Firefly-Algorithm (FA) is an eminent nature-inspired swarm-based technique for solving numerous real world global optimization problems. This paper presents an overview of the constraint handling techniques. It also includes hybrid algorithm namely the Stochastic Ranking with Improved Firefly Algorithm (SRIFA) for solving constrained real- world engineering optimization problems. The stochastic ranking approach is broadly used to maintain balance between penalty and fitness functions. FA is extensively used due to its faster convergence than other metaheuristic algorithms. The basic FA is modified by incorporating opposite-based learning and random-scale factor to improve the diversity and performance. Further, SRIFA uses feasibility based rules to maintain balance between penalty and objective functions. SRIFA is experimented to optimize 24 CEC 2006 standard functions and five well-known engineering constrained- optimization design problems
11 from the literature to evaluate and analyze the effectiveness of SRIFA. It can be seen that the overall
12 computational results of SRIFA is better than those of the basic FA. Statistical outcomes of the SRIFA
13 is significantly superior compared to the other evolutionary algorithms and engineering design
14 problems in its performance, quality and efficiency.