(17-30)Geotechnical Research in India - Scenario up to 2025.pdf
samirsinhparmar
0 views
15 slides
Oct 15, 2025
Slide 1 of 15
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
About This Presentation
Geotechnical Research in India; geotechnical research areas; meaningless research in geotechnical engineering; future research scope in geotechnical engineering; role of instrumentation in geotechnical research; software for geotechnical research; difficulties in geotechnical research; research gaps...
Slide Content
17 © MAT Journals 2025. All Rights Reserved
Journal of Geotechnical Studies
Vol. 10, Issue 3 (September – December, 2025) pp: (17-30)
e-ISSN: 2581-9763
DOI: https://doi.org/10.46610/JoGS.2025.v010i03.003
The Current Landscape of Geotechnical Research in
India: Trends, Challenges, and Future Directions
Samirsinh P. Parmar
*
Associate Professor, Department of Civil Engineering, Faculty of Technology, Dharmasinh Desai University,
Nadiad, Gujarat, India
*
Corresponding Author: [email protected]
Received Date: September 24, 2025; Published Date: October 14, 2025
Abstract
This study provides a comprehensive, expert-level analysis of the current scenario of geotechnical
research in India. It examines the historical trajectory, present-day ecosystem, and emerging trends,
while critically assessing the systemic challenges that hinder its progress. The analysis is based on a
synthesis of available data from academic institutions, scholarly publications, patent records, and
expert insights from the field. It incorporates quantitative metrics and qualitative observations to
present a holistic view.
The Indian geotechnical research landscape is characterized by a paradox of quantitative growth
and qualitative stagnation. While academic capacity and overall intellectual property generation are
expanding, these gains are often undermined by a persistent disconnect between academic and
industry objectives, an overreliance on invalidated computational methods, and systemic issues
related to funding, infrastructure, and a “publish or perish” culture. The proliferation of
“meaningless” research topics further exacerbates this gap. The study concludes that for Indian
geotechnical research to achieve global competitiveness and practical relevance, a strategic pivot is
necessary. This requires a concerted effort to institutionalize quality, foster genuine industry-
academia partnerships, prioritize real-world problem-solving over theoretical abstractions, and
leverage emerging technologies with a critical, data-driven mindset.
Keywords- Constitutive modelling, Foundation engineering, Geotechnical engineering, IS codes,
Instrumentation, Patents, Publication challenges, Research in India, Slope stability, Soil mechanics
List of Abbreviations
Abbreviation Full Form
APCs Article Processing Charges
BIS Bureau of Indian Standards
CBRI Central Building Research Institute
CEG Consulting Engineers Group (India)
CENGRS Consulting Engineers and Research Services
CRRI Central Road Research Institute
CSIR Council of Scientific and Industrial Research
DST Department of Science and Technology
FEM Finite Element Method
GSI Geological Survey of India
IGJ Indian Geotechnical Journal
Journal of Geotechnical Studies
Vol. 10, Issue 3 (September – December, 2025) pp: (17-30)
e-ISSN: 2581-9763
DOI: https://doi.org/10.46610/JoGS.2025.v010i03.003
The Current Landscape of Geotechnical Research in
India: Trends, Challenges, and Future Directions
Samirsinh P. Parmar
*
Associate Professor, Department of Civil Engineering, Faculty of Technology, Dharmasinh Desai University,
Nadiad, Gujarat, India
*
Corresponding Author: [email protected]
Received Date: September 24, 2025; Published Date: October 14, 2025
Abstract
This study provides a comprehensive, expert-level analysis of the current scenario of geotechnical
research in India. It examines the historical trajectory, present-day ecosystem, and emerging trends,
while critically assessing the systemic challenges that hinder its progress. The analysis is based on a
synthesis of available data from academic institutions, scholarly publications, patent records, and
expert insights from the field. It incorporates quantitative metrics and qualitative observations to
present a holistic view.
The Indian geotechnical research landscape is characterized by a paradox of quantitative growth
and qualitative stagnation. While academic capacity and overall intellectual property generation are
expanding, these gains are often undermined by a persistent disconnect between academic and
industry objectives, an overreliance on invalidated computational methods, and systemic issues
related to funding, infrastructure, and a “publish or perish” culture. The proliferation of
“meaningless” research topics further exacerbates this gap. The study concludes that for Indian
geotechnical research to achieve global competitiveness and practical relevance, a strategic pivot is
necessary. This requires a concerted effort to institutionalize quality, foster genuine industry-
academia partnerships, prioritize real-world problem-solving over theoretical abstractions, and
leverage emerging technologies with a critical, data-driven mindset.
Keywords- Constitutive modelling, Foundation engineering, Geotechnical engineering, IS codes,
Instrumentation, Patents, Publication challenges, Research in India, Slope stability, Soil mechanics
List of Abbreviations
Abbreviation Full Form
APCs Article Processing Charges
BIS Bureau of Indian Standards
CBRI Central Building Research Institute
CEG Consulting Engineers Group (India)
CENGRS Consulting Engineers and Research Services
CRRI Central Road Research Institute
CSIR Council of Scientific and Industrial Research
DST Department of Science and Technology
FEM Finite Element Method
GSI Geological Survey of India
IGJ Indian Geotechnical Journal
The Current Landscape of Geotechnical Research in India Samirsinh P. Parmar
18 © MAT Journals 2025. All Rights Reserved
IS Indian Standards
MoRTH Ministry of Road Transport and Highways
NIT National Institute of Technology
R&D Research and Development
INTRODUCTION
Evolution of Geotechnical Engineering and
the Indian Context
Geotechnical engineering, a vital branch of civil
engineering, focuses on understanding soil and
rock behaviour and their interactions with
foundations. The field evolved from empirical,
experience-based methods into a data-driven
science with modern tools and advanced
modelling techniques [1]. Karl Terzaghi’s early
theories of consolidation and the development of
laboratory methods such as triaxial and
odometer tests laid the scientific foundation for
soil mechanics. Subsequent developments in
computational modelling including finite
element and limit equilibrium methods
revolutionized geotechnical analysis [2], [3].
In the Indian context, geotechnical
engineering is crucial for sustainable
infrastructure and disaster resilience amid rapid
urbanization. However, the national research
ecosystem faces challenges related to quality,
validation, and industry relevance [4]. While
premier institutions such as IITs, NITs, and
CSIR laboratories [5] lead experimental and
numerical studies, there remains a significant
gap between academic research and field
applicability. This paper aims to critically
evaluate whether the Indian geotechnical
research community has fully transitioned to
data-driven, validated practices or continues to
rely on oversimplified computational
assumptions.
Scope and Objectives of the Study
The primary objective of this study is to provide
a detailed, expert-level analysis of geotechnical
research in India. This goes beyond a simple
summary to offer a nuanced perspective on the
field’s strengths and weaknesses. The key areas
of investigation include:
A quantitative and qualitative analysis of the
academic ecosystem, including the capacity
of postgraduate and Ph.D. programs.
An examination of dominant research trends
and their historical context.
A critical assessment of the influence of
modern technology, particularly software, on
research quality and practice.
An analysis of innovation metrics, including
scholarly publications and patents.
A comprehensive identification of the
systemic challenges and administrative
barriers that hinder research progression.
This study is designed for an audience of
academic researchers, industry professionals,
and policymakers who require a thorough
understanding of the subject to make informed
decisions and drive meaningful change.
THE INDIAN GEOTECHNICAL
RESEARCH ECOSYSTEM
Academic Capacity: A Quantitative
Overview
The foundation of any research landscape is its
academic capacity, which in India is robust and
continually expanding. Numerous premier
institutions, including the Indian Institutes of
Technology (IITs) and National Institutes of
Technology (NITs), along with state universities
and private colleges, offer Postgraduate (PG)
and Ph.D. programs in Geotechnical
Engineering [6].
At the postgraduate level, the number of
seats is substantial. Most IITs offer
approximately 20 to 30 seats per year, leading to
an estimated total of 300 to 450 seats annually
across the approximately 15 IITs offering this
specialization. Similarly, with around 10 to 12
NITs offering the specialization and each
typically providing 10 to 20 seats, the total for
these institutions is an estimated 100 to 240
seats annually [7]. This is supplemented by
many state and private institutions, which
contribute an additional 150 to 200 seats,
18 © MAT Journals 2025. All Rights Reserved
IS Indian Standards
MoRTH Ministry of Road Transport and Highways
NIT National Institute of Technology
R&D Research and Development
INTRODUCTION
Evolution of Geotechnical Engineering and
the Indian Context
Geotechnical engineering, a vital branch of civil
engineering, focuses on understanding soil and
rock behaviour and their interactions with
foundations. The field evolved from empirical,
experience-based methods into a data-driven
science with modern tools and advanced
modelling techniques [1]. Karl Terzaghi’s early
theories of consolidation and the development of
laboratory methods such as triaxial and
odometer tests laid the scientific foundation for
soil mechanics. Subsequent developments in
computational modelling including finite
element and limit equilibrium methods
revolutionized geotechnical analysis [2], [3].
In the Indian context, geotechnical
engineering is crucial for sustainable
infrastructure and disaster resilience amid rapid
urbanization. However, the national research
ecosystem faces challenges related to quality,
validation, and industry relevance [4]. While
premier institutions such as IITs, NITs, and
CSIR laboratories [5] lead experimental and
numerical studies, there remains a significant
gap between academic research and field
applicability. This paper aims to critically
evaluate whether the Indian geotechnical
research community has fully transitioned to
data-driven, validated practices or continues to
rely on oversimplified computational
assumptions.
Scope and Objectives of the Study
The primary objective of this study is to provide
a detailed, expert-level analysis of geotechnical
research in India. This goes beyond a simple
summary to offer a nuanced perspective on the
field’s strengths and weaknesses. The key areas
of investigation include:
A quantitative and qualitative analysis of the
academic ecosystem, including the capacity
of postgraduate and Ph.D. programs.
An examination of dominant research trends
and their historical context.
A critical assessment of the influence of
modern technology, particularly software, on
research quality and practice.
An analysis of innovation metrics, including
scholarly publications and patents.
A comprehensive identification of the
systemic challenges and administrative
barriers that hinder research progression.
This study is designed for an audience of
academic researchers, industry professionals,
and policymakers who require a thorough
understanding of the subject to make informed
decisions and drive meaningful change.
