Exploring Industry 5.0 hurdles and strategies to support sustainable development and realize future growth aspirations: a comprehensive analysis

Purpose The study aims to identify the critical hurdles hindering the implementation of Industry 5.0 in the Indian manufacturing sector and proposes strategic measures for overcoming these hurdles, aiming to facilitate a transition towards a sustainable, technologically advanced manufacturing ecosystem. The study underscores the importance of Industry 5.0 in achieving sustainable development by integrating human-centric technologies and practices. Design/methodology/approach The study uses the novel combination of the best-worst method (BWM) and the combined compromise solution (CoCoSo) methodology to systematically identify, analyse and rank the hurdles and mitigating strategies for Industry 5.0 adoption. Through an extensive literature review and expert inputs, the study offers a comprehensive analysis grounded in the Indian manufacturing context. Findings The primary results indicate that technical barriers, specifically those related to data management and organizational concerns, particularly resistance from employees, are of utmost importance. At the same time, although present, the impact of economic and environmental challenges is comparatively less. The study suggests that the implementation of specific strategies, namely financial capability-based planning, management change and public-private partnerships, can effectively overcome these obstacles. Originality/value The study contributes novel insights into the complexities of adopting Industry 5.0 within developing economies like India. It presents a unique application of the BWM and CoCoSo methodologies to the field, offering a structured framework for strategic planning and decision-making in Industry 5.0 adoption. The study emphasizes the potential of Industry 5.0 to drive sustainable development, highlighting innovation strategies for overcoming implementation barriers.