In July 2023, ZIBS Assistant Professor Sheikh Fayaz Ahmad published a groundbreaking research paper titled Regional Studies and Frugal Innovation: A Missing Link? in Regional Studies. The paper, co-authored by Dr. Rhiannon Pugh from Lund University, Prof. WU Xiaobo from Zhejiang University, and Prof. Soumodip Sarkar from the University of Evora, addresses the vital connection between frugal innovation and regional innovation systems.
Regional Studies is an internationally renowned journal in the fields of regional studies, regional development, and urban development. It is also recognized as a 4 journal by the Association of Business Schools (ABS) in the UK.
Abstract
This research sheds light on the importance of frugal innovation as a response to resource scarcity and environmental challenges, especially in emerging economies and developing nations. The paper explores how frugal innovation offers cost-effective solutions without compromising quality and meets the needs of resource-constrained consumers. By examining frugal innovations in the context of Kashmir during the COVID-19 pandemic, the study highlights the region's unique approach to repurposing materials, fostering regional self-reliance, and utilizing social media for knowledge exchange.
The findings of this research have far-reaching implications for sustainable and inclusive modes of innovation in various regions worldwide. Frugal innovation's emphasis on sustainability and inclusivity offers an alternative approach to traditional innovation models driven by affluence and abundance. This research opens new avenues for understanding the potential of frugal innovation as a powerful tool for circular economy development and resilience in diverse regional settings.
Sheikh Fayaz Ahmad
Assistant Professor of ZIBS
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Dr. Sheikh Fayaz holds M.Phil and PhD from the Centre for Studies in Science Policy, Jawaharlal Nehru University and Postdoc from Zhejiang University. He is co-editor of the book titled Informal Sector Innovations: Insights from Global South, (Routledge, Taylor and Francis, 2015). His major research interests include Alternative Innovation Models, Digital Frugal Innovations, Regional Development and China Innovation. Journals such as Oxford Development Studies, International Planning and Development Review, Current Science, Journal of Rural Studies and Science Technology and Society have published some of his recent papers. He also contributed to the Handbook on Alternative Theories of Innovation (Edward Elgar, 2021) and the Handbook on Frugal Innovations (Edward Elgar, 2022).
