The Indian knowledge system is a vast and intricate system that has evolved over thousands of years encompassing diverse fields such as philosophy, science, medicine, mathematics, and literature. It aims to preserve traditional knowledge, conduct interdisciplinary research, and apply Indian knowledge to solve contemporary problems while promoting values like social harmony. Key objectives include pursuing spiritual understanding, holistic education, scientific inquiry, and cultural expression while collaborating globally. The vision is to integrate traditional wisdom with modern knowledge in a balanced approach.

1. Indian Knowledge System
• India developed its knowledge system, tested it through practice, verified and
improved it over thousands of years
• The Indian knowledge system is a vast and intricate tapestry that has evolved over
thousands of years, encompassing diverse fields such as philosophy, science,
medicine, mathematics, literature, and more. This system has been shaped by the
interplay of various civilizations, cultures, and religious traditions that have
flourished on the Indian subcontinent.
• Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) is an innovative cell under Ministry of
Education (MoE) at AICTE, New Delhi. It is established to promote
interdisciplinary research on all aspects of IKS, preserve and disseminate IKS for
further research and societal applications. It will actively engage for spreading the
rich heritage of our country and traditional knowledge in the field of Arts and
literature, Agriculture, Basic Sciences, Engineering & Technology, Architecture,
Management, Economics, etc.

2. • 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.

3. History of Indian Knowledge system
• Before beginning, we must first be clear about the meaning of the word ‘literature’. The
dictionary meaning of literature is given as “written works, especially those considered of
superior or lasting artistic merit”. In the context of India, where there is an unbroken
living oral tradition with a history of more than at least 5,000 years; the meaning of
‘literature’ for our present purpose has to be extended to mean ‘composition’ to include
the works composed and transmitted orally from generation to generation.
• Cāṇakya, in his Arthaśāstra, classifies knowledge that one needs to know into four types:
• ānvīkṣikī – used in the general sense of (contemporary) Science, encompassing logic and
philosophy
• trayī – used to refer to traditional knowledge, to the Vedas in particular
• vārttā – used to represent wealth creation (agriculture and commerce)
• daṇḍanīti – used to represent politics and public administration

4. • The classical literature of India is usually described as chaturdaśa-vidyā-sthānas
(14) consisting of
• the 4 Vedas (namely Ṛgveda, Yajurveda, Sāmaveda, Atharvaṇaveda)
• the 6 Vedāṅgas (namely Śikṣā, Kalpa, Vyākaraṇa, Chhandas, Niruktam and
Jyotiṣa)
• Itihāsa (Rāmāyaṇa and Mahābhārata) and Purāṇa (Viṣṇupurāṇa, Bhāgavata etc.)
• Dharmaśāstra (Manusmṛti, Yājñavalkya-smṛti, Parāśara-smṛti etc.)
• Darśana (Six orthodox and six heterodox systems)
• Nyāya (Logic and Epistemology)
In other places, sometimes the 4 Upavedas, namely Āyurveda (health-care),
Dhanurveda (archery), Gandharva-veda (dance, music etc.) and Sthāpatyaveda
(architecture) are also added to the list, taking the total to 18 (aṣṭādaśa).

5. Vedic Period (1500 BCE - 600 BCE):
• The Vedas: Rigveda, Samaveda, Yajurveda, and Atharvaveda are the
ancient sacred texts that form the foundation of Hindu philosophy and
rituals.
• Upanishads: Philosophical texts that explore the nature of reality, the
self (Atman), and the ultimate reality (Brahman).

6. Introduction to the Vedas:
• It is well-known that the Vedas are the oldest surviving literary works in the whole world.
The Vedas are also sometimes referred to as trayī since there are three types of mantras in
the Vedas; namely those that are metrical compositions, those that are in prose form and
yet others that are set to music. Our tradition says that Bhagavān Veda Vyāsa compiled the
Vedas largely based on these three forms; so that
• Ṛgveda came to be the collection of mantras in metrical form called Ṛks
• Yajurveda came to the collection of mantras in prose form
• Sāmaveda came to be the collection of mantras set to music
• Atharvaṇaveda came to be the collection of mantras due to the Ṛṣis Atharva and Aṅgīras.
Each of the above mentioned Vedas are said to consist of two main parts: saṁhitā (also
referred to as mantra) and Brāhmaṇa. Some scholars opine that the Brāhmaṇas are
elaborations upon the saṁhitā. In few places, we do see that the Brāhmaṇa is said to
consist of two more sub-parts, namely the Āraṇyaka and Upaniṣad. As a result, many
scholars say that Saṁhitā, Brāhmaṇa, Āraṇyaka and Upaniṣad collectively make up the
Vedas.

