There are several reasons why the industrial growth rate has lagged behind the overall growth of GDP in the post-reform period:

1. Lack of infrastructure: Insufficient infrastructure, such as inadequate transportation networks, power supply, and communication systems, hampers industrial growth. Without proper infrastructure, industries face challenges in production, distribution, and accessing markets.

2. Regulatory hurdles: Cumbersome regulations, bureaucratic red tape, and complex procedures hinder industrial growth. Delays in obtaining permits, licenses, and clearances create a hostile business environment and discourage investment in the industrial sector.

3. Inadequate access to financing: Lack of access to affordable financing options limits the expansion and modernization of industries. High interest rates and strict lending criteria make it difficult for small and medium-sized industries to secure the necessary funds for growth.

4. Skill gap and labor market challenges: The industrial sector requires a skilled workforce to drive growth and innovation. However, the education system may not be producing enough workers with the necessary technical skills, and there is often a mismatch between the skills demanded by industries and those possessed by the labor force.

5. Neglected research and development: Insufficient investment in research and development activities leaves industries less competitive and limits their ability to innovate. Without ongoing research and development efforts, industries may struggle to keep up with technological advancements and market demands.

Recent changes in the Industrial Policy have the potential to address some of these challenges and increase the industrial growth rate. For example:

1. Infrastructure development: The government's focus on improving infrastructure, through initiatives such as the construction of roads, ports, and power plants, can facilitate industrial growth by reducing logistical bottlenecks and improving connectivity.

2. Ease of doing business reforms: Streamlining regulatory processes, simplifying licensing procedures, and reducing bureaucratic barriers can attract investments and create a more conducive environment for industrial development.

3. Financial incentives and support: The Industrial Policy may introduce financial incentives, subsidies, or loan programs tailored to the needs of industrial sectors. This can enable industries to access affordable financing and encourage investment in new technologies and capacity expansion.

4. Skill development initiatives: The policy may emphasize skill development programs to bridge the existing skill gap in the labor market. By enhancing the quality and relevance of technical education and vocational training, industries can gain access to a more skilled workforce.

5. Research and development promotion: Encouraging industries to invest in research and development activities by providing tax incentives, grants, or partnerships with academic institutions can enhance their technological capabilities and competitiveness.

While these recent changes in Industrial Policy are promising, their effectiveness depends on proper implementation, monitoring, and evaluation. Consistent policy support and a conducive business environment are essential for sustaining industrial growth and ensuring its contribution to overall economic development.

Reasons for Lagging Industrial Growth in Post-Reform India:

The statement "Industrial growth rate has lagged behind in the overall growth of Gross-Domestic-Product (GDP) in the post-reform period" is generally accurate. Here are some key reasons:

1. Structural Shift:

• Focus on Services: The post-reform period witnessed a significant shift towards the services sector. This is driven by factors like IT boom, increased outsourcing, and globalization.
• Limited Manufacturing: The manufacturing sector, while crucial, has seen relatively slower growth compared to services. This is partly due to structural bottlenecks and lack of focus.

2. Policy Challenges:

• Complex Regulations: India's industrial landscape is marked by complex regulations and bureaucratic hurdles, affecting ease of doing business and investment.
• Lack of Infrastructure: Inadequate infrastructure, including power, transportation, and logistics, hinders industrial competitiveness.
• Financial Constraints: Access to affordable credit remains a challenge for many industries, particularly MSMEs.

3. Global Competition:

• Rise of China: China's emergence as a manufacturing powerhouse has impacted India's competitiveness in global markets.
• Technological Disruption: Rapid technological advancements necessitate constant adaptation and innovation in the manufacturing sector.

4. Domestic Factors:

• Low Productivity: Productivity growth in Indian industries has been slow compared to global standards, impacting competitiveness.
• Skill Gap: A shortage of skilled labor, particularly in technical and specialized fields, restricts industrial growth potential.

5. Policy Inconsistency:

• Lack of Long-term Vision: Industrial policies have often lacked a long-term vision and consistency, making it difficult for industries to plan and invest strategically.

