UNIT 4: Relevance and Modern Applications of IKS

Indian Ethics and Morality in Society:

Indian ethics and morality are based on the concept of dharma, which is the
idea that all people are obligated to uphold the natural order. Dharma is
derived from the root word dhr, which means "to hold together". The idea is
that dharma holds society together and ensures its stability and growth.
Here are some examples of Indian ethics and morality:
Hindu scriptures
These scriptures list values and attitudes that are necessary for a human
being to follow dharma, including truthfulness, compassion, and
harmlessness.
The Mahābhārata
This epic emphasizes values like non-violence, truthfulness, charity, and
forgiveness.
The Bhagwat Geeta
This scripture outlines the concept of Sanatana Dharma, or Eternal Law,
which binds all beings.
Jainism
The teachings of Mahavira Swami extol the virtues of a perfectly ethical life
through renunciation of violence.
The teachings of Gautam Buddha
These teachings revolve around the Eight-fold Path, which includes right
view, right speech, and right conduct.
The dharma-śāstras
These texts emphasize social ethics and provide an ethical framework for
interpersonal and social relations.

 Ethical Values From Ancient Texts

The Ramayana
The Ramayana is an epic that teaches ethical values such as integrity,
accountability, and respect. The stories and characters of the Ramayana can be
a source of inspiration for people today.
Some ethical values from the Ramayana
Dharma
Lord Rama's commitment to dharma, or righteousness, is a central part of his
character.
Integrity
The lives of Rama, Sita, and Hanumanji demonstrate the importance of
maintaining integrity in difficult situations.
Accountability
Rama took responsibility for his actions and demonstrated courage.
Respect
Rama respected his parents' decisions, even when he had to spend 14 years
in exile.
Perseverance
Rama remained committed to dharma and upheld his moral values
throughout his journey.
Resilience
Rama faced many challenges and setbacks, but he showed resilience and
adaptability.
Ethical decision-making
The Ramayana teaches the importance of making ethical decisions.
Balancing tradition and innovation
The Ramayana teaches the importance of balancing tradition with
adaptability.

The Mahabharata
The Mahabharata is a Hindu epic that teaches many ethical values, including:
Dharma: The importance of upholding principles of righteousness and moral
integrity
Duty: The importance of performing one's duties without fail
Fighting for rights: The importance of knowing one's rights and privileges and
fighting for them
Supporting good: The importance of supporting good causes
Focus: The importance of keeping one's focus unaltered to attain success
Humility: The importance of remaining gentle and humble in all situations
Avoiding bad company: The importance of avoiding bad company
Thinking before speaking: The importance of keeping a watch over one's
words
Avoiding revenge: The importance of avoiding revenge
Learning completely: The importance of learning anything completely
Open dialogue: The importance of open dialogue and seeking guidance when
facing moral dilemmas
Ethical conduct: The importance of ethical conduct, guided by selflessness and
empathy
The Mahabharata also teaches that the world is positive and essential and that
one should respect the world, society, and all relationships between people.

The Bhagavad Gita

The Bhagavad Gita offers a framework for ethical and moral living, including
concepts such as duty, action, and selfless action. Some of the ethical values
from the Bhagavad Gita include:
Duty and responsibility
The Bhagavad Gita teaches the importance of recognizing and fulfilling one's
responsibilities with sincerity and dedication.
Ethical conduct
The Bhagavad Gita emphasizes the importance of ethical conduct in all
aspects of life, including values such as honesty, integrity, compassion, and
respect for others.
Holistic development
The Bhagavad Gita recognizes the multidimensional nature of human beings
and advocates for their holistic development.
Self-management
The Bhagavad Gita provides guidance to resolve conflicts, poor productivity,
and unmotivation.
Self-submission
The Bhagavad Gita preaches the doctrine of complete self-submission and
devotion to God.
Synthesis of individual and social interests
The Bhagavad Gita synthesizes both social and individual interests.

