BACKGROUND: Inguinal hernia repair using mesh is one of the most frequently performed operations in general surgery. Traditionally, repair of an inguinal hernia has been by an open method, but laparoscopic techniques have recently been introduced and are increasing in popularity. The mesh can be placed using an open Lichtenstein technique or by laparoscopic (TAPP/ TEP) approach. The present study aims to compare early and late outcomes following laparoscopic (TAPP/ TEP) mesh repair with Conventional open Lichtenstein repair method in management of inguinal hernia. AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: The aim of our study was to compare the effectiveness and safety of Laparoscopic (TAPP/TEP) and conventional open repair (Lichtenstein) in the treatment of inguinal hernia and their results were studied and compared in terms of various parameters like operating time, complications, post–operative pain, post–operative recovery, cost effectiveness and rate of recurrence. METHODS: 100 cases of inguinal hernia admitted in Subharti medical college and hospital, Meerut from the period of October 2014 to January 2016 were selected on the basis of the non–probability (purposive) sampling method. Patients with uncomplicated direct and indirect inguinal hernias treated by open or laparoscopic (TEP /TAPP) method were included. 50 cases each was operated by Laparoscopic (TEP / TAPP) repair and open Lichtenstein hernia repair. Outcomes were compared in demographics and intra–operative details with post–operative data. RESULTS: In the post operative period, wound infection developed in 2 case of open Lichtenstein hernioplasty. Hematoma at the operated site was found in each 1 case of open Lichtenstein hernioplasty & Laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair. Intra–operative peritoneal tear was seen in 5 case of Laparoscopic repair. The duration of hospitalization was 6.1 days (Mean) in open hernioplasty group where as 3.74 days in the laparoscopic group. The duration for surgery was significantly longer in the laparoscopic group around 34.96 mins in unilateral repair and 46.30 mins in Bilateral inguinal hernia repair. The cost of surgery was 5524 INR (Mean) in open Lichtenstein repair as compared to 7406 INR in Laparoscopic repair. The difference in cost of surgery was around 1882 INR, laparoscopic repair being costlier than open surgery. It may be due to use of laparoscopic instruments and general anaesthesia in case of laparoscopic repair of inguinal hernia as compared to spinal anaesthesia in open Lichtenstein repair. Pain was assessed using verbal pain rating scale. Severe pain was complained in 5 cases of open surgery as compared to none in laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair. 40 cases of laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair had mild pain post–operatively, as compared to 25 cases in open surgery. Rest of the cases was of Moderate pain. There was 1 recurrence in the laparoscopic hernia repair group as compared to 2 cases in open Lichtenstein repair group. CONCLUSIONS: Since evidence in the literature does not point to either laparoscopic or open approaches, the clear superior procedure, surgeon preference and circumstantial influences will probably continue to dictate the approach employed in inguinal hernia repair. Laparoscopic TEP repair was safe with less complications, early hospital discharge and return to routine activities.