7. Classical Period (600 BCE - 1200 CE):
• Jainism and Buddhism:
• Founded by Mahavira and Gautama Buddha, respectively.
• Emphasized non-violence, karma, and the path to enlightenment.
• Nyaya and Vaisheshika:
• Nyaya focused on logic and epistemology.
• Vaisheshika dealt with atomism and the nature of the universe.
• Samkhya and Yoga:
• Samkhya explained the metaphysical aspects of existence.
• Yoga provided a practical approach to spiritual realization.
• Mimamsa and Vedanta:
• Mimamsa focused on ritual exegesis.
• Vedanta explored the philosophical interpretation of the Upanishads.

8. Golden Age (320 - 650 CE):
• Mathematics and Astronomy:
• Aryabhata's Aryabhatiya and Brahmagupta's Brahmasphutasiddhanta made
significant contributions.
• Concept of zero and decimal system originated.
• Medicine:
• Charaka and Sushruta composed foundational texts on Ayurveda.
• Susruta is known for surgical advancements.

9. Medieval Period (650 - 1857 CE):
• Islamic Influence:
• Persian and Arab scholars contributed to the Indian knowledge system.
• Al-Biruni studied Indian sciences and philosophy.
• Bhakti and Sufi Movements:
• Emphasized devotion and mystical experiences.
• Kabir, Mirabai, Rumi, and others were prominent figures.

10. Colonial Period (1600s - 1947):
• Impact of British Rule:
• English education system introduced.
• Suppression of traditional knowledge systems.
Post-Independence Era (1947 - present):
• Revival of Traditional Knowledge:
• Efforts to preserve and promote indigenous knowledge.
• Integration of traditional medicine and modern healthcare.
• Science and Technology:
• India has made significant strides in space exploration, information
technology, and other scientific domains.
• Philosophical and Cultural Continuity:
• Continued exploration and reinterpretation of ancient philosophical ideas.
• Rich cultural heritage influencing literature, arts, and societal values.

11. 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 (Bhāratiyu Drishti).
• The Indian knowledge system has a rich and diverse history that spans various
fields such as philosophy, science, mathematics, literature, and more. The
objectives of the Indian knowledge system have evolved over time, but some
overarching goals include:

12. • Spiritual and Philosophical Understanding:
To explore and understand the deeper aspects of life, consciousness, and
existence through philosophical and spiritual inquiry.
• Holistic Education:
To provide a holistic education that integrates various disciplines, emphasizing
not only intellectual development but also emotional, social, and spiritual well-
being.
• Preservation and Transmission of Knowledge:
To preserve traditional knowledge systems and transmit them from one
generation to the next, ensuring continuity and cultural richness.
• Harmony with Nature:
To promote an understanding of the interconnectedness of all living beings and
the importance of living in harmony with nature, as reflected in various aspects
of Indian philosophy.

13. • Social Harmony and Ethics:
To instill values of social justice, compassion, and ethical conduct in individuals, contributing to
the overall well-being of society.
• Innovation and Adaptability:
To encourage innovation while staying rooted in traditional wisdom, fostering a balance between
continuity and adaptation to changing circumstances.
• Scientific Inquiry:
To continue the pursuit of scientific knowledge and technological advancements, building upon
historical contributions in fields such as mathematics, astronomy, and medicine.
• Cultural Expression:
To celebrate and promote diverse forms of cultural expression, including literature, music, dance,
and art, as essential components of the Indian knowledge system.
• Global Collaboration:
To engage with the global community, share knowledge, and contribute to the collective progress
of humanity.

14. Vision:
• To promote interdisciplinary research on all aspects of ‘Indian Knowledge
Systems’, preserve and disseminate ‘Indian Knowledge Systems’ for further
research and societal applications.
• Integration of Traditional Wisdom and Modern Knowledge:
A vision that seeks to integrate the rich heritage of traditional Indian knowledge
with modern advancements, fostering a holistic and balanced approach to
education and understanding.
• Holistic Development:
A focus on holistic development that goes beyond academic excellence,
encompassing emotional, social, and spiritual growth to create well-rounded
individuals.
• Cultural Preservation and Promotion:
A commitment to preserving and promoting India's diverse cultural heritage,
including languages, arts, literature, and various traditional practices.