Recent Changes in Industrial Policy and Their Potential Impact:

The Indian government has implemented various changes in recent years to boost industrial growth. Some notable policies and their potential impact:

• Make in India: This initiative aims to attract foreign investment, promote domestic manufacturing, and create jobs. It has seen some success, but challenges remain in overcoming infrastructure constraints and bureaucratic hurdles.
• Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme: This scheme provides financial incentives to companies investing in specific sectors like electronics, pharmaceuticals, and textiles. It is expected to boost domestic production and exports.
• Focus on Infrastructure Development: Investments in infrastructure, including roads, railways, and ports, are crucial for industrial growth. The government's focus on infrastructure development is a positive step.
• Ease of Doing Business Reforms: Simplification of regulatory processes, digitization, and online services are making it easier to start and operate businesses in India.
• Skill Development Programs: Initiatives to improve vocational training and skill development are crucial to address the labor shortage and enhance productivity.
• Promoting Innovation & Technology: Government initiatives focusing on research and development, technology adoption, and fostering innovation are essential for driving growth in the long run.

Potential Impact:

These recent changes in industrial policy have the potential to positively impact industrial growth. However, the success of these initiatives depends on effective implementation, continued policy consistency, and addressing the underlying structural challenges. A sustained and holistic approach is required to realize the full potential of these reforms and boost industrial growth in India.

Challenges Remain:

Despite these efforts, significant challenges remain. These include:

• Persistence of Bureaucratic Hurdles: Despite reforms, bureaucratic red tape and procedural delays continue to hinder businesses.
• Limited Access to Finance: SMEs and start-ups still face difficulty accessing affordable credit, limiting their growth potential.
• Lack of Skilled Workforce: The skills gap remains a pressing issue, hindering technological advancements and productivity gains.

Conclusion:

While recent industrial policy reforms hold promise, success hinges on their effective implementation, addressing structural challenges, and creating a conducive business environment. A sustained focus on infrastructure development, skill development, and easing regulatory hurdles is crucial for realizing the potential of these reforms and achieving a sustained increase in industrial growth in India.

The industrial growth rate in India has indeed lagged behind the overall growth of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in the post-reform period (1991-present). Some reasons contributing to this phenomenon are:

1. Liberalization without complementary policies: The 1991 economic reforms focused on liberalization, privatization, and globalization, but lacked complementary policies to support industrial growth, such as investment in infrastructure, skills development, and research and development.
2. Infrastructure bottlenecks: Inadequate infrastructure, including power, transportation, and communication networks, has hindered industrial growth. The shortage of quality infrastructure has increased the cost of doing business, making Indian industries less competitive.
3. Dependence on imported technology: Indian industries have relied heavily on imported technology, which has limited the development of domestic capabilities and innovation.
4. Inefficient labor laws and regulations: Complex labor laws and regulations have discouraged investment in labor-intensive industries, such as textiles and manufacturing.
5. High interest rates and financing costs: High interest rates and financing costs have made it difficult for industries to access affordable credit, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
6. Insufficient investment in R&D: India's investment in research and development (R&D) has been meager, which has limited the development of new technologies and innovative products.
7. Appreciation of the rupee: The appreciation of the Indian rupee has made exports more expensive, negatively impacting the competitiveness of Indian industries in the global market.
8. Lack of clustering and industrial corridors: The absence of well-planned industrial clusters and corridors has hindered the development of industries, as it has limited the availability of specialized infrastructure, skilled labor, and supply chain networks.

Recent changes in industrial policy aim to address these challenges and increase the industrial growth rate. Some key initiatives include:

1. Make in India: Launched in 2014, this initiative aims to promote India as a global manufacturing hub by providing a favorable business environment, improving infrastructure, and enhancing investment in R&D.
2. Industrial Corridors: The government has identified several industrial corridors, such as the Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor (DMIC) and the Chennai-Bengaluru Industrial Corridor (CBIC), which will be developed with world-class infrastructure and facilities.
3. Ease of Doing Business: The government has introduced various reforms to simplify regulations, reduce bureaucratic hurdles, and improve the overall business environment.
4. Investment in Infrastructure: The government has increased investment in infrastructure development, including roads, ports, airports, and railways, to improve connectivity and reduce logistics costs.
5. Skill Development: Initiatives like the National Skill Development Mission and the Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) aim to enhance the skills of the workforce and address labor shortages.
6. R&D and Innovation: The government has increased funding for R&D initiatives, such as the Science and Engineering Research Board (SERB) and the Department of Science and Technology (DST), to encourage innovation and entrepreneurship.

While these initiatives are steps in the right direction, their effectiveness in increasing the industrial growth rate will depend on their successful implementation, monitoring, and evaluation. The government must also address the ongoing challenges, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, to ensure a sustained recovery and growth of the industrial sector.