A bibliometric analysis on fundamental motor skill in Indian children

Abstract

This bibliometric analysis explores the research landscape on Fundamental Motor Skill (FMS) proficiency among Indian children between 2020 and 2025. Drawing from 97 peer-reviewed journal documents indexed in Scopus, the study highlights a growing scholarly interest in FMS as a critical foundation for children's physical, cognitive, and psychosocial development. The analysis identifies trends in publication volume, subject areas, influential journals, and geographic contributions. Findings reveal that most studies are concentrated in the fields of health sciences, medicine, psychology, and social sciences, with India contributing the majority of publications. Despite this rise in academic focus, several critical gaps persist. The research remains heavily urban-centric, with limited representation of rural, tribal, and economically disadvantaged populations. There is also a lack of longitudinal and intervention-based studies, inadequate cultural adaptation of motor assessment tools, and minimal research addressing gender disparities or children with disabilities. Furthermore, integration with school curricula and national physical activity programs such as Fit India and Khelo India is insufficient. The absence of international collaboration and the underutilization of modern technology further limit the field’s growth. This study emphasizes the need for inclusive, interdisciplinary, and policy-aligned research to foster equitable and effective motor skill development for all Indian children. These insights are crucial for shaping future research, education policies, and community-based intervention strategies that promote holistic child development.