Role of Indian Knowledge System in Modern Education and Innovation

Abstract

Indian knowledge system refers to a rich collection of intellectual traditions that have evolved from over thousands of years. It encompasses knowledge related to education, philosophy, science, medicine, mathematics, ecology, art, environment, social life, governance, and spirituality. Traditionally knowledge was passed both formally and informally to the students. At first the students learned through oral methods, post which they practiced by writing. Education followed a Guru-Shishya paddhati, where both lived and learned together in places called gurukuls. Knowledge was preserved in Vedas, Upanishads, Artha shastras, Yoga Sutras, Charaka Samhita and Sushruta Samhitas, which are considered some of the greatest key traditional sources. Modern education incorporates science and technology to make the process of teaching and learning more effective and meaningful. Involvement of IKS in Education can make learning very interesting and is also beneficial in preserving the Indian culture and traditions. The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 includes IKS from primary classes to higher education. IKS supports a holistic approach as it integrates both body and mind. It also helps in critical thinking and self-inquiry. Well-being practices such as Yoga and meditation are gaining world recognition. Ancient mathematics (invention of zero and decimal system) laid the foundation for modern computation. Modern education strongly emphasizes on teacher-learner interaction which is already a core concept traditional Indian education system. NEP (2020) promotes multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary education. Integration of IKS into STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) makes learning more culturally strong, interdisciplinary, and practical too. The purpose of the study is to find out the role of IKS in modern education and innovation. Content analysis and a review of literature are the different methods to write this paper. Post which it is established that inclusion of IKS in modern education and innovation help students connect to their values and traditions more effectively.