THE INDIAN GEOTECHNICAL
RESEARCH ECOSYSTEM
Academic Capacity: A Quantitative
Overview
The foundation of any research landscape is its
academic capacity, which in India is robust and
continually expanding. Numerous premier
institutions, including the Indian Institutes of
Technology (IITs) and National Institutes of
Technology (NITs), along with state universities
and private colleges, offer Postgraduate (PG)
and Ph.D. programs in Geotechnical
Engineering [6].
At the postgraduate level, the number of
seats is substantial. Most IITs offer
approximately 20 to 30 seats per year, leading to
an estimated total of 300 to 450 seats annually
across the approximately 15 IITs offering this
specialization. Similarly, with around 10 to 12
NITs offering the specialization and each
typically providing 10 to 20 seats, the total for
these institutions is an estimated 100 to 240
seats annually [7]. This is supplemented by
many state and private institutions, which
contribute an additional 150 to 200 seats,
J of Geot. Stu. Vol. 10, Issue 3
19 © MAT Journals 2025. All Rights Reserved
bringing the total estimated annual PG seats to
between 550 and 900.
For Ph.D. programs, the capacity is more
selective, reflecting the specialized nature of
doctoral research. IITs and NITs collectively
offer approximately 100 to 150 seats per year,
with individual institutes providing around 5 to
10 seats. An additional 50 to 100 seats are
contributed by state and private universities,
resulting in a total estimated Ph.D. capacity of
150 to 250 seats annually. When combining
both PG and Ph.D. programs, the total number
of seats available in geotechnical engineering is
approximately 700 to 1150 annually. The
following (Table 1) summarizes the estimated
academic capacity [8].
Table 1: Academic contribution in geotechnical research.
Institution Type M. Tech/M.E (PG) Seats per Year Ph.D. Seats per Year
Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) 300-450 100-150
National Institutes of Technology (NITs) 100-240 100-120
Other State/Private Institutions 150-200 50-100
Total Estimated Seats 550-900 250-350
*Data produced by the total seats of geotechnical engineering M. Tech and Ph.D. degrees in various
institutions across India.
This considerable quantitative growth in
academic seats demonstrates a strong national
commitment to developing human capital in the
field. However, the sheer volume of individuals
entering the research pipeline creates a specific
set of pressures. Without a corresponding focus
on the quality of output, this growth can
contribute to a "publish or perish" culture, where
researchers are incentivized to produce a high
volume of lower-impact work to meet academic
requirements. This paradox of quantitative
expansion and potential qualitative stagnation is
a central theme that will be explored in
subsequent sections of this study [9].
Driving Forces for Geotechnical Research in
India
The growth of geotechnical engineering
research in India is strongly shaped by the
country’s unique soil conditions, diverse
climatic zones, rapid urbanization, and
expanding infrastructure demands. The driving
forces behind this research can be broadly
categorized according to the type of researchers
contributing to the field (Fig. 1).
Figure 1: Driving force for geotechnical research.
Academic Researchers
Universities and premier institutions such as the
IITs, NITs, and state engineering colleges form
the backbone of geotechnical research in India.
Professors, along with M. Tech. and Ph.D.
19 © MAT Journals 2025. All Rights Reserved
bringing the total estimated annual PG seats to
between 550 and 900.
For Ph.D. programs, the capacity is more
selective, reflecting the specialized nature of
doctoral research. IITs and NITs collectively
offer approximately 100 to 150 seats per year,
with individual institutes providing around 5 to
10 seats. An additional 50 to 100 seats are
contributed by state and private universities,
resulting in a total estimated Ph.D. capacity of
150 to 250 seats annually. When combining
both PG and Ph.D. programs, the total number
of seats available in geotechnical engineering is
approximately 700 to 1150 annually. The
following (Table 1) summarizes the estimated
academic capacity [8].
Table 1: Academic contribution in geotechnical research.
Institution Type M. Tech/M.E (PG) Seats per Year Ph.D. Seats per Year
Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) 300-450 100-150
National Institutes of Technology (NITs) 100-240 100-120
Other State/Private Institutions 150-200 50-100
Total Estimated Seats 550-900 250-350
*Data produced by the total seats of geotechnical engineering M. Tech and Ph.D. degrees in various
institutions across India.
This considerable quantitative growth in
academic seats demonstrates a strong national
commitment to developing human capital in the
field. However, the sheer volume of individuals
entering the research pipeline creates a specific
set of pressures. Without a corresponding focus
on the quality of output, this growth can
contribute to a "publish or perish" culture, where
researchers are incentivized to produce a high
volume of lower-impact work to meet academic
requirements. This paradox of quantitative
expansion and potential qualitative stagnation is
a central theme that will be explored in
subsequent sections of this study [9].
Driving Forces for Geotechnical Research in
India
The growth of geotechnical engineering
research in India is strongly shaped by the
country’s unique soil conditions, diverse
climatic zones, rapid urbanization, and
expanding infrastructure demands. The driving
forces behind this research can be broadly
categorized according to the type of researchers
contributing to the field (Fig. 1).
Figure 1: Driving force for geotechnical research.
Academic Researchers
Universities and premier institutions such as the
IITs, NITs, and state engineering colleges form
the backbone of geotechnical research in India.
Professors, along with M. Tech. and Ph.D.
The Current Landscape of Geotechnical Research in India Samirsinh P. Parmar
20 © MAT Journals 2025. All Rights Reserved
scholars, drive innovation by addressing
fundamental soil behaviour, constitutive
modelling, and advanced testing methods. Their
research is often motivated by the dual need to
contribute to international scientific knowledge
and to develop context-specific solutions for
India’s complex soils, such as expansive clays in
central India, marine clays along coastal belts,
and seismic-prone Himalayan soils. Academic
research is also guided by funding from national
agencies such as DST, CSIR, and MoRTH [10],
[11].
Industrial Research
Indian industry particularly infrastructure,
transportation, irrigation, and energy sectors
requires problem-driven geotechnical solutions.
Research arises from practical needs such as
designing deep foundations for metro rail
systems, stabilizing slopes in hydropower
projects, improving soft soils for highways, and
mitigating settlement in industrial plants. Private
and public sector organizations often collaborate
with academic institutions to develop applied
solutions, with the focus on cost-effectiveness,
safety, and adaptability to Indian conditions
[12].
Laboratory Research
Specialized laboratories in India (e.g., CRRI,
CBRI, GSI, and CWPRS) conduct continuous
experimental work on soil characterization,
model testing, and material innovation. Much of
this research is outcome-based, such as
understanding the performance of natural fiber
geotextiles, nanomaterial-treated soils, or bio-
enzymes for ground improvement [13].
Laboratory research not only validates
theoretical models but also generates
generalized conclusions that can be adapted to
different soil strata across the country.
Practitioner-driven Research
Practicing geotechnical engineers and
consultants often encounter field challenges that
deviate from textbook solutions. Difficulties
such as unexpected soil behaviour during pile
installation, excessive settlement in
embankments, or slope failures during monsoon
seasons lead practitioners to innovate and
document their findings. Such practice-oriented
research is critical in bridging the gap between
laboratory studies and field realities, providing
valuable case histories that inform codes,
standards, and future design practices [14].
Historical Development and Thematic
Distribution
The evolution of geotechnical research in India,
mirroring global trends, can be divided into
three distinct phases. The period preceding the
20th century was largely empirical,
characterized by construction activities based on
trial and error. While ancient civilizations in
India and elsewhere demonstrated expertise in
building infrastructure, they lacked a formal,
scientific understanding of soil mechanics. This
changed in the 20th century with the birth of soil
mechanics as a scientific discipline, heavily
influenced by the pioneering work of Karl
Terzaghi. This era introduced formal laboratory
testing methods and analytical theories,
transitioning the field from an art to a science.
The late 20th century saw the third phase: the
integration of computer-aided design, where
numerical methods like the finite element
method (FEM) became standard tools for
solving complex problems [15], [16].
Today’s research is characterized by an
interdisciplinary approach that integrates
advancements from materials science,
environmental engineering, and computational
tools. The distribution of research topics reveals
a strong emphasis on foundational areas.
Approximately 25 to 30% of research focuses
on soil mechanics and behaviour, while
foundation engineering accounts for 20 to 25%.
Slope stability and landslide studies, along with
retaining structures and earthworks, each
constitute about 10 to 15% of the research
output [17].
The following (Table 2) provides a
detailed breakdown of the thematic distribution
of research contributions.
20 © MAT Journals 2025. All Rights Reserved
scholars, drive innovation by addressing
fundamental soil behaviour, constitutive
modelling, and advanced testing methods. Their
research is often motivated by the dual need to
contribute to international scientific knowledge
and to develop context-specific solutions for
India’s complex soils, such as expansive clays in
central India, marine clays along coastal belts,
and seismic-prone Himalayan soils. Academic
research is also guided by funding from national
agencies such as DST, CSIR, and MoRTH [10],
[11].
Industrial Research
Indian industry particularly infrastructure,
transportation, irrigation, and energy sectors
requires problem-driven geotechnical solutions.
Research arises from practical needs such as
designing deep foundations for metro rail
systems, stabilizing slopes in hydropower
projects, improving soft soils for highways, and
mitigating settlement in industrial plants. Private
and public sector organizations often collaborate
with academic institutions to develop applied
solutions, with the focus on cost-effectiveness,
safety, and adaptability to Indian conditions
[12].
Laboratory Research
Specialized laboratories in India (e.g., CRRI,
CBRI, GSI, and CWPRS) conduct continuous
experimental work on soil characterization,
model testing, and material innovation. Much of
this research is outcome-based, such as
understanding the performance of natural fiber
geotextiles, nanomaterial-treated soils, or bio-
enzymes for ground improvement [13].
Laboratory research not only validates
theoretical models but also generates
generalized conclusions that can be adapted to
different soil strata across the country.
Practitioner-driven Research
Practicing geotechnical engineers and
consultants often encounter field challenges that
deviate from textbook solutions. Difficulties
such as unexpected soil behaviour during pile
installation, excessive settlement in
embankments, or slope failures during monsoon
seasons lead practitioners to innovate and
document their findings. Such practice-oriented
research is critical in bridging the gap between
laboratory studies and field realities, providing
valuable case histories that inform codes,
standards, and future design practices [14].
