Introduction : India has always been recognized globally as a prosperous and culturally rich nation, with a long history of knowledge systems and intellectual achievements. However, the British rule and their policies had a detrimental impact on India's education system and led to a decline in its prosperity. In recent years, the concept of Indian Knowledge System (IKS) has gained momentum, aiming to revive India's ancient traditions and wisdom. Under the National Education Policy (NEP), India is embarking on a transformative journey to restructure its education system based on Indian knowledge traditions. This article explores the significance of IKS and its potential to bring about revolutionary changes in India.
India's Prosperity and Ancient Knowledge System :
Throughout history, India's prosperity was evident in its comprehensive human development, including material and spiritual aspects. The country attracted students and travelers from around the world who sought knowledge and skills. Indian culture and social life set a unique example globally, rooted in the belief that the world is one family. India's generosity and inclusiveness welcomed people from all corners of the world. This cultural ethos, combined with ancient knowledge, literature, and traditions, has shaped India's identity and contributed to its prosperity.
One of the key pillars of India's ancient knowledge systems is the Vedic literature. The Vedic texts, comprising the Rigveda, Samaveda, Yajurveda, and Atharvaveda, hold immense importance in Indian culture and spirituality. These texts contain a vast repository of knowledge, encompassing various disciplines such as philosophy, science, mathematics, linguistics, astronomy, and more.
The Vedic literature serves as a guiding light, providing insights into the profound understanding and wisdom of ancient Indian sages. It offers profound philosophical teachings, ethical principles, and practical knowledge that have shaped the Indian way of life for millennia. The hymns, rituals, and philosophical concepts found in the Vedas have influenced diverse fields, including literature, arts, music, architecture, and governance.
The British Empire and Western Education : A Curse on India's Development :
While previous invasions had primarily affected India politically, the British rule had a catastrophic effect on Indian society, education, culture, and daily life. British rulers aimed to break India's cultural and knowledge traditions, promoting a "black British" mindset among Indians. The British education system replaced the ancient Indian education system, eroding confidence, independent thinking, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit. Even after gaining independence, India continued with the Western education system, further hindering its progress. As a result, India's share in the world's GDP diminished significantly.
Recognizing the Need for Change :
Scholars and thinkers have long analyzed India's predicament, attributing the root cause to its education system. The Western teaching method produced individuals with a subservient mentality, stifling their potential. Criticism of Indian knowledge traditions undermined their value and relevance. However, in recent decades, the idea of Indian Knowledge System has gained traction, prompting leading educationists and scientists to explore its potential. The Indian government, acknowledging the importance of reviving indigenous knowledge, formulated the National Education Policy.
Revolutionizing Education through Indian Knowledge System :
The National Education Policy NEP2020 envisions a monumental revolution in India's education sector, underpinned by Indian Knowledge System. India possesses an immense wealth of knowledge, with numerous manuscripts yet to be explored. The Indian knowledge tradition, described as the 14 Vidya and 64 Kala, encompasses philosophy, practical education, arts, skills, craftsmanship, agriculture, health, and science. These traditions will be studied, adapted, and integrated into modern life, heralding transformative changes in every sphere.
The Role of Indian Knowledge System in India's Future :
The implementation of Indian Knowledge System will not only revolutionize education but also rejuvenate the Indian psyche and way of life. By infusing fundamental Indian thought, knowledge, tradition, art, skills, craftsmanship, and management into various sectors, India will undergo a profound transformation. The IKS sector is expected to generate over 5 million jobs in the coming decades, boosting India's self-esteem and self-respect.
Challenges and Opportunities:
The successful integration of Indian knowledge traditions into contemporary society requires dedicated scholars, experts, teachers, and consultants. The challenge lies in presenting ancient knowledge in a modern format and conducting comprehensive research on texts such as the Bhagavad Gita. By studying and presenting Indian Knowledge System effectively, India can provide valuable insights not only for its own citizens but also for the world at large. The Bhishma School of Indian Knowledge System (BSIKS) is actively contributing to this cause, offering various courses and resources to promote Indian knowledge.
Conclusion:
India's journey to revitalize itself through Indian Knowledge System is poised to bring about significant changes in the country. By embracing its rich cultural heritage and knowledge traditions, India can overcome the legacy of British rule and regain its rightful place as a prosperous nation. The transformation of the education sector, guided by IKS, will play a pivotal role in this revival, ushering in a new era of mental freedom and intellectual empowerment. As India progresses, its ancient wisdom will find practical application, benefiting not only its citizens but also the global community.
What are the Opportunities in Indian Knowledge System?
Indian Knowledge System offers a wide range of career, job, professional, business, research, social, and cultural opportunities.
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Bhishma School of Indian Knowledge System conducts various Online Courses designed to offer you an enriching academic journey into the depths of ancient Indian wisdom and traditions. With our four specialized programs, we provide you with an opportunity to become a certified expert in your chosen field.
Learn more about Courses, Programs and Workshops on Indian Knowledge System https://www.bhishmaiks.org
Author: Prof. Kshitij Patukale
Founder - Director
Bhishma School of Indian Knowledge System