15. • Innovation and Scientific Advancement:
A vision that encourages a spirit of innovation, scientific inquiry, and technological
advancement, building on historical contributions in fields such as mathematics,
astronomy, and medicine.
• Social Justice and Inclusivity:
A commitment to social justice, inclusivity, and equitable access to education, aiming to
address societal inequalities and empower all segments of the population.
• Environmental Sustainability:
• An emphasis on environmental consciousness and sustainable practices, aligning with
traditional philosophies that recognize the interconnectedness of all living beings and the
importance of living in harmony with nature.
• Lifelong Learning:
• A recognition of the importance of lifelong learning, encouraging individuals to
continually seek knowledge, skills, and personal growth throughout their lives.

16. Mission:
1.Create a database of individuals and organizations who have contributed by way
of Research, Teaching, Publication and Preservation of ancient and contemporary
rich Indian knowledge systems ranging from Art, Music, Dance, Drama, to
Mathematics, Astronomy, Science, Technology, Life Sciences, Environment and
Natural sciences, Health care, Yoga, Law, Jurisprudence, Economics, Social
sciences, Psychology, Philosophy, Management, Linguistics, oral traditions of India,
knowledge hidden in Sanskrit, Prakrit,, Tamil, Pali, etc.
2. Create portal for archival and dissemination of this rich knowledge and also
create an open portal and keep it dynamic and live like wiki, in a PPP mode.
3. Promote and enable further research to address the societal challenges faced today
in several areas including Holistic health, Psychology, Neuroscience, Nature,
Environment, and Sustainable development.

17. 4. To identify scholars and institutions who have worked in various areas of IKS and
their works and to categorize the major areas.
5. To get reports of work done by all people who have contributed to IKS and bring
out regular publications.
6. To promote research in IKS for providing proof of concepts, new knowledge
generation, effective interdisciplinary work useful for society.
7. To create research fellowships or fellowships of visiting Professors/ Scientists/
Scholars: Sanskrit Professors in IITs/ IISERs/IIMs/ Universities and Professors of
Science and Technology in Sanskrit universities.
8. To provide financial assistance to research activities, workshops, seminars and
publications for furthering the cause of IKS. To suggest measures to integrate IKS in
text books and reference books of modern disciplines of knowledge offered at
school and higher education.

18. 9. To establish IKS cells in General universities, Sanskrit Universities, and
other institutions under MoE.
10. To initiate collaboration/ coordination between institutions under Ministry
of Education (MoE), other ministries, departments, independent scholars,
NGOs and private institutions working in the field of IKS to promote
interdisciplinary research involving modern streams and ancient Shastras.
11. To explore and adopt a PPP model, wherever feasible (e.g. creating a wiki
type platform and comprehensive IKS portal).
12. To constitute Expert Groups and committees to plan, execute and oversee
the objectives of IKS division.
13. To take up any step, work, project or activity to further the cause of IKS.

19. Subjects under Indian knowledge system:
1.Vedas and Upanishads:
1. Sacred scriptures that form the basis of Hindu philosophy, covering subjects
like ritual, meditation, cosmology, and metaphysics.
2.Ayurveda:
1. Traditional Indian system of medicine that focuses on holistic well-being,
incorporating principles of natural healing, diet, and herbal remedies.
3.Yoga and Meditation:
1. Ancient practices that involve physical postures, breath control, and
meditation, aiming to achieve physical, mental, and spiritual balance.
4.Philosophy:
1. Various schools of philosophical thought, including Nyaya, Vaisheshika,
Samkhya, Yoga, Mimamsa, and Vedanta, exploring fundamental questions
about existence, consciousness, and reality.

20. 5. Sanskrit Literature:
1. Rich literary traditions encompassing epics like the Mahabharata and
Ramayana, classical dramas, poetry, and scriptures.
6. Classical Dance and Music:
1. Forms of artistic expression such as Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Odissi,
Hindustani, and Carnatic music, which have deep cultural and spiritual
significance.
7. Astrology and Astronomy:
1. Traditional systems of astrology (Jyotisha) and astronomy (Khagolashastra)
that have historical roots in Indian scientific thought.
8. Mathematics:
1. Contributions to mathematics, including the concept of zero, decimal system,
algebra, and trigonometry, found in ancient texts like the
Brahmasphutasiddhanta.