Historical Development and Thematic
Distribution
The evolution of geotechnical research in India,
mirroring global trends, can be divided into
three distinct phases. The period preceding the
20th century was largely empirical,
characterized by construction activities based on
trial and error. While ancient civilizations in
India and elsewhere demonstrated expertise in
building infrastructure, they lacked a formal,
scientific understanding of soil mechanics. This
changed in the 20th century with the birth of soil
mechanics as a scientific discipline, heavily
influenced by the pioneering work of Karl
Terzaghi. This era introduced formal laboratory
testing methods and analytical theories,
transitioning the field from an art to a science.
The late 20th century saw the third phase: the
integration of computer-aided design, where
numerical methods like the finite element
method (FEM) became standard tools for
solving complex problems [15], [16].
Today’s research is characterized by an
interdisciplinary approach that integrates
advancements from materials science,
environmental engineering, and computational
tools. The distribution of research topics reveals
a strong emphasis on foundational areas.
Approximately 25 to 30% of research focuses
on soil mechanics and behaviour, while
foundation engineering accounts for 20 to 25%.
Slope stability and landslide studies, along with
retaining structures and earthworks, each
constitute about 10 to 15% of the research
output [17].
The following (Table 2) provides a
detailed breakdown of the thematic distribution
of research contributions.
J of Geot. Stu. Vol. 10, Issue 3
21 © MAT Journals 2025. All Rights Reserved
Table 2: Classification of geotechnical research fields.
Category Approximate Percentage
Soil Mechanics and Behaviour 25–30%
Foundation Engineering 20–25%
Slope Stability and Landslides 10–15%
Retaining Structures and Earthworks 10–15%
Geotechnical Earthquake Engineering 5–10%
Geosynthetics and Ground Improvement 5–10%
Site Characterization and Monitoring 5–10%
Soil-structure Interaction 5–10%
Environmental Geotechnics 3–5%
Unsaturated Soil Mechanics 2–3%
*data produced by the author.
This distribution highlights a clear focus
on core, traditional topics that are critical for
conventional infrastructure projects. However, it
also points to a lower research priority for
emerging and interdisciplinary fields such as
environmental geotechnics and unsaturated soil
mechanics. The lower percentages in these areas
suggest that while the academic foundation in
India is strong, it may not yet be at the cutting
edge of globally relevant, interdisciplinary
domains. This could be a result of institutional
inertia, limited funding for complex, niche
areas, or a lack of trained experts, representing a
significant area for future growth [18], [19].
THE ROLE OF TECHNOLOGY AND
STANDARDIZATION IN MODERN
RESEARCH
Software-based Research: Applications,
Efficacy, and Pitfalls
The advent of powerful computational tools has
fundamentally reshaped geotechnical research.
Software like PLAXIS, FLAC, and Z-Soil
allows researchers to simulate complex
problems such as landslides, liquefaction, and
foundation settlements with increasing accuracy.
The process of software-based research typically
involves problem definition and data collection,
followed by the selection and modelling of a
problem within the chosen software.
Simulations are then run to predict soil
behaviour, and the results are interpreted, often
through parametric studies and visual
representations of stress and displacement.
Software-based research offers
significant advantages, including the ability to
solve complex problems that are challenging to
model analytically, perform efficient parametric
studies, and visualize complex soil-structure
interactions. These simulations are also far more
cost-effective than large-scale physical
experiments and can handle dynamic and
extreme conditions that are difficult to replicate
in a laboratory [20].
However, the proliferation of software
has also introduced a significant pitfall: the
overreliance on numerical models without
sufficient validation with real-world data. The
ease of running simulations can lead to a
fundamental disconnect between the idealized
world of the computer model and the complex,
unpredictable reality of a construction site.
Software models often make simplifying
assumptions (e.g., linear elasticity, isotropy) that
may not accurately reflect the highly variable
and nonlinear behaviour of natural soils,
particularly in heterogeneous conditions. The
accuracy of any simulation is fundamentally
dependent on the quality of the input data, and
without rigorous, site-specific geotechnical
investigations, the results may be misleading
and lack practical value. This creates a ―Garbage
In, Garbage Out‖ scenario, where sophisticated
modelling is applied to invalidated parameters,
resulting in conclusions that have limited real-
world applicability. This issue is a major
limitation that necessitates a move toward
comprehensive prototype and field validation to
verify software results.
A Comparative Analysis of Geotechnical
Software
The following (Table 3) provides a
comparative analysis of widely used
geotechnical software, illustrating the diversity
of computational tools available to researchers
and practitioners.
21 © MAT Journals 2025. All Rights Reserved
Table 2: Classification of geotechnical research fields.
Category Approximate Percentage
Soil Mechanics and Behaviour 25–30%
Foundation Engineering 20–25%
Slope Stability and Landslides 10–15%
Retaining Structures and Earthworks 10–15%
Geotechnical Earthquake Engineering 5–10%
Geosynthetics and Ground Improvement 5–10%
Site Characterization and Monitoring 5–10%
Soil-structure Interaction 5–10%
Environmental Geotechnics 3–5%
Unsaturated Soil Mechanics 2–3%
*data produced by the author.
This distribution highlights a clear focus
on core, traditional topics that are critical for
conventional infrastructure projects. However, it
also points to a lower research priority for
emerging and interdisciplinary fields such as
environmental geotechnics and unsaturated soil
mechanics. The lower percentages in these areas
suggest that while the academic foundation in
India is strong, it may not yet be at the cutting
edge of globally relevant, interdisciplinary
domains. This could be a result of institutional
inertia, limited funding for complex, niche
areas, or a lack of trained experts, representing a
significant area for future growth [18], [19].
THE ROLE OF TECHNOLOGY AND
STANDARDIZATION IN MODERN
RESEARCH
Software-based Research: Applications,
Efficacy, and Pitfalls
The advent of powerful computational tools has
fundamentally reshaped geotechnical research.
Software like PLAXIS, FLAC, and Z-Soil
allows researchers to simulate complex
problems such as landslides, liquefaction, and
foundation settlements with increasing accuracy.
The process of software-based research typically
involves problem definition and data collection,
followed by the selection and modelling of a
problem within the chosen software.
Simulations are then run to predict soil
behaviour, and the results are interpreted, often
through parametric studies and visual
representations of stress and displacement.
Software-based research offers
significant advantages, including the ability to
solve complex problems that are challenging to
model analytically, perform efficient parametric
studies, and visualize complex soil-structure
interactions. These simulations are also far more
cost-effective than large-scale physical
experiments and can handle dynamic and
extreme conditions that are difficult to replicate
in a laboratory [20].
However, the proliferation of software
has also introduced a significant pitfall: the
overreliance on numerical models without
sufficient validation with real-world data. The
ease of running simulations can lead to a
fundamental disconnect between the idealized
world of the computer model and the complex,
unpredictable reality of a construction site.
Software models often make simplifying
assumptions (e.g., linear elasticity, isotropy) that
may not accurately reflect the highly variable
and nonlinear behaviour of natural soils,
particularly in heterogeneous conditions. The
accuracy of any simulation is fundamentally
dependent on the quality of the input data, and
without rigorous, site-specific geotechnical
investigations, the results may be misleading
and lack practical value. This creates a ―Garbage
In, Garbage Out‖ scenario, where sophisticated
modelling is applied to invalidated parameters,
resulting in conclusions that have limited real-
world applicability. This issue is a major
limitation that necessitates a move toward
comprehensive prototype and field validation to
verify software results.
A Comparative Analysis of Geotechnical
Software
The following (Table 3) provides a
comparative analysis of widely used
geotechnical software, illustrating the diversity
of computational tools available to researchers
and practitioners.
The Current Landscape of Geotechnical Research in India Samirsinh P. Parmar
22 © MAT Journals 2025. All Rights Reserved
Table 3: Details of historical use of software by the Indian geotechnical community.
Software Year of Origin Applications Advantages Limitations
GeoStudio 1977
Slope stability,
groundwater seepage,
stress-deformation
analysis
Comprehensive suite,
user-friendly interface,
strong graphical
presentation
Limited to 2D
modelling, lacks
advanced soil
models
GRLWEAP 1980
Pile driving simulation
and dynamic pile
analysis
Provides insight into pile
driving dynamics,
integrates with field data
Specific to pile
driving, it is not a
versatile tool for
other analyses
Oasys
Slope
1980s
Simple limit
equilibrium analysis for
slope stability
User-friendly and quick,
lightweight for simple
projects
Only suitable for
basic slope stability,
lacks advanced
analysis features
FLAC 1986
Soil, rock, and
structural interaction,
slope stability, tunnel
design
Effective for static and
dynamic analysis, handles
large deformations
Complex interface,
requires advanced
knowledge and
training
LPILE 1986
Lateral load analysis for
deep foundations
Simple and effective for
pile analysis, efficient
computation
Limited to lateral
loading, 1D analysis
only
PLAXIS
2D
1987
2D finite element
analysis for
geotechnical problems
Accurate deformation and
stress analysis, a large
variety of soil models
Limited to 2D
analysis, costly for
academic use
PLAXIS
3D
1998
3D finite element
analysis for soil-
structure interaction,
tunnelling
3D capabilities, precise
modelling of complex
geometry
High computational
resources required,
expensive
TALREN 1990s
Limit equilibrium
analysis for slope
stability
Simple interface, supports
reinforced structures
Limited to 2D
analysis, lacks
detailed deformation
analysis
RS2
(Rocscience
Phase2)
1996
Finite element analysis
for soil and rock
mechanics, slope
stability
Advanced analysis
integrates stress analysis
and groundwater flow
Steep learning curve,
requires significant
computational
resources
Rocscience
Slide
1996
2D slope stability using
the limit equilibrium
method
Easy-to-use interface,
integrates groundwater and
support systems
Limited to 2D
analysis, no
deformation analysis
capabilities
SWEDGE 1999
3D rock slope stability
using wedge failure
models
Effective for wedge
analysis, provides 3D
visualization
Limited to rock
slopes and specific
wedge failure modes
DeepEX 2002
Deep excavation design,
retaining walls, and
shoring systems
Easy to use, supports
multi-stage construction
sequences
Limited to
excavation
problems, no 3D
analysis
Settle3D 2003
3D settlement analysis
under embankments and
foundations
Accurate settlement
prediction, intuitive user
interface
Limited to
settlement analysis,
computationally
intensive
Geo5 2003
Foundation design,
slope stability, retaining
walls
Modular system, simple
for common geotechnical
problems
Limited to 2D
analysis, lacks
advanced interaction
modelling
Midas Soil
Works
2010
Retaining structures,
foundations, slope
stability, and tunnelling
Comprehensive solution,
modern interface with 3D
capabilities
High resource
demands, expensive
22 © MAT Journals 2025. All Rights Reserved
Table 3: Details of historical use of software by the Indian geotechnical community.