The Upanishads

The Upanishads promote a variety of ethical values, including:

Non-violence (ahimsa): Considered an integral part of purifying the self and
gaining higher knowledge
Truthfulness (satya): Strongly emphasized in the Upanishads, especially in the
Prasna and Mundaka Upanishads
Self-control (dama): An important value for leaders, along with self-discipline
Compassion: A virtue that contributes to spiritual progression
Patience: A virtuous duty that is an act of worship to the God within
Memory: A virtuous duty that is an act of worship to the God within
Sense of unity: A quality that contributes to a healthy human society
Negation of malpractices: A quality that contributes to a healthy human
society
Longing for goodness in life: A virtue that contributes to spiritual progression
Negation of escapism: A virtue that contributes to spiritual progression
Penance: A virtue that contributes to spiritual progression
Chastity: A virtue that contributes to spiritual progression

The Upanishads also emphasize the importance of meditation on OM and

exploring our inner divine Self.

 Influence On Modern Indian Society

Modern Indian society has been influenced by many factors,
including industrialization, urbanization, education, and Westernization. These
factors have led to changes in the caste system, the political system, and the
way people think and act.
Industrialization and urbanization
Breaking down caste barriers
Industrialization and urbanization led to people from different castes living
together.
Spatial mobility
Industrialization and urbanization broke the geographical isolation of the
caste system.
Education
Increased awareness: Modernization has led to greater access to education,
which has increased awareness and empowerment.
Challenging caste norms: Exposure to modern education has led to
questioning of caste norms.
Westernization
Changes in dress and food habits: Westernization has led to changes in dress
and food habits.
Westernization of youth: Globalization has led to the Westernization of
youth.
Political system
Political representation: The introduction of a democratic system of
governance gave the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes significant
political representation.
Social reform
Altered traditions: Social reform has altered traditions like sati and child
marriage.
Liberation of women: Social reformers helped in the liberation of women.
  Influence On Modern Indian Law And Governance
Modern Indian law and governance have been influenced by a variety of
factors, including ancient Hindu texts, British colonial rule, and the Indian
Constitution.
Ancient Hindu texts
Manusmriti: An ancient Hindu legal text that provided guidelines on justice,
social conduct, and morality
Dharmashastra: An ancient Hindu legal text that provided guidelines on
justice, social conduct, and morality
Āćāra: Customs that contributed to classical Hindu law
Digests: Commentaries that translated and interpreted classical Hindu law
British colonial rule
English common law: The British introduced a uniform legal system based on
English common law
Codification of laws: The British codified laws in India, including the Indian
Penal Code (IPC) in 1860 Indian Constitution
Separation of powers: The Indian Constitution established a federal system of
government with a separation of powers between the judiciary, executive, and
legislature
Principles of justice, equality, and social welfare: The Indian Constitution
enshrines these principles

Environmental Awareness in Ancient India

Ancient Indians had a strong sense of environmental consciousness and valued

nature, rivers, forests, and animals. They believed in the importance of
protecting the environment and maintaining balance between ecological
entities.
Evidence of environmental consciousness in ancient India
Indus Valley Civilization
The people of the Indus Valley Civilization had a strong sense of hygiene and
sanitation. They built ventilated houses, orderly streets, wells, bathrooms,
and covered underground drains.
Vedic literature
The Vedas, Brahmanas, and Upanishads are full of references to flora and
fauna. The Vedas also emphasize the importance of protecting the
environment and keeping it pure.
Kautilya's Arthashastra
Kautilya prescribed fines for cutting down trees, and suggested the creation
of forest sanctuaries.
Ashoka Maurya
Ashoka Maurya banned the burning of farm chaff after harvest to focus on
keeping the environment clean.

Principles of environmental consciousness in ancient India

Respect for nature
Ancient Indians worshipped nature and the objects of nature, such as trees,
rivers, and mountains.
Balance between ecological entities
Ancient Indians believed in maintaining balance between ecological entities,
such as the atmosphere, earth, water, crops, and vegetation.
Respect for animals
Ancient Indians believed in the right of animals to coexist with humans, and
nurtured and worshipped them.

 Traditional Practices Promoting Sustainability And Biodiversity

Traditional knowledge and practices can help promote sustainability and
biodiversity. These practices include:
Education
Promoting local and indigenous knowledge of biodiversity can help ensure
the sustainable use of biodiversity.
Conservation
Conserving existing protected areas, such as national parks and nature
reserves, and creating new ones.
Sustainable forestry
Preserving the local ecosystem by making minimal changes to the soil and
water sources.
Responsible consumption
Supporting ethically sourced and sustainable products, reducing waste, and
choosing environmentally friendly practices.

