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VOL. 2, ISSUE 1 (2026)
Gray literature in research: Definitions, utility, challenges, and Indian perspectives
Authors
Sanjay Bhausaheb Jogdand
Abstract
Gray literature refers to research outputs and information that are
produced outside traditional commercial publishing and distribution channels.
These materials include government and institutional reports, policy documents,
theses and dissertations, conference proceedings, working papers, technical
notes, and research produced by non-governmental organizations. Gray literature
plays a crucial role in academic and applied research by providing timely,
context-specific, and policy-relevant information that may not be available in
peer-reviewed journals. Despite its importance, gray literature poses
challenges related to discoverability, quality assessment, long-term
preservation, and standardized citation. This paper critically examines the
concept of gray literature, its definitions and typologies, its utility in
research, challenges associated with its use, and Indian perspectives with
special reference to social sciences, library and information science research.
The paper also highlights citation patterns, digital initiatives in India, and
suggests strategies to improve the integration of gray literature into
scholarly communication.
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Pages:99-100
How to cite this article:
Sanjay Bhausaheb Jogdand "Gray literature in research: Definitions, utility, challenges, and Indian perspectives". International Journal of Applied Review
, Vol 2, Issue 1, 2026, Pages 99-100
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