Software Year of Origin Applications Advantages Limitations
GeoStudio 1977
Slope stability,
groundwater seepage,
stress-deformation
analysis
Comprehensive suite,
user-friendly interface,
strong graphical
presentation
Limited to 2D
modelling, lacks
advanced soil
models
GRLWEAP 1980
Pile driving simulation
and dynamic pile
analysis
Provides insight into pile
driving dynamics,
integrates with field data
Specific to pile
driving, it is not a
versatile tool for
other analyses
Oasys
Slope
1980s
Simple limit
equilibrium analysis for
slope stability
User-friendly and quick,
lightweight for simple
projects
Only suitable for
basic slope stability,
lacks advanced
analysis features
FLAC 1986
Soil, rock, and
structural interaction,
slope stability, tunnel
design
Effective for static and
dynamic analysis, handles
large deformations
Complex interface,
requires advanced
knowledge and
training
LPILE 1986
Lateral load analysis for
deep foundations
Simple and effective for
pile analysis, efficient
computation
Limited to lateral
loading, 1D analysis
only
PLAXIS
2D
1987
2D finite element
analysis for
geotechnical problems
Accurate deformation and
stress analysis, a large
variety of soil models
Limited to 2D
analysis, costly for
academic use
PLAXIS
3D
1998
3D finite element
analysis for soil-
structure interaction,
tunnelling
3D capabilities, precise
modelling of complex
geometry
High computational
resources required,
expensive
TALREN 1990s
Limit equilibrium
analysis for slope
stability
Simple interface, supports
reinforced structures
Limited to 2D
analysis, lacks
detailed deformation
analysis
RS2
(Rocscience
Phase2)
1996
Finite element analysis
for soil and rock
mechanics, slope
stability
Advanced analysis
integrates stress analysis
and groundwater flow
Steep learning curve,
requires significant
computational
resources
Rocscience
Slide
1996
2D slope stability using
the limit equilibrium
method
Easy-to-use interface,
integrates groundwater and
support systems
Limited to 2D
analysis, no
deformation analysis
capabilities
SWEDGE 1999
3D rock slope stability
using wedge failure
models
Effective for wedge
analysis, provides 3D
visualization
Limited to rock
slopes and specific
wedge failure modes
DeepEX 2002
Deep excavation design,
retaining walls, and
shoring systems
Easy to use, supports
multi-stage construction
sequences
Limited to
excavation
problems, no 3D
analysis
Settle3D 2003
3D settlement analysis
under embankments and
foundations
Accurate settlement
prediction, intuitive user
interface
Limited to
settlement analysis,
computationally
intensive
Geo5 2003
Foundation design,
slope stability, retaining
walls
Modular system, simple
for common geotechnical
problems
Limited to 2D
analysis, lacks
advanced interaction
modelling
Midas Soil
Works
2010
Retaining structures,
foundations, slope
stability, and tunnelling
Comprehensive solution,
modern interface with 3D
capabilities
High resource
demands, expensive
J of Geot. Stu. Vol. 10, Issue 3
23 © MAT Journals 2025. All Rights Reserved
MIDAS
GTS NX
2012
3D finite element
analysis for
underground structures,
tunnelling
3D modelling, CAD
integration, multi-physics
simulation
High learning curve,
resource-intensive
Z-Soil 2012
2D/3D finite element
analysis for soil-
structure interaction,
consolidation, and
excavation
Powerful analysis of soil-
structure interaction, a
large range of materials
Steep learning curve,
high system
requirements
OptumG2 2015
2D geotechnical finite
element analysis, slope
stability, retaining walls
User-friendly, fast
computations, and
advanced limit analysis
Limited to 2D,
limited soil
constitutive models
Role of Instrumentation, Equipment, and
Expertise
The trajectory of geotechnical research in India
has been strongly influenced by the availability
of sophisticated instruments, laboratory
facilities, and expertise at leading academic and
research institutions. Each premier institute has
cultivated specific niches of geotechnical
research, guided by the type of instrumentation
available and the expertise of faculty. For
instance, advanced centrifuge testing facilities
have enabled physical modelling of soil–
structure interaction problems, while dynamic
laboratories have supported soil dynamics and
earthquake engineering studies.
Such specialization has created centres
of excellence across India, allowing focused
research in areas such as slope stability,
foundation dynamics, ground improvement, and
mining-related geotechnics. Table 4 summarizes
the key institutional strengths based on
instrumentation and expertise.
Table 4: Institutional focus areas in geotechnical research in India.
Institute Instrumentation/Facilities Research Focus/Expertise
IIT Bombay
Advanced geotechnical centrifuge
testing facility
Centrifuge modelling of soil-structure interaction,
embankments, and ground improvement studies
IIT Kanpur
Soil dynamics and earthquake
engineering laboratory
Dynamic soil properties, liquefaction, and vibration
analysis
IIT Roorkee
Large geotechnical testing
laboratories, hydraulics labs
Rock mechanics, landslide studies, and flood-related
geotechnical challenges
IIT Delhi
Model testing facilities, advanced
soil testing labs
Model studies on shallow/deep foundations,
retaining structures, and embankments
IIT Madras
Offshore geotechnical testing
equipment, wave flume
Marine and offshore geotechnics, coastal soil–
structure interaction
IIT Dhanbad
Mining-related geotechnical labs
(School of Mines)
Ground control in mining, rock engineering, and
subsidence problems
IIT Kharagpur
Soil mechanics and transportation
geotech labs
Pavement geotechnics, expansive soils, soil
stabilization, and foundation engineering
IIT Guwahati
Advanced material testing,
regional soil labs
Soft soil engineering, ground improvement for
Northeast India soils
IIT Hyderabad
Emerging soil-structure research
labs
Numerical modelling, coupled soil–fluid interaction
studies
The distribution of advanced equipment
across institutes has created an informal research
ecosystem in India, where researchers specialize
in particular domains. For instance, IIT Bombay
has emerged as a hub for centrifuge modelling,
while IIT Kanpur is widely recognized for soil
23 © MAT Journals 2025. All Rights Reserved
MIDAS
GTS NX
2012
3D finite element
analysis for
underground structures,
tunnelling
3D modelling, CAD
integration, multi-physics
simulation
High learning curve,
resource-intensive
Z-Soil 2012
2D/3D finite element
analysis for soil-
structure interaction,
consolidation, and
excavation
Powerful analysis of soil-
structure interaction, a
large range of materials
Steep learning curve,
high system
requirements
OptumG2 2015
2D geotechnical finite
element analysis, slope
stability, retaining walls
User-friendly, fast
computations, and
advanced limit analysis
Limited to 2D,
limited soil
constitutive models
Role of Instrumentation, Equipment, and
Expertise
The trajectory of geotechnical research in India
has been strongly influenced by the availability
of sophisticated instruments, laboratory
facilities, and expertise at leading academic and
research institutions. Each premier institute has
cultivated specific niches of geotechnical
research, guided by the type of instrumentation
available and the expertise of faculty. For
instance, advanced centrifuge testing facilities
have enabled physical modelling of soil–
structure interaction problems, while dynamic
laboratories have supported soil dynamics and
earthquake engineering studies.
Such specialization has created centres
of excellence across India, allowing focused
research in areas such as slope stability,
foundation dynamics, ground improvement, and
mining-related geotechnics. Table 4 summarizes
the key institutional strengths based on
instrumentation and expertise.
Table 4: Institutional focus areas in geotechnical research in India.
Institute Instrumentation/Facilities Research Focus/Expertise
IIT Bombay
Advanced geotechnical centrifuge
testing facility
Centrifuge modelling of soil-structure interaction,
embankments, and ground improvement studies
IIT Kanpur
Soil dynamics and earthquake
engineering laboratory
Dynamic soil properties, liquefaction, and vibration
analysis
IIT Roorkee
Large geotechnical testing
laboratories, hydraulics labs
Rock mechanics, landslide studies, and flood-related
geotechnical challenges
IIT Delhi
Model testing facilities, advanced
soil testing labs
Model studies on shallow/deep foundations,
retaining structures, and embankments
IIT Madras
Offshore geotechnical testing
equipment, wave flume
Marine and offshore geotechnics, coastal soil–
structure interaction
IIT Dhanbad
Mining-related geotechnical labs
(School of Mines)
Ground control in mining, rock engineering, and
subsidence problems
IIT Kharagpur
Soil mechanics and transportation
geotech labs
Pavement geotechnics, expansive soils, soil
stabilization, and foundation engineering
IIT Guwahati
Advanced material testing,
regional soil labs
Soft soil engineering, ground improvement for
Northeast India soils
IIT Hyderabad
Emerging soil-structure research
labs
Numerical modelling, coupled soil–fluid interaction
studies
The distribution of advanced equipment
across institutes has created an informal research
ecosystem in India, where researchers specialize
in particular domains. For instance, IIT Bombay
has emerged as a hub for centrifuge modelling,
while IIT Kanpur is widely recognized for soil
The Current Landscape of Geotechnical Research in India Samirsinh P. Parmar
24 © MAT Journals 2025. All Rights Reserved
dynamics. IIT Madras contributes significantly
to offshore and coastal geotechnical problems
relevant to India’s long coastline, whereas IIT
Dhanbad leverages its mining legacy.
This specialization has twofold benefits:
It allows researchers to address region-
specific geotechnical challenges, such as
Himalayan landslides or marine clay
problems in Chennai.
It encourages collaboration across
institutions, where unique facilities are
shared for broader national research projects.
The Contribution and Limitations of Indian
Standards (IS Codes)
Indian Standards (IS Codes), formulated by the
Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), are crucial in
ensuring the quality, safety, and reliability of
structures in India. These codes serve as
essential benchmarks for the design,
construction, and maintenance of civil
engineering projects. Organizations such as the
Central Road Research Institute (CRRI) have
contributed significantly to their formulation,
developing national codes of practice and
guidelines, particularly in areas like landslide
investigations and the use of waste materials in
road construction. The existence of a
comprehensive list of IS codes covering topics
from soil classification to load testing highlights
a long-standing commitment to standardization
and quality in geotechnical practice.
