Some aspects of technical consultancy organizations in India

Abstract

The growth of technical consultancy organization (TCO) is very much a post Independence phenomenon. Prior to India's Independence the few Indian TCOs that existed acted as sub-contractors to foreign consultants for projects undertaken in India. However in recent times Indian TCOs have flourished in a number of fields ranging from simple technology like food processing to advanced fields like electronics and power generation. As an illustration the entire design and engineering work of major power projects can be completely handled within the country. Many TCOs have also made forays in the international market for technical consultancy services. However, only a few TCOs have made a mark for themselves in the field of international technical consultancy. This study of TCOs is based on published information, a survey of 94 TCOs, and a study of technology export from India done by the first author. It brings out the key aspects of the growth and development of Indian TCOs and the major problems being faced by them.