21. 9. Arthashastra:
1. Ancient treatises on politics, governance, and economics, such as Kautilya's
Arthashastra.
10. Dharma Shastra:
1. Texts providing guidelines on ethical and moral conduct, including the
Manusmriti.
11. Environmental Science:
1. Traditional ecological knowledge and practices emphasizing sustainability and
harmony with nature.
12. Indian Classical Languages:
1. Study of languages like Sanskrit, Pali, Tamil, and others that have played a
significant role in shaping cultural and intellectual traditions.

22. 13. History and Epigraphy:
1. Exploration of India's historical past through the study of inscriptions, ancient
texts, and archaeological findings.
14. Political Science and Governance:
1. Ancient texts on political philosophy and governance, including works by
Chanakya and others.
15. Dialectical Traditions:
1. Debates and discussions on various topics, as seen in texts like the Sutras and
commentaries.

23. 14. Folk Traditions:
• Study of diverse folk traditions, including folk art, music, dance, and oral
storytelling.
It's important to recognize that the Indian knowledge system is dynamic, and
contemporary education in India includes a wide range of subjects that go beyond
traditional domains, incorporating modern sciences, technology, and humanities.
The subjects listed here reflect a historical and cultural perspective on the diverse
knowledge traditions of India.

24. Guidelines by the Ministry and Regulatory
Bodies:
• For achieving the goals of NEP 2020, activities have been undertaken by the
Ministry, Regulatory Bodies like UGC & AICTE and HEIs.
• Guidelines for Incorporating Indian Knowledge in Higher Education
Curricula has been issued on 13.06.2023:
• It emphasizes on the promotion of Indian Languages, Arts and Culture, and tries to
remove the discontinuity in the flow of Indian Knowledge System (lKS) by
integrating IKS into curriculums at all levels of education. It prescribes that every
student enrolled in a UG or PG programme should be encouraged to take credit
courses in IKS amounting in all to at least 5% of the total mandated credits
(interested students may be allowed to take a larger fraction of the total mandated
credits). At least 50% of the credits apportioned to the IKS should be related to the
major discipline and should be accounted for the credits assigned to the major
discipline. The medium of instruction for the IKS courses could be any of the
Indian languages.

25. • Guidelines for Training/Orientation of Faculty on Indian Knowledge System
(IKS) has been issued on 13.04.2023:
• It enables the faculties to generate a positive attitude towards IKS and promote
interest in knowing and exploring more through induction programs and refresher
courses.
• Guidelines for Empanelment of Artists/Artisans–in–Residence in Higher
Educational Institutions has been issued on 08.05.2023:
• To create collaboration between Artists and HEIs, to develop an effective structure
of art education, involving skilled Kala Gurus in teaching, research, and other
academic activities on a regular basis, which will synergize the artistic experience
with the conventional education to be more productive and beneficial for the
students.

26. • Guidelines for the introduction of courses based on Indian heritage and
culture have been issued on 08.05.2023:
• To make people familiar with the rich cultural and intellectual heritage of India
and offer short term multi-tier credit based modular programme with multiple
entry and exit based on Indian heritage and culture. It includes dissemination and
imparting of knowledge of various dimensions of learning in the spheres of
Universal human values, Vedic Maths, Yoga, Ayurveda, Sanskrit, Indian
Languages, sacrosanct religious regions located in the Indian subcontinent,
Archaeological sites and monuments, Heritage of India, Indian Literature, Indian
Sculpture, Indian Music and dance forms, Drama, Visual Arts, Performing Arts,
Crafts and Craftsmanship etc. The IKS has made provision has been established
for awarding minor degree to students who complete 18 to 20 credits in IKS.