However, these standards also have
inherent limitations. The IS codes are developed
to provide a minimum set of requirements for
general structures, and they may not adequately
address the unique challenges posed by a
country with diverse geographical and climatic
conditions. For complex or iconic structures,
engineers often must rely on supplementary
guidelines, research, or international standards.
The case study of construction in Cochin
illustrates this challenge, where the presence of
"extremely soft marine clays" with
―unpredictable fluctuation‖ shows that standard
procedures can be misleading. These site-
specific complexities often require a deeper
level of investigation and analysis than a general
code might mandate.
In response to these issues, a significant
policy shift is underway. The new Indian
Standard IS 19235:2025, for example, moves
beyond standardizing the materials and methods
to standardizing the service itself. It outlines
requirements for geotechnical engineering
services, specifies minimum qualifications for
consultants, and defines the roles and
responsibilities of various stakeholders. This
initiative represents a strategic move by the
government to force a higher standard of care
and professional judgment, acknowledging the
fact that simply following a code is insufficient
for complex projects. By regulating the
professionals and the process, the new standard
incentivizes the kind of rigorous, site-specific
analysis that bridges the gap between theoretical
knowledge and practical application, a critical
step towards improving the overall quality of
geotechnical work in India.
PUBLICATION, PATENTS, AND
INNOVATION IN THE INDIAN CONTEXT
Trends in Scholarly Publications
Scholarly publications are a key metric for
gauging the output and intellectual vitality of a
research community. The Indian Geotechnical
Journal (IGJ), a prominent publication in the
field, provides a valuable case study. The
journal has shown a trend of increasing
publication volume over recent years, with the
number of papers growing from 78 in 2020 to
133 in 2022, and a significant increase to 293 in
2024 and 31 in 2025.
The following (Fig. 2) illustrates the
growth in the number of publications in the
Indian Geotechnical Journal. The Indian
Geotechnical Journal published approximately
130–133 articles in 2021–2023 and 78 articles in
2020. In 2024, there were 307 articles published.
The journal is published quarterly and has been
in operation since 1962.
24 © MAT Journals 2025. All Rights Reserved
dynamics. IIT Madras contributes significantly
to offshore and coastal geotechnical problems
relevant to India’s long coastline, whereas IIT
Dhanbad leverages its mining legacy.
This specialization has twofold benefits:
It allows researchers to address region-
specific geotechnical challenges, such as
Himalayan landslides or marine clay
problems in Chennai.
It encourages collaboration across
institutions, where unique facilities are
shared for broader national research projects.
The Contribution and Limitations of Indian
Standards (IS Codes)
Indian Standards (IS Codes), formulated by the
Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), are crucial in
ensuring the quality, safety, and reliability of
structures in India. These codes serve as
essential benchmarks for the design,
construction, and maintenance of civil
engineering projects. Organizations such as the
Central Road Research Institute (CRRI) have
contributed significantly to their formulation,
developing national codes of practice and
guidelines, particularly in areas like landslide
investigations and the use of waste materials in
road construction. The existence of a
comprehensive list of IS codes covering topics
from soil classification to load testing highlights
a long-standing commitment to standardization
and quality in geotechnical practice.
However, these standards also have
inherent limitations. The IS codes are developed
to provide a minimum set of requirements for
general structures, and they may not adequately
address the unique challenges posed by a
country with diverse geographical and climatic
conditions. For complex or iconic structures,
engineers often must rely on supplementary
guidelines, research, or international standards.
The case study of construction in Cochin
illustrates this challenge, where the presence of
"extremely soft marine clays" with
―unpredictable fluctuation‖ shows that standard
procedures can be misleading. These site-
specific complexities often require a deeper
level of investigation and analysis than a general
code might mandate.
In response to these issues, a significant
policy shift is underway. The new Indian
Standard IS 19235:2025, for example, moves
beyond standardizing the materials and methods
to standardizing the service itself. It outlines
requirements for geotechnical engineering
services, specifies minimum qualifications for
consultants, and defines the roles and
responsibilities of various stakeholders. This
initiative represents a strategic move by the
government to force a higher standard of care
and professional judgment, acknowledging the
fact that simply following a code is insufficient
for complex projects. By regulating the
professionals and the process, the new standard
incentivizes the kind of rigorous, site-specific
analysis that bridges the gap between theoretical
knowledge and practical application, a critical
step towards improving the overall quality of
geotechnical work in India.
PUBLICATION, PATENTS, AND
INNOVATION IN THE INDIAN CONTEXT
Trends in Scholarly Publications
Scholarly publications are a key metric for
gauging the output and intellectual vitality of a
research community. The Indian Geotechnical
Journal (IGJ), a prominent publication in the
field, provides a valuable case study. The
journal has shown a trend of increasing
publication volume over recent years, with the
number of papers growing from 78 in 2020 to
133 in 2022, and a significant increase to 293 in
2024 and 31 in 2025.
The following (Fig. 2) illustrates the
growth in the number of publications in the
Indian Geotechnical Journal. The Indian
Geotechnical Journal published approximately
130–133 articles in 2021–2023 and 78 articles in
2020. In 2024, there were 307 articles published.
The journal is published quarterly and has been
in operation since 1962.
J of Geot. Stu. Vol. 10, Issue 3
25 © MAT Journals 2025. All Rights Reserved
Figure 2: Trends of total publications per year in the IGJ journal. (Data Ref: Journal website).
This quantitative growth in publications
is a positive sign of an active and productive
research community. However, an analysis of
collaboration patterns within the journal reveals
a nuanced picture. Research collaboration is
predominantly domestic and intra-
organizational, accounting for 54.9% of
publications. Domestic inter-organizational
collaboration makes up 24.4%, while
international collaboration is strikingly low at
only 10.4%.
This high rate of insular, intra-
organizational collaboration suggests a research
ecosystem that may be less exposed to global
best practices, cutting-edge technologies, and
diverse methodologies. This can contribute to a
lack of originality and a tendency to repeat
existing work, as researchers may be less aware
of advancements in the global literature. The
phenomenon of "recycling of research topics"
and focusing on "safe" topics that lack
innovation is a direct consequence of this
isolation. While a connected domestic
community is a strength, the limited
international engagement represents a
significant barrier to achieving global
competitiveness and may lead to a higher
volume of research that does not genuinely
contribute new insights to the field.
Research Publication Challenges for Indian
Researchers
Despite the steady growth of geotechnical
research in India, several systemic challenges
hinder the visibility and impact of Indian
contributions in the global research community.
One of the foremost issues is the absence of
institutional access to plagiarism detection
software in many universities and colleges. This
often results in unintentional overlaps or
difficulties in meeting the stringent originality
requirements set by high-impact international
journals.
Another major barrier is limited funding
support for publication fees. Many leading
journals in geotechnical engineering are open
access or require high article processing charges
(APCs), which remain unaffordable for
researchers working in state universities or self-
funded doctoral programs. This financial barrier
restricts the dissemination of Indian research to
wider international audiences. The dominance of
the international research community further
compounds the challenge. Research output from
Western countries and East Asia often sets the
benchmarks for publication standards, leading to
biases in peer review. Consequently, region-
specific studies on Indian soil conditions,
25 © MAT Journals 2025. All Rights Reserved
Figure 2: Trends of total publications per year in the IGJ journal. (Data Ref: Journal website).
This quantitative growth in publications
is a positive sign of an active and productive
research community. However, an analysis of
collaboration patterns within the journal reveals
a nuanced picture. Research collaboration is
predominantly domestic and intra-
organizational, accounting for 54.9% of
publications. Domestic inter-organizational
collaboration makes up 24.4%, while
international collaboration is strikingly low at
only 10.4%.
This high rate of insular, intra-
organizational collaboration suggests a research
ecosystem that may be less exposed to global
best practices, cutting-edge technologies, and
diverse methodologies. This can contribute to a
lack of originality and a tendency to repeat
existing work, as researchers may be less aware
of advancements in the global literature. The
phenomenon of "recycling of research topics"
and focusing on "safe" topics that lack
innovation is a direct consequence of this
isolation. While a connected domestic
community is a strength, the limited
international engagement represents a
significant barrier to achieving global
competitiveness and may lead to a higher
volume of research that does not genuinely
contribute new insights to the field.
Research Publication Challenges for Indian
Researchers
Despite the steady growth of geotechnical
research in India, several systemic challenges
hinder the visibility and impact of Indian
contributions in the global research community.
One of the foremost issues is the absence of
institutional access to plagiarism detection
software in many universities and colleges. This
often results in unintentional overlaps or
difficulties in meeting the stringent originality
requirements set by high-impact international
journals.
Another major barrier is limited funding
support for publication fees. Many leading
journals in geotechnical engineering are open
access or require high article processing charges
(APCs), which remain unaffordable for
researchers working in state universities or self-
funded doctoral programs. This financial barrier
restricts the dissemination of Indian research to
wider international audiences. The dominance of
the international research community further
compounds the challenge. Research output from
Western countries and East Asia often sets the
benchmarks for publication standards, leading to
biases in peer review. Consequently, region-
specific studies on Indian soil conditions,
The Current Landscape of Geotechnical Research in India Samirsinh P. Parmar
26 © MAT Journals 2025. All Rights Reserved
though highly relevant locally, may be
undervalued by global reviewers who prioritize
generalized or internationally comparative
studies.
Additionally, the lack of Scopus- or Web
of Science indexed Indian journals in the field of
geotechnical engineering significantly limits
opportunities for Indian researchers to publish
locally while gaining international visibility.
The few available journals often face issues of
limited outreach, irregular frequency, or long
review timelines. Collectively, these challenges
create barriers for Indian geotechnical
researchers, resulting in underrepresentation in
global literature despite substantial practical and
experimental contributions. Overcoming these
barriers requires policy support for research
funding, institutional capacity-building, and the
development of high-quality, internationally
recognized Indian journals in geotechnical
engineering.
Patenting Trends and Noteworthy
Innovations
Patenting is a key indicator of commercially
relevant and applied innovation. India has seen a
significant increase in overall patent filings and
grants, with filings increasing from 66,440 in
2021–22 to 82,811 in 2022–23. Total patents
granted also saw an increase from 30,073 to
34,134 in the same period. This general trend
reflects a national focus on intellectual property
creation.