Explanation
Biodiversity is important for the functioning of ecosystems and the services
they provide to humans. It's also directly linked to the economic, social, and
environmental aspects of sustainability.
Human interference in the environment can impact biodiversity. To prevent
environmental problems that lead to biodiversity loss, it's important to
implement conservation measures.
  Sacred Groves, Conservation Efforts, And Environmental Ethics
Sacred groves are areas of natural vegetation that are protected by local
communities for their cultural and spiritual significance. They are important for
conservation efforts because they provide habitats for many plant and animal
species, and they help maintain clean water, soil, and air.
Conservation efforts
Community-based conservation
Sacred groves are protected by local communities, such as Hindu families or
temple trusts.
Sustainable outcomes
The IUCN Green List Standard requires that protected areas preserve key
cultural values and achieve sustainable outcomes.
Research and policy
Sacred groves are the focus of research and policy on forest conservation and
management.
Environmental ethics
Preserving cultural values
Sacred groves are important for cultural heritage and should be preserved as
part of local identity.
Respecting living creatures
In many sacred groves, hunting and logging are prohibited because it's
considered harmful to living creatures.
Maintaining social fabric
Sacred groves are important for social fabric, and they are often the site of
community gatherings and festivals.
Benefits of sacred groves
Biodiversity: Sacred groves are biodiversity hotspots that contain many plant
and animal species, including rare and endangered species
Water quality: Sacred groves can help maintain clean water, which can meet
drinking water standards
Soil erosion: The vegetation in sacred groves can help reduce soil erosion and
prevent desertification
Ayurvedic medicines: Sacred groves were traditionally used as a source of
Ayurvedic medicines
Fruits and honey: Sacred groves were traditionally used as a source of fruits
and honey

Indian Knowledge System and Globalization

The Indian Knowledge System (IKS) is a system of ancient and contemporary
knowledge that has been passed down through generations. Globalization has
impacted the IKS in a number of ways, including making education more
accessible and encouraging international cooperation. However, it has also
posed challenges to the preservation of cultural authenticity.
How globalization has impacted the IKS
Education
Globalization has made education more accessible and market-focused. It has
also encouraged the inclusion of traditional and modern ideas in the
curriculum.
International cooperation
Globalization has encouraged international cooperation and the exchange of
ideas.
Technological innovation
Globalization has led to technological innovation and the development of
new ways to access and share knowledge.
Global competence
The IKS promotes global competence by exposing students to international
perspectives. This helps students develop adaptability and collaboration
skills.
Challenges to the IKS
Cultural authenticity: Globalization has posed challenges to the preservation
of cultural authenticity.
Inequalities: Globalization has not eliminated inequalities, and the
consequences of colonialism continue to impact the educational system.
Adjusting to change: Globalization has made it difficult to adjust to rapid
changes.
The IKS and the future
The IKS can be a guiding force for a more balanced and conscious way of
living. It can also help India to create a better future by promoting research
and dissemination of traditional medicines and knowledge systems.

 Indian Knowledge System And Globalization

The Indian Knowledge System (IKS) is a system of ancient and contemporary
knowledge that has been passed down through generations. Globalization has
impacted the IKS in a number of ways, including making education more
accessible and encouraging international cooperation. However, it has also
posed challenges to the preservation of cultural authenticity.
How globalization has impacted the IKS
Education
Globalization has made education more accessible and market-focused. It has
also encouraged the inclusion of traditional and modern ideas in the
curriculum.
International cooperation
Globalization has encouraged international cooperation and the exchange of
ideas.
Technological innovation
Globalization has led to technological innovation and the development of
new ways to access and share knowledge.
Global competence
The IKS promotes global competence by exposing students to international
perspectives. This helps students develop adaptability and collaboration
skills.
Challenges to the IKS
Cultural authenticity: Globalization has posed challenges to the preservation
of cultural authenticity.
Inequalities: Globalization has not eliminated inequalities, and the
consequences of colonialism continue to impact the educational system.
Adjusting to change: Globalization has made it difficult to adjust to rapid
changes.
The IKS and the future
The IKS can be a guiding force for a more balanced and conscious way of
living. It can also help India to create a better future by promoting research
and dissemination of traditional medicines and knowledge systems.