27. • Mandatory credit component: Universities may introduce learner credits or IKS
electives in all courses for imbibing learners across all disciplines with traditional
knowledge and pride. UGC has already made it mandatory to include 5% of the
total credits in the curriculum related to the IKS courses. AICTE has introduced
IKS course for the first-year students in Engineering colleges.
• Designing regional courses: States/UTs may document their respective native
cultures, arts, crafts, traditions, architecture, food habits, languages, etc to tailor
dedicated courses for learners.
• Scope of collaborations: Given the globalized history of India, multidisciplinary
courses designed by universities may consider the scope of collaborating
internationally wherever possible. For example, NCERT is undertaking inclusion
of text highlighting historical ties between India and Indonesia at school level.
• Online/ODL courses: Existing IKS courses may be synced to digital learning
platforms (SWAYAM, NPTEL) and via ODL for learners across geographies.

28. • Recruitment:
• Entrance exam syllabus may be launched as a subject for testing under UGC-NET to create a
cadre of specialized IKS faculty and researchers.
• Regularized faculty training: Modules for training and orientation of educators may be designed to
improve quality of classroom delivery on IKS courses. Establishment of specialized teacher
training centers for training teachers in specialized topics of the Indian Knowledge Systems by
specialized IKS faculty.
• Provide hands on learning opportunities: IKS Internships – Provide avenues for student
internships/apprenticeships and provide counselling to IKS learners in convergence with
BGSamvahan Karyakram, the internship programme launched by the IKS Division of MoE.
Hands-on-workshops: Provide opportunities for students to learn various skills in hands on
workshops from the experts. Hackathons: Conduct specialized IKS themed Hackathons and
include IKS related topics in the Smart India Hackathon in synergy with the topics given by IKS
Division of MoE.
• Translation of academic content: Translation of Teaching Learning Materials for all disciplines into
local languages may be done by IKS Centres to engage diverse learners & preserve indigenous
identity

29. Support research and innovation in IKS:
• Priority research funding - Dedicated research grants may be proposed through
NRF in the future to boost IKS-related research proposals.
• Make catalytic grants that encourage original, serious, and deep scholarly research
in the IKS and rejuvenate IKS research in India.
• Introduce IKS into the prestigious schemes such as PMRF for attracting best
talent into the interdisciplinary IKS research.
• Promote innovation in the IKS through various grand national challenges,
national competitions, and hackathons and incentivizing the innovation.

30. • International collaborations – Institutions may access global collaborations
through institutions such as Indian Council of Historical Research (ICHR) for
conducting India-centric research. Include IKS as a theme in the ASEAN
fellowships to foster collaborations among scholars and nurture next generation of
scholars.
• Fund institutional support mechanisms: Establish institutional support
mechanisms through the establishment of the IKS centers which will be catalysts
for initiating research, education, and outreach activities in various parts of the
country. Provide initial seed funding for the establishment of IKS Centers in
various HEIs. Provide additional funding to establish global Centers of Excellence
in focused areas.

31. • Promote Jan Bhagidari: Reach out to public through various mechanisms
(MyGOV competitions, conferences, exhibitions, programs on radio and
television, social media, etc) to disseminate and popularize authentic IKS
knowledge to develop informed and confident citizenry. Involve people in various
IKS initiatives through Jan Bhagidari programs similar to citizen science
initiatives.
• Create employment opportunities: Create employment opportunities for youth
through skill based IKS based programs such as IKS based beautician and
cosmetician training programs, Ayurveda based dietician programs, Gandhashastra
based perfumery, among many uniquely IKS based skills. Promote heritage
technology by bringing technology solutions to showcase the Indian heritage to
Indians and the world. Aim to capture 10% of the world tourism market and
provide massive employment opportunities to our youth.

32. Conclusion
• In conclusion, the Indian knowledge system is a rich and diverse tapestry that has evolved
over millennia, blending ancient wisdom with ongoing contributions in various fields.
Rooted in a profound philosophical and spiritual foundation, the Indian knowledge system
encompasses a wide array of subjects, including philosophy, arts, sciences, literature, and
more.
• Throughout history, this knowledge system has demonstrated a holistic approach to
education, emphasizing not only intellectual pursuits but also emotional, social, and
spiritual well-being. It has produced significant advancements in areas like mathematics,
astronomy, medicine, and philosophy, contributing to the global pool of human
knowledge.
• As India engages with the global community, the Indian knowledge system contributes to
the world's diversity of thought, fostering collaborations and exchanges that enrich the
collective human experience. Ultimately, the Indian knowledge system represents a
journey of continuous learning, exploration, and adaptation, reflecting the dynamic nature
of knowledge itself.