Geotechnical-specific innovations, while
not tracked as a separate category in the
provided data, demonstrate a strong legacy of
public-sector research and development.
Government-funded institutions like the Council
of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) and
its labs have a history of developing patented
technologies, such as the "Under-reamed and
bored compaction pile foundation" and ―Spliced
pile technology‖. The CSIR-Central Road
Research Institute (CRRI) holds patents for
innovations like a method for soil nailing for
railway underpasses and high-performance
hybrid bitumen. More recent patents from
academic institutions like IIT Patna also point to
continued university-led innovation, such as a
"micro air pluviator" and a system for mitigating
liquefaction failures.
However, this innovation landscape
presents a complex picture. While there is a
strong legacy of state-driven innovation, a
global analysis of patents indicates a dominance
of corporate players over academic institutions.
In India, the role of the private sector in
geotechnics appears to be focused primarily on
professional services, such as soil investigation,
field and laboratory testing, and consultancy.
Companies like CENGRS and CEG India
provide essential services that bridge the gap
between academic theory and on-the-ground
practice, but they are not necessarily the primary
drivers of long-term, foundational R&D. For
India to truly commercialize its research and
achieve a leading role in global innovation, a
more robust model of public-private partnership
is necessary. The current model, heavily reliant
on public-sector and academic R&D, may be
insufficient to meet the demands of a high-tech,
competitive global market. However, the
Applicability of patents as well as the salability
of it requires further research in the Indian
context.
SYSTEMIC CHALLENGES AND
NUISANCES HINDERING RESEARCH
PROGRESSION
Financial and Infrastructural Barriers
One of the most significant challenges facing
geotechnical research in India is the lack of
adequate funding. Quality research, particularly
experimental and field-based studies, requires
substantial financial support for sophisticated
equipment, fieldwork, and data analysis. While
there are some notable projects, such as the 14
on-going research projects at BITS Pilani with a
total value of over ₹8 crore, this is a relatively
small number given the scale of India's
infrastructure needs. Furthermore, researchers
often face the nuisance of delayed or irregular
fund releases, which can severely disrupt
research timelines and output.
In addition to funding, a lack of modern,
state-of-the-art infrastructure is a persistent
problem. Many institutions, particularly outside
of premier universities, suffer from out-dated
laboratory equipment and limited access to
expensive, advanced software tools. This
26 © MAT Journals 2025. All Rights Reserved
though highly relevant locally, may be
undervalued by global reviewers who prioritize
generalized or internationally comparative
studies.
Additionally, the lack of Scopus- or Web
of Science indexed Indian journals in the field of
geotechnical engineering significantly limits
opportunities for Indian researchers to publish
locally while gaining international visibility.
The few available journals often face issues of
limited outreach, irregular frequency, or long
review timelines. Collectively, these challenges
create barriers for Indian geotechnical
researchers, resulting in underrepresentation in
global literature despite substantial practical and
experimental contributions. Overcoming these
barriers requires policy support for research
funding, institutional capacity-building, and the
development of high-quality, internationally
recognized Indian journals in geotechnical
engineering.
Patenting Trends and Noteworthy
Innovations
Patenting is a key indicator of commercially
relevant and applied innovation. India has seen a
significant increase in overall patent filings and
grants, with filings increasing from 66,440 in
2021–22 to 82,811 in 2022–23. Total patents
granted also saw an increase from 30,073 to
34,134 in the same period. This general trend
reflects a national focus on intellectual property
creation.
Geotechnical-specific innovations, while
not tracked as a separate category in the
provided data, demonstrate a strong legacy of
public-sector research and development.
Government-funded institutions like the Council
of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) and
its labs have a history of developing patented
technologies, such as the "Under-reamed and
bored compaction pile foundation" and ―Spliced
pile technology‖. The CSIR-Central Road
Research Institute (CRRI) holds patents for
innovations like a method for soil nailing for
railway underpasses and high-performance
hybrid bitumen. More recent patents from
academic institutions like IIT Patna also point to
continued university-led innovation, such as a
"micro air pluviator" and a system for mitigating
liquefaction failures.
However, this innovation landscape
presents a complex picture. While there is a
strong legacy of state-driven innovation, a
global analysis of patents indicates a dominance
of corporate players over academic institutions.
In India, the role of the private sector in
geotechnics appears to be focused primarily on
professional services, such as soil investigation,
field and laboratory testing, and consultancy.
Companies like CENGRS and CEG India
provide essential services that bridge the gap
between academic theory and on-the-ground
practice, but they are not necessarily the primary
drivers of long-term, foundational R&D. For
India to truly commercialize its research and
achieve a leading role in global innovation, a
more robust model of public-private partnership
is necessary. The current model, heavily reliant
on public-sector and academic R&D, may be
insufficient to meet the demands of a high-tech,
competitive global market. However, the
Applicability of patents as well as the salability
of it requires further research in the Indian
context.
SYSTEMIC CHALLENGES AND
NUISANCES HINDERING RESEARCH
PROGRESSION
Financial and Infrastructural Barriers
One of the most significant challenges facing
geotechnical research in India is the lack of
adequate funding. Quality research, particularly
experimental and field-based studies, requires
substantial financial support for sophisticated
equipment, fieldwork, and data analysis. While
there are some notable projects, such as the 14
on-going research projects at BITS Pilani with a
total value of over ₹8 crore, this is a relatively
small number given the scale of India's
infrastructure needs. Furthermore, researchers
often face the nuisance of delayed or irregular
fund releases, which can severely disrupt
research timelines and output.
In addition to funding, a lack of modern,
state-of-the-art infrastructure is a persistent
problem. Many institutions, particularly outside
of premier universities, suffer from out-dated
laboratory equipment and limited access to
expensive, advanced software tools. This
J of Geot. Stu. Vol. 10, Issue 3
27 © MAT Journals 2025. All Rights Reserved
infrastructural gap hampers the ability of
researchers to conduct cutting-edge studies and
stay abreast of global technological
advancements.
Bureaucratic, Administrative, and Socio-
political Roadblocks
Beyond financial and infrastructural issues, the
research environment is plagued by bureaucratic
hurdles and administrative inefficiencies.
Researchers often face complex and lengthy
administrative processes, excessive paperwork,
and a general lack of transparency in the
allocation and utilization of funds. These
procedural nuisances can significantly delay
research progress and discourage innovation.
A consequence of these administrative
barriers is the prevalence of insular research
collaboration. The high rate of domestic intra-
organizational collaboration (54.9%) compared
to the low rate of international collaboration
(10.4%) can be attributed, in part, to these
bureaucratic complexities. It is often far easier
to collaborate with a colleague in the same
department or institution than to navigate the
legal, financial, and administrative red tape
involved in setting up an inter-institutional or
international project. This administrative
friction, therefore, creates a behavioural pattern
where researchers choose to work within the
path of least resistance, leading to a more
closed, less globally-engaged research
ecosystem. The problem is compounded by
professors who are often overburdened with
teaching and administrative duties, leaving them
with insufficient time for proper guidance and
mentorship.
Critiques of Research Quality: The
“Meaningless Topics” Conundrum
A critical and recurring observation in the field
is the existence of what is termed "meaningless"
or less-significant research. This refers to topics
that lack practical application or fail to
contribute new insights to the field. This issue is
not a symptom of a lack of effort but rather a
consequence of a systemic disconnect between
academic incentives and industry needs.
Research topics can be considered less
meaningful for several reasons:
Lack of Practical Application: Many studies
focus on niche or highly theoretical concepts
with limited relevance to real-world engineering
projects. Examples include esoteric laboratory
tests or purely academic mathematical models
that are not validated in the field.
Repetition of Existing Work: Driven by
pressure to publish, researchers may
unknowingly or knowingly repeat studies that
have already been extensively documented in
the literature. This can involve re-analysing
existing datasets or reproducing published case
studies without introducing new variables or
perspectives.
Overemphasis on Minor Details: A
disproportionate amount of time and resources
can be allocated to studying trivial aspects of a
problem, such as microstructural soil analysis or
localized property variations, without
demonstrating clear connections to macroscopic
behaviour or engineering implications.
Ignoring Practical Challenges: Some research
fails to account for the real-world constraints
faced during actual projects, such as site
limitations, economic factors, or construction
sequencing. The Cochin case study provides a
perfect example, where the "unpredictable
fluctuation" of real soil and the need for rock
blasting rendered the initial idealized piling
design unfeasible, highlighting the gap between
theoretical models and field reality.
These issues are not just a nuisance; they
have serious implications. They waste valuable
resources that could have been directed toward
addressing pressing geotechnical challenges and
hinder the overall advancement of the field.
The Disconnect Between Academia and
Industry Needs
The critiques of research quality ultimately point
to a fundamental disconnect between the
academic research agenda and the practical
needs of the industry. While academics may
prioritize theoretical exploration and publication
in high-impact journals, the industry needs
immediate, site-specific, and reliable solutions
to tangible engineering problems. Professional
consultancy firms and testing laboratories, such
as CENGRS and CEG India, have emerged to
27 © MAT Journals 2025. All Rights Reserved
infrastructural gap hampers the ability of
researchers to conduct cutting-edge studies and
stay abreast of global technological
advancements.
Bureaucratic, Administrative, and Socio-
political Roadblocks
Beyond financial and infrastructural issues, the
research environment is plagued by bureaucratic
hurdles and administrative inefficiencies.
Researchers often face complex and lengthy
administrative processes, excessive paperwork,
and a general lack of transparency in the
allocation and utilization of funds. These
procedural nuisances can significantly delay
research progress and discourage innovation.
A consequence of these administrative
barriers is the prevalence of insular research
collaboration. The high rate of domestic intra-
organizational collaboration (54.9%) compared
to the low rate of international collaboration
(10.4%) can be attributed, in part, to these
bureaucratic complexities. It is often far easier
to collaborate with a colleague in the same
department or institution than to navigate the
legal, financial, and administrative red tape
involved in setting up an inter-institutional or
international project. This administrative
friction, therefore, creates a behavioural pattern
where researchers choose to work within the
path of least resistance, leading to a more
closed, less globally-engaged research
ecosystem. The problem is compounded by
professors who are often overburdened with
teaching and administrative duties, leaving them
with insufficient time for proper guidance and
mentorship.
