Abstract:

The Indian Knowledge System (IKS) represents one of the oldest and most comprehensive intellectual traditions in human history, encompassing a vast body of wisdom in fields such as mathematics, astronomy, medicine, philosophy, linguistics, governance, and ethics. Rooted in ancient texts like the Vedas, Upanishads, Arthashastra, and works of scholars such as Aryabhata, Charaka, and Panini, IKS has historically shaped India's cultural, scientific, and educational landscape. However, with the advent of colonial education and the rapid spread of Western paradigms, much of this indigenous knowledge was sidelined and undervalued. The introduction of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 has reignited interest in integrating IKS into mainstream education, recognising its potential to nurture holistic learners with strong ethical foundations. This paper explores the conceptual basis of IKS, its historical evolution, and its growing relevance in the modern educational ecosystem. It examines how traditional knowledge can complement contemporary learning by promoting critical thinking, sustainability, mental well-being, and value-based education. A qualitative analysis approach is used, drawing on secondary literature and policy documents to assess the role of IKS in shaping twenty-first century education. The findings suggest that thoughtful integration of IKS in curricula can bridge the gap between traditional wisdom and modern science, fostering culturally rooted yet globally competitive learners. The paper concludes that reviving IKS is not about returning to the past but about enriching present and future learning systems with time-tested insights that remain remarkably relevant today.

Keywords:

Indian Knowledge System, Modern Education, NEP 2020, Holistic Learning, Cultural Heritage, Curriculum Integration

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