Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) are the traditional knowledge and ideas developed in India over many years. It includes things like Ayurveda, Yoga, Vedic Maths, astronomy, philosophy, art, farming, and eco-friendly living.
The Indian government, through the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, is now trying to include IKS in schools and colleges so students can learn about India’s rich history and use it in their future careers.
In this blog, we’ll understand what Indian Knowledge Systems really are, where they came from, what areas they cover, and why they’re important in today’s education system.
What is Indian Knowledge System (IKS)
Indian Knowledge Systems, or IKS, means the old and traditional knowledge that was developed in India over many years. It includes things like Ayurveda (traditional medicine), Yoga, Vedic Maths, Astronomy, Literature, Music, Art, Agriculture, and Architecture.
In easy words, IKS is how people in ancient India understood the world and found ways to live a better life. This knowledge was shared from one generation to another, sometimes by speaking, and sometimes by writing in old languages like Sanskrit and Tamil.
History and Origin of Indian Knowledge Systems
The roots of Indian Knowledge Systems go back thousands of years — even before written history. This knowledge started during the Vedic period, when people began observing nature, the stars, the human body, and daily life closely. They shared their ideas through spoken words, which later got written down in texts like the Vedas, Upanishads, and other ancient scriptures.
Over time, Indian thinkers, scientists, and scholars made many discoveries. People like Aryabhata (astronomy and maths), Charaka (medicine), Sushruta (surgery), Panini (grammar), and many others helped build this huge knowledge system.
IKS kept growing through different ages — from the Mauryan and Gupta periods to the times of Nalanda and Takshashila universities, where students from around the world came to learn.
Sadly, during foreign invasions and colonial rule, much of this knowledge was ignored or forgotten. But now, India is once again trying to revive and promote this rich heritage through education and research.
Key Areas Covered Under Indian Knowledge Systems
Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) include many different types of knowledge that were used in ancient India. This knowledge was connected to daily life and helped people live better, healthier, and more balanced lives.
Let’s look at some of the main areas IKS covers:
- Philosophy:
Ancient Indian thinkers believed in living a good and honest life. Different schools like Vedanta, Samkhya, and Yoga taught about values, self-control, and understanding the self. - Science and Technology:
India made big contributions in areas like maths, astronomy, metal work, medicine (Ayurveda), and building design. Ideas like zero, surgeries, and star studies came from here. - Arts and Culture:
Dance, music, painting, crafts, and literature were all part of IKS. These art forms showed India’s creative side and are still practiced today. - Health and Wellness:
IKS focused on complete well-being. Ayurveda, yoga, and meditation were used to stay healthy, both physically and mentally. - Governance and Polity:
Ancient texts like the Arthashastra showed how kings and leaders managed the country, made laws, and took care of the people. - Language and Literature:
Languages like Sanskrit, Pali, and Prakrit were used to write poems, books, and important ideas. These languages are still studied for their deep meaning. - Education:
In the olden days, students lived and learned with their teachers in the Gurukula They were taught not just subjects, but also discipline and values. - Environment:
People lived close to nature and followed eco-friendly habits. They protected trees, rivers, and animals, and used natural resources wisely. - Agriculture:
Farming was done using natural methods. People used organic fertilizers, saved rainwater, and grew crops in a way that protected the soil.
Key principles of IKS
Indian Knowledge Systems are based on some core ideas that make them different from modern education. Here are some of the main principles of IKS:
- Holistic Approach:
IKS believes in looking at the whole picture. It doesn’t separate body, mind, and soul. Everything is connected: health, nature, education, and daily life. - Harmony with Nature:
Ancient Indians believed that we should live in balance with nature. They respected rivers, animals, trees, and the environment, and used natural resources carefully. - Value-Based Learning:
IKS gives importance to values like truth, kindness, discipline, and respect. Learning was not just about books, but also about building good character. - Practical Knowledge:
The focus was on learning through experience. Whether it was farming, medicine, or art, students learned by doing, not just reading. - Spiritual and Scientific Together:
IKS mixes spiritual wisdom with science. It teaches that logic and belief can go hand in hand, and both are important for a balanced life. - Self-Realization:
Many Indian philosophies taught that the goal of life is to understand yourself better and live with peace and purpose.
Benefits of Learning IKS for Students
- Builds cultural awareness: IKS helps students understand India’s deep cultural roots and achievements. It makes them feel proud of their heritage and identity.
- Makes learning more meaningful: Subjects like Ayurveda, Yoga, Vedic Mathematics, and ancient literature are not only interesting but also add real value to what students learn in school.
- Develops strong moral values: IKS gives importance to values like truth, discipline, respect, and harmony. These are essential for building good character and leading a responsible life.
- Boosts critical and creative thinking: Many Indian philosophies encourage self-reflection and logical thinking. This helps students improve their problem-solving and decision-making skills.
- Promotes health and well-being: Practices like yoga, meditation, and natural healing methods support both physical and mental health.
- Encourages sustainable living: IKS teaches students how to live in harmony with nature, use resources wisely, and adopt eco-friendly habits.
- Inspires innovation: Traditional knowledge can spark new ideas. By combining ancient wisdom with modern thinking, students can find creative solutions to today’s problems.
Government Initiatives to Promote IKS
In recent years, the Indian government has taken several steps to bring Indian Knowledge Systems back into focus. The aim is to make students aware of India’s rich knowledge traditions and to include IKS in the modern education system.
Here are some key initiatives taken by the government:
- National Education Policy (NEP) 2020:
NEP 2020 strongly supports the integration of IKS into school and college curricula. It encourages students to learn about India’s ancient wisdom alongside modern subjects. - Establishment of IKS Division:
The Ministry of Education has created a special division under AICTE (All India Council for Technical Education) called the Indian Knowledge Systems Division. This body works to promote research, education, and awareness about IKS in schools, colleges, and universities. - Inclusion in Textbooks and Courses:
NCERT and other boards are gradually adding IKS-based topics to textbooks. Many universities have also introduced certificate and elective courses on subjects like Ayurveda, Vedic maths, Yoga, Sanskrit, and Indian philosophy. - Research and Innovation Grants:
The government is funding research projects to study, document, and apply traditional knowledge in fields like medicine, agriculture, architecture, and ecology. - Online Learning and Workshops:
Webinars, online courses, and workshops are being held regularly to train teachers and students in various aspects of IKS.
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Final Thoughts
Indian Knowledge Systems are not just old ideas from the past; they are a big part of our culture and identity. They teach us how to live better, think clearly, stay healthy, and respect nature.
IKS helps us slow down and learn useful lessons from our roots. With support from the government and the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, this ancient knowledge is coming back into our schools and colleges.
As students, learning about IKS can help you grow in many ways. It’s not just about scoring marks, it’s about becoming a better and more aware person. IKS reminds us that sometimes, looking back can help us move forward in the best way.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What is the full form of IKS?
Ans: IKS stands for Indian Knowledge Systems. It includes the traditional knowledge and wisdom developed in India over thousands of years.
Q2. Is IKS only about history or religion?
Q3. Why is IKS important for students?
Ans: IKS helps students understand their culture, learn important values, think creatively, and live in a balanced way.
Q4. How is the Indian government promoting IKS?
Ans: Through the NEP 2020, the creation of the IKS Division under AICTE, new textbooks, research grants, and online workshops.
Q5. Can IKS be used in modern education?
Ans: Yes. Many schools and colleges are now adding IKS topics to their subjects to give students a complete and rooted education.