Critiques of Research Quality: The
“Meaningless Topics” Conundrum
A critical and recurring observation in the field
is the existence of what is termed "meaningless"
or less-significant research. This refers to topics
that lack practical application or fail to
contribute new insights to the field. This issue is
not a symptom of a lack of effort but rather a
consequence of a systemic disconnect between
academic incentives and industry needs.
Research topics can be considered less
meaningful for several reasons:
Lack of Practical Application: Many studies
focus on niche or highly theoretical concepts
with limited relevance to real-world engineering
projects. Examples include esoteric laboratory
tests or purely academic mathematical models
that are not validated in the field.
Repetition of Existing Work: Driven by
pressure to publish, researchers may
unknowingly or knowingly repeat studies that
have already been extensively documented in
the literature. This can involve re-analysing
existing datasets or reproducing published case
studies without introducing new variables or
perspectives.
Overemphasis on Minor Details: A
disproportionate amount of time and resources
can be allocated to studying trivial aspects of a
problem, such as microstructural soil analysis or
localized property variations, without
demonstrating clear connections to macroscopic
behaviour or engineering implications.
Ignoring Practical Challenges: Some research
fails to account for the real-world constraints
faced during actual projects, such as site
limitations, economic factors, or construction
sequencing. The Cochin case study provides a
perfect example, where the "unpredictable
fluctuation" of real soil and the need for rock
blasting rendered the initial idealized piling
design unfeasible, highlighting the gap between
theoretical models and field reality.
These issues are not just a nuisance; they
have serious implications. They waste valuable
resources that could have been directed toward
addressing pressing geotechnical challenges and
hinder the overall advancement of the field.
The Disconnect Between Academia and
Industry Needs
The critiques of research quality ultimately point
to a fundamental disconnect between the
academic research agenda and the practical
needs of the industry. While academics may
prioritize theoretical exploration and publication
in high-impact journals, the industry needs
immediate, site-specific, and reliable solutions
to tangible engineering problems. Professional
consultancy firms and testing laboratories, such
as CENGRS and CEG India, have emerged to
The Current Landscape of Geotechnical Research in India Samirsinh P. Parmar
28 © MAT Journals 2025. All Rights Reserved
fill this gap by providing essential services like
field investigations and soil testing. However,
this separation means that a significant portion
of academic research remains theoretical and
invalidated, while industry practice continues to
rely on well-established, and sometimes
outdated, methods. This creates a vicious cycle
where a lack of industry engagement limits the
practical relevance of academic research, and a
lack of innovation in academia provides no new
solutions for the industry to adopt.
FUTURE TRAJECTORIES AND
ACTIONABLE RECOMMENDATIONS
Emerging Research Areas and Global
Relevance
For Indian geotechnical research to advance, it
must strategically align its focus with global
challenges and emerging trends. The topics
currently receiving less attention, as identified in
the research material, hold immense potential
for future breakthroughs. These include:
Bio-geotechnics: The study of interactions
between soils and biological elements for soil
improvement and environmental remediation.
Geo-energy Applications: Research on the
geotechnical aspects of energy extraction and
storage, such as geothermal energy and carbon
sequestration.
Geotechnical Challenges in Smart Cities:
Addressing the unique problems posed by rapid
urbanization, including deep excavations,
tunnelling, and the integration of underground
utilities and sensor networks.
Future research should also focus on
developing climate-resilient infrastructure,
creating "smart" geotechnical materials that can
adapt to changing conditions, and innovating
deep foundation systems for the growing
megacities.
Strategic Recommendations for Enhancing
Research Quality and Impact
Improving the quality of geotechnical research
in India requires a multi-faceted approach that
addresses the financial, administrative, and
academic issues identified in this study.
Financial Autonomy: Adequate funding for
research is paramount. The government and
private sectors must increase allocations for
research grants, laboratory facilities, and field
testing. Incentives for industry collaboration,
such as tax benefits for companies investing in
R&D with academic institutions, would ensure
that research addresses real-world problems and
receives the necessary financial backing.
Administrative Streamlining: The lengthy
administrative procedures for fund acquisition
and equipment procurement must be streamlined
to minimize delays. Providing faculty with
research sabbaticals and more flexible
workloads would allow them to focus on in-
depth studies without being overburdened by
teaching duties.
Academic Reform: The academic environment
must shift its emphasis from the quantity of
publications to the quality and impact of
research. Modifying promotion criteria to
prioritize high-impact work over sheer volume
would incentivize deeper exploration of topics.
Furthermore, encouraging interdisciplinary
collaboration and fostering access to
international expertise would expose researchers
to new technologies and methodologies.
Policy Intervention: The recent introduction of
IS 19235:2025, which defines qualifications and
services, is a positive step toward
institutionalizing quality. This type of policy can
be used to force a cultural shift toward
accountability and practical relevance. Further
policy changes should promote long-term
research goals and create multi-year grants to
support high-impact studies that require more
time to mature.
CONCLUSION
The state of geotechnical research in India is at a
critical juncture. The academic ecosystem
demonstrates a strong quantitative capacity,
producing a high volume of graduates and
publications. However, this growth is paralleled
by systemic challenges that compromise the
quality and practical relevance of the research.
There is a palpable disconnect between the
theoretical, publication-driven academic agenda
and the tangible, site-specific needs of the
Indian construction industry. The proliferation
of software has become a double-edged sword,
enabling complex analysis while simultaneously
28 © MAT Journals 2025. All Rights Reserved
fill this gap by providing essential services like
field investigations and soil testing. However,
this separation means that a significant portion
of academic research remains theoretical and
invalidated, while industry practice continues to
rely on well-established, and sometimes
outdated, methods. This creates a vicious cycle
where a lack of industry engagement limits the
practical relevance of academic research, and a
lack of innovation in academia provides no new
solutions for the industry to adopt.
FUTURE TRAJECTORIES AND
ACTIONABLE RECOMMENDATIONS
Emerging Research Areas and Global
Relevance
For Indian geotechnical research to advance, it
must strategically align its focus with global
challenges and emerging trends. The topics
currently receiving less attention, as identified in
the research material, hold immense potential
for future breakthroughs. These include:
Bio-geotechnics: The study of interactions
between soils and biological elements for soil
improvement and environmental remediation.
Geo-energy Applications: Research on the
geotechnical aspects of energy extraction and
storage, such as geothermal energy and carbon
sequestration.
Geotechnical Challenges in Smart Cities:
Addressing the unique problems posed by rapid
urbanization, including deep excavations,
tunnelling, and the integration of underground
utilities and sensor networks.
Future research should also focus on
developing climate-resilient infrastructure,
creating "smart" geotechnical materials that can
adapt to changing conditions, and innovating
deep foundation systems for the growing
megacities.
Strategic Recommendations for Enhancing
Research Quality and Impact
Improving the quality of geotechnical research
in India requires a multi-faceted approach that
addresses the financial, administrative, and
academic issues identified in this study.
Financial Autonomy: Adequate funding for
research is paramount. The government and
private sectors must increase allocations for
research grants, laboratory facilities, and field
testing. Incentives for industry collaboration,
such as tax benefits for companies investing in
R&D with academic institutions, would ensure
that research addresses real-world problems and
receives the necessary financial backing.
Administrative Streamlining: The lengthy
administrative procedures for fund acquisition
and equipment procurement must be streamlined
to minimize delays. Providing faculty with
research sabbaticals and more flexible
workloads would allow them to focus on in-
depth studies without being overburdened by
teaching duties.
Academic Reform: The academic environment
must shift its emphasis from the quantity of
publications to the quality and impact of
research. Modifying promotion criteria to
prioritize high-impact work over sheer volume
would incentivize deeper exploration of topics.
Furthermore, encouraging interdisciplinary
collaboration and fostering access to
international expertise would expose researchers
to new technologies and methodologies.
Policy Intervention: The recent introduction of
IS 19235:2025, which defines qualifications and
services, is a positive step toward
institutionalizing quality. This type of policy can
be used to force a cultural shift toward
accountability and practical relevance. Further
policy changes should promote long-term
research goals and create multi-year grants to
support high-impact studies that require more
time to mature.
CONCLUSION
The state of geotechnical research in India is at a
critical juncture. The academic ecosystem
demonstrates a strong quantitative capacity,
producing a high volume of graduates and
publications. However, this growth is paralleled
by systemic challenges that compromise the
quality and practical relevance of the research.
There is a palpable disconnect between the
theoretical, publication-driven academic agenda
and the tangible, site-specific needs of the
Indian construction industry. The proliferation
of software has become a double-edged sword,
enabling complex analysis while simultaneously
J of Geot. Stu. Vol. 10, Issue 3
29 © MAT Journals 2025. All Rights Reserved
encouraging an overreliance on idealized
models that lack real-world validation. This
technological gap, coupled with persistent
financial and bureaucratic hurdles, has
contributed to a culture of insular, repetitive,
and at times, ―meaningless‖ research.
However, the future is not without
promise. The legacy of public-sector innovation
and the recent policy shift toward standardizing
professional services and qualifications (as
exemplified by IS 19235:2025) demonstrate a
growing recognition of these issues. For Indian
geotechnical research to fulfil its immense
potential, a strategic and concerted effort is
required. This involves bridging the divide
between theory and practice, prioritizing quality
over quantity, and fostering genuine
collaboration between academia and industry.
Only by addressing these core issues can the
Indian geotechnical community contribute
meaningfully to the nation’s infrastructure
development and achieve a globally competitive
standing.
REFERENCES
1. Terzaghi, K., Soil Mechanics in Engineering Practice. Wiley, New York. 1925.
2. M. Yang, Z. Ai, and B. Deng, ―Experimental and analytical study on uplift loading capacity of
strip plate anchors near sand slope,‖ International Journal of Geomechanics, vol. 20, no. 1, p.
04019136, Jan. 2020, doi: https://doi.org/10.1061/(asce)gm.1943-5622.0001528
3. S. P. Parmar, ―Transition from ASD to LRFD: A comprehensive review of geotechnical design
methods, their evolution, challenges and future scopes,‖ vol. 8, no. 2, pp. 1–18, Mar. 2025, doi:
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.14970156
4. R. Sundaram, S. Gupta, and S. Gupta, ―Advances in the state-of-practice of geotechnical
investigation in India,‖ Indian Geotechnical Journal, vol. 54, no. 1, pp. 109–133, Jul. 2023, doi:
https://doi.org/10.1007/s40098-023-00750-3
5. Central Road Research Institute (CRRI), Geotechnical Engineering Division. 2025. Available at:
https://crridom.gov.in/geotechnical-engineering
6. Bureau of Indian Standards, IS 19235:2025: Geotechnical Engineering Services Requirements.
BIS, New Delhi. 2025.
