Indian Knowledge System
Indian Knowledge System
B. Tech students might study the Indian Knowledge System (IKS) for several reasons:
1. Cultural Understanding: IKS offers insights into India's rich cultural heritage,
including ancient philosophies, sciences, and technologies. This knowledge can
enhance students' appreciation of their cultural roots and historical context.
2. Interdisciplinary Learning: Integrating IKS with technical education can foster
interdisciplinary learning. It can offer alternative approaches to problem-solving,
innovation, and technology that might not be covered in conventional curricula.
3. Traditional Wisdom and Innovation: Many traditional Indian practices and
knowledge systems, such as Ayurveda, Vastu Shastra, and traditional engineering
techniques, have inspired modern innovations. Understanding these can provide
valuable perspectives for new technological developments.
4. Ethics and Values: Indian Knowledge Systems often incorporate ethical
considerations and holistic approaches that can guide future engineers in their
professional and personal lives, emphasizing the importance of responsible and
sustainable practices.
5. Global Perspective: In a globalized world, having a diverse knowledge base can be
advantageous. Familiarity with IKS can offer a unique perspective that sets students
apart in international contexts.
6. Research Opportunities: There is growing interest in how traditional knowledge can
complement modern science and technology. Students may find opportunities to
contribute to research that explores these intersections.
Module-1
1.1 Introduction
The Indian Knowledge System (IKS) is the systematic transmission of knowledge from one
generation to next generation. It is a structured system and a process of knowledge transfer
rather than a tradition. The Indian Knowledge System is based on the Vedic literature, the
Upanishads, the Vedas, and the Upvedas. The NEP-2020 (National Education Policy)
recognizes this rich heritage of ancient and eternal Indian knowledge and thought as a
guiding principle. The Indian Knowledge Systems comprise of Jnan, Vignan, and Jeevan
Darshan that have evolved out of experience, observation, experimentation, and rigorous
analysis. This tradition of validating and putting into practice has impacted our education,
arts, administration, law, justice, health, manufacturing, and commerce. This has influenced
classical and other languages of Bharat, that were transmitted through textual, oral, and
artistic traditions. It includes knowledge from ancient India and, its successes and challenges,
and a sense of India’s future aspirations specific to education, health, environment and indeed
all aspects of life.
Objectives of Indian knowledge system:
Indian knowledge system aims to support and facilitate further research to solve the
contemporary societal issues in several fields such as Holistic health, Psychology,
Neuroscience, Nature, Environment & Sustainable development. The primary aim of drawing
from the past and integration of the Indian knowledge systems is to solve the contemporary
and emerging problems of India and world by using our ancient knowledge systems
represented by uninterrupted tradition of knowledge transfer and unique point of view
(Bhartiya Drishti).
Cultural Heritage: IKS represents a vast body of knowledge accumulated over thousands of
years in areas like philosophy, science, medicine, mathematics, and art. Understanding this
helps in preserving and appreciating India’s rich cultural and intellectual heritage.
Holistic Perspectives: IKS offers holistic perspectives on life, emphasizing harmony
between humans, nature, and the cosmos. This contrasts with more reductionist approaches
and provides valuable insights for contemporary global challenges like environmental
sustainability and mental well-being.
Innovative Contributions: India has made significant contributions to global knowledge,
such as in mathematics (e.g., the concept of zero), astronomy, Ayurveda, and yoga. Studying
these contributions allows for a better understanding of their origins and relevance today.
Interdisciplinary Learning: IKS is inherently interdisciplinary, integrating philosophy,
ethics, science, and arts. This fosters a broader, interconnected way of thinking, which is
increasingly valuable in solving complex modern problems.
Global Influence: IKS has influenced many other cultures and knowledge systems around
the world. Studying it helps in understanding these global connections and the flow of
knowledge across cultures.
: For a long time, many indigenous knowledge systems were overshadowed by Western
education models. Studying IKS is part of a broader effort to reclaim and reintegrate
indigenous knowledge into mainstream education and research. Educational Reforms: In the
context of educational reforms in India, integrating IKS into the curriculum aligns with
efforts to make education more relevant to Indian students, fostering a sense of identity and
pride in their heritage.