Evolving Scholarship in South Asia: Bibliometric Insights from the University of Kashmir

Abstract

Purpose: The study aims to map and evaluate the research performance, publication trends, thematic focus, and collaboration patterns of the School of Social Sciences at the University of Kashmir over 40 years, highlighting its scholarly contributions and identifying growth opportunities.
Design/methodology/approach: A bibliometric analysis was conducted using data retrieved from Elsevier’s Scopus database for the period 1985–2025, as no indexed publications were available before 1985. The search query targeted the institutional affiliation (AF-ID 60016300) within the Social Sciences subject area, yielding 977 publications. Data were analysed using Biblioshiny and VOSviewer to examine indicators such as annual scientific production, document types, citation patterns, co-authorship networks, institutional collaborations, thematic mapping, and keyword co-occurrence.
Findings: The School of Social Sciences accounts for 5.8% of the University’s total research output, with marked growth in productivity since 2010. Journal articles dominate (77.08%), but only 25.99% of publications are open access. A strong coauthorship network exists, led by a few highly prolific authors, though collaboration is largely national. Thematic analysis reveals a concentration on regional issues (e.g., Kashmir, conflict, climate change) alongside emerging interdisciplinary areas such as deep learning and sustainable development. Citation impact has increased notably post-2010, peaking in 2020.
Originality/value: This is the first comprehensive bibliometric assessment of the School of Social Sciences at the University of Kashmir. By integrating performance indicators, collaboration mapping, and thematic evolution analysis, the study provides actionable insights to enhance research visibility, diversify thematic focus, and foster international partnerships.