7. CENGRS, About Us. 2025. Available at: https://www.cengrs.com/about
8. CEG India, Geotechnical Investigation Services. 2025. Available :
https://cegindia.com/geotechnical-investigation
9. CSIR-CBRI, Geotechnical Engineering Patents. 2025. Available at: https://cbri.res.in/the-
institute/performance-indicators/patents/
10. IP India, Annual Report 2022-23. Government of India, New Delhi, 2023. Available:
https://ipindia.gov.in/writereaddata/Portal/IPOAnnualReport/1_114_1_ANNUAL_REPORT_202
223_English.pdf
11. Anil, Akhil, and Anil Joseph. ―Issues and challenges in geotechnical investigations–Case studies
from Cochin, India.‖ In Smart Geotechnics for Smart Societies, pp. 1979-1986. CRC Press, 2023.
12. Plaxis, Various editions. User Manuals. Plaxis, Netherlands. Available:
https://www.civil.iitb.ac.in/~ajuneja/Plaxis%20program/Version%208%20Introductory/Manuals/
English/V84-2_Tutorial.pdf
13. S. P. Parmar, ―Triaxial test on soil—Important insights for stress-controlled and strain-controlled
test,‖ Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research), Feb. 2022, doi:
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.6003832
14. S. P. Parmar, ―Reviewing ground behavior and seismic phenomena during large earthquakes: A
seismological approach,‖ vol. 7, no. 2, pp. 11– 31, Jun. 2024, doi:
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.12177673
15. S. P. Parmar, ―Foundation re-use: Analyzing challenges and procedural approaches -State of the
art,‖ Jul. 10, 2025. DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.15852818
29 © MAT Journals 2025. All Rights Reserved
encouraging an overreliance on idealized
models that lack real-world validation. This
technological gap, coupled with persistent
financial and bureaucratic hurdles, has
contributed to a culture of insular, repetitive,
and at times, ―meaningless‖ research.
However, the future is not without
promise. The legacy of public-sector innovation
and the recent policy shift toward standardizing
professional services and qualifications (as
exemplified by IS 19235:2025) demonstrate a
growing recognition of these issues. For Indian
geotechnical research to fulfil its immense
potential, a strategic and concerted effort is
required. This involves bridging the divide
between theory and practice, prioritizing quality
over quantity, and fostering genuine
collaboration between academia and industry.
Only by addressing these core issues can the
Indian geotechnical community contribute
meaningfully to the nation’s infrastructure
development and achieve a globally competitive
standing.
REFERENCES
1. Terzaghi, K., Soil Mechanics in Engineering Practice. Wiley, New York. 1925.
2. M. Yang, Z. Ai, and B. Deng, ―Experimental and analytical study on uplift loading capacity of
strip plate anchors near sand slope,‖ International Journal of Geomechanics, vol. 20, no. 1, p.
04019136, Jan. 2020, doi: https://doi.org/10.1061/(asce)gm.1943-5622.0001528
3. S. P. Parmar, ―Transition from ASD to LRFD: A comprehensive review of geotechnical design
methods, their evolution, challenges and future scopes,‖ vol. 8, no. 2, pp. 1–18, Mar. 2025, doi:
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.14970156
4. R. Sundaram, S. Gupta, and S. Gupta, ―Advances in the state-of-practice of geotechnical
investigation in India,‖ Indian Geotechnical Journal, vol. 54, no. 1, pp. 109–133, Jul. 2023, doi:
https://doi.org/10.1007/s40098-023-00750-3
5. Central Road Research Institute (CRRI), Geotechnical Engineering Division. 2025. Available at:
https://crridom.gov.in/geotechnical-engineering
6. Bureau of Indian Standards, IS 19235:2025: Geotechnical Engineering Services Requirements.
BIS, New Delhi. 2025.
7. CENGRS, About Us. 2025. Available at: https://www.cengrs.com/about
8. CEG India, Geotechnical Investigation Services. 2025. Available :
https://cegindia.com/geotechnical-investigation
9. CSIR-CBRI, Geotechnical Engineering Patents. 2025. Available at: https://cbri.res.in/the-
institute/performance-indicators/patents/
10. IP India, Annual Report 2022-23. Government of India, New Delhi, 2023. Available:
https://ipindia.gov.in/writereaddata/Portal/IPOAnnualReport/1_114_1_ANNUAL_REPORT_202
223_English.pdf
11. Anil, Akhil, and Anil Joseph. ―Issues and challenges in geotechnical investigations–Case studies
from Cochin, India.‖ In Smart Geotechnics for Smart Societies, pp. 1979-1986. CRC Press, 2023.
12. Plaxis, Various editions. User Manuals. Plaxis, Netherlands. Available:
https://www.civil.iitb.ac.in/~ajuneja/Plaxis%20program/Version%208%20Introductory/Manuals/
English/V84-2_Tutorial.pdf
13. S. P. Parmar, ―Triaxial test on soil—Important insights for stress-controlled and strain-controlled
test,‖ Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research), Feb. 2022, doi:
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.6003832
14. S. P. Parmar, ―Reviewing ground behavior and seismic phenomena during large earthquakes: A
seismological approach,‖ vol. 7, no. 2, pp. 11– 31, Jun. 2024, doi:
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.12177673
15. S. P. Parmar, ―Foundation re-use: Analyzing challenges and procedural approaches -State of the
art,‖ Jul. 10, 2025. DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.15852818
The Current Landscape of Geotechnical Research in India Samirsinh P. Parmar
30 © MAT Journals 2025. All Rights Reserved
16. S. P. Parmar, ―Contemporary approaches to slope stability back analysis,‖ vol. 8, no. 3, pp. 13–
33, Jun. 2025, doi: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.15589554
17. S. Parmar, ―RS & GIS in geotechnical engineering: A comprehensive overview and applications
review article,‖ Engineering Open Access, vol. 2, no. 1, pp. 13–27, Jan. 2024. Available:
https://www.opastpublishers.com/open-access-articles/rs--gis-in-geotechnical-engineering-a-
comprehensive-overview-and-applications.pdf
18. S. P. Parmar, ―A comprehensive analysis of foundation design approaches,‖ vol. 7, no. 3, pp. 28–
37, Dec. 2022, Available: https://matjournals.co.in/index.php/JoGS/article/view/1451
19. S. P. Parmar, ―A review on piled-raft foundation analysis methods and recommendations in
research,‖ Research and Review: Journal of Structural and Building Construction, vol. 1, no. 1,
pp. 1–20, 2025, Available: http://hbrppublication.com/OJS/index.php/RRJSBC/article/view/7180
20. B. V. Sushma, M. K. De, and T. S. Kumar, ―Shallow and deep foundation systems: A new
approach factoring in construction practice, stress interference mapping and sustainability
features,‖ Indian Geotechnical Journal, Sep. 2025, doi: https://doi.org/10.1007/s40098-025-
01357-6
CITE THIS ARTICLE
S. P. Parmar, ―The Current Landscape of Geotechnical Research in India: Trends, Challenges, and
Future Directions‖, Journal of Geotechnical Studies, vol. 10, no. 3, pp. 17-30, Oct. 2025.
30 © MAT Journals 2025. All Rights Reserved
16. S. P. Parmar, ―Contemporary approaches to slope stability back analysis,‖ vol. 8, no. 3, pp. 13–
33, Jun. 2025, doi: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.15589554
17. S. Parmar, ―RS & GIS in geotechnical engineering: A comprehensive overview and applications
review article,‖ Engineering Open Access, vol. 2, no. 1, pp. 13–27, Jan. 2024. Available:
https://www.opastpublishers.com/open-access-articles/rs--gis-in-geotechnical-engineering-a-
comprehensive-overview-and-applications.pdf
18. S. P. Parmar, ―A comprehensive analysis of foundation design approaches,‖ vol. 7, no. 3, pp. 28–
37, Dec. 2022, Available: https://matjournals.co.in/index.php/JoGS/article/view/1451
19. S. P. Parmar, ―A review on piled-raft foundation analysis methods and recommendations in
research,‖ Research and Review: Journal of Structural and Building Construction, vol. 1, no. 1,
pp. 1–20, 2025, Available: http://hbrppublication.com/OJS/index.php/RRJSBC/article/view/7180
20. B. V. Sushma, M. K. De, and T. S. Kumar, ―Shallow and deep foundation systems: A new
approach factoring in construction practice, stress interference mapping and sustainability
features,‖ Indian Geotechnical Journal, Sep. 2025, doi: https://doi.org/10.1007/s40098-025-
01357-6
CITE THIS ARTICLE
S. P. Parmar, ―The Current Landscape of Geotechnical Research in India: Trends, Challenges, and
Future Directions‖, Journal of Geotechnical Studies, vol. 10, no. 3, pp. 17-30, Oct. 2025.
This is to certify that
Published a paper entitled:
“The Current Landscape of Geotechnical Research in India: Trends, Challenges, and
Future Directions
Volume 10, Issue 3, Year 2025.
www.matjournals.com
ARVIND SHARMA
MANAGING DIRECTOR, MAT JOURNALS PVT. LTD.
(e)ISSN: 2581-9763
Certificate of Publication
Published a paper entitled:
“The Current Landscape of Geotechnical Research in India: Trends, Challenges, and
Future Directions
Volume 10, Issue 3, Year 2025.
www.matjournals.com
ARVIND SHARMA
MANAGING DIRECTOR, MAT JOURNALS PVT. LTD.
(e)ISSN: 2581-9763
Certificate of Publication
Categories
ScienceDownload
Download Slideshow Get the original presentation fileQuick Actions
Statistics
- Views 0
- Slides 15
- Age 46 days
Related Slideshows
23
Earthquakes_Type of Faults_Science G8.pptx
OctabellFabila1
31 views
15
Quiz #1 Science 10 in the first quarter for jhs
HendrixAntonniAmante
30 views
9
Astronomy history from long ago till doday
ssuserbd9abe
29 views
9
Great history of astronomy from long ago till today
ssuserbd9abe
27 views
20
EARTHQUAKE-DRILL.powerpoint.............
chalobrido8
30 views
9
History of astronomy from old times to the present times
ssuserbd9abe
30 views