The present study investigates growth and complexity of research publications from 1972 to 1996. Through this study the author attempts to evaluate the status of the various geographic regions in promoting distance education activities by means of heir publication data. The study found the highest level of publication in the last ten years. Environmental factors influenced the growth of publication. Besides traditional research, the topics such as information technology, on-line delivery, R&D work etc., got priority in publication. The author proposes for collaborative research studies by open/distance education institutions in the country.