 Contributions Of IKS To Global Science

Indian knowledge systems (IKS) can contribute to global science in many ways,
including:
Biodiversity conservation: IKS can help conserve biodiversity and manage
resources. For example, IKS can help restore tropical ecosystems and manage
water sustainably.
Climate change adaptation: IKS can help adapt to climate change. For
example, the Paris Agreement on climate change acknowledges the role of IKS
in adaptation action.
Ecosystem restoration: IKS can help restore ecosystems, including sustainable
water management and maintenance.
Health outcomes: IKS can improve health outcomes through holistic
approaches. For example, yoga can improve flexibility, joint health, and
respiratory function.
Social justice: IKS can promote social justice and empowerment for
marginalized communities.
Cultural exchange: IKS can foster cultural exchange and dialogue.
Educational curricula: IKS can enrich educational curricula and awareness
programs.
Innovation and adaptation: IKS can contribute to innovation and adaptation in
various fields.
Values: IKS can help develop a positive attitude towards ecological
sustainability and the preservation of the earth's diversity.

 Contributions Of IKS To Medicine

Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) have contributed to medicine in many ways,
including the development of Ayurvedic medicine, the use of turmeric, and the
use of acupuncture. IKS can also be used to help prevent and manage
pandemics.
Contributions of IKS to medicine
Ayurveda
Ayurveda is a medical system that emphasizes preventive measures to
maintain health and prevent disease. It recognizes the connection between
the mind and body, and uses lifestyle, diet, and herbal interventions to
address imbalances.
Turmeric
Turmeric has been used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine and other health
and medicinal applications.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a medical system that is an example of IKS.
Atharvaveda
The Atharvaveda is an ancient Indian medical text that discusses longevity,
disease treatment, and healthy lifestyle.
Vrikshaturveda
Vrikshaturveda is an ancient IKS that focuses on organic and natural
agricultural practices.
Indigenous knowledge of COVID-19
Indian knowledge can be used to help prevent and mitigate the spread of
COVID-19 and other infectious diseases.
The Indian Knowledge System (IKS) has contributed to literature by providing a
rich source of themes and ideas, and by influencing the development of
characters. IKS is a holistic approach to knowledge that includes philosophy,
science, art, and more.
Contributions to literature
Themes: IKS has influenced the themes of Odia literature, including social
justice, independence, and globalization.
Character development: IKS has influenced the development of characters in
Odia literature.
Regional identity: IKS has helped to cultivate a distinct regional identity in Odia
literature.
Indigenous epistemologies: IKS has helped to foster indigenous epistemologies
in Odia literature.
Local wisdom: IKS has helped to integrate local wisdom with broader Indian
traditions in Odia literature.
Other contributions of IKS
IKS has influenced education, arts, administration, law, justice, health,
manufacturing, and commerce.
IKS has influenced contemporary thought and innovation.

 Revival And Preservation Of IKS In Contemporary Society

The Indian Knowledge System (IKS) is being preserved and revived in
contemporary society through research, education, and the promotion of its
practices.
Research
Research is being conducted on IKS texts, such as the Bhagavad Gita, to
understand its relevance to modern challenges
Research is also being conducted to develop protocols for making IKS globally
accepted as a science and medicine
Education
IKS is being integrated into educational curricula at all levels
The University Grants Commission (UGC) has launched an online IKS MOOC
course
The UGC has also advised that 5% of a student's total credits should be in IKS
courses
Promotion
IKS is being promoted through the National Manuscripts Mission, which works
to preserve and make ancient texts accessible
IKS is being promoted through the Project FIT, which aims to make IKS content
available in 22 scheduled Indian languages
IKS is being promoted through the Bhishma School of Indian Knowledge
System (BSIKS), which offers courses and resources to promote IKS.

Comparative Philosophy and Thought

Comparative philosophy is the study of different philosophical traditions and
how they compare to each other. It involves crossing over the boundaries
between traditions that may be separated by cultural or historical distance.
Explanation
Philosophy is the study of fundamental questions about existence, knowledge,
reason, value, and more. It's a critical and rational inquiry that involves
reflecting on its own methods and assumptions.
Comparative philosophy allows for the comparison of ideas from different
philosophical traditions. For example, a paper comparing two philosophers
might look at how they respond to a particular issue. The paper could then try
to understand why their views differ or are similar.
Some major areas of philosophy include:
Ontology and metaphysics: The theory of reality
Epistemology: The theory of knowledge
Axiology: The theory of value

 Dialogue between Indian and Western philosophies

The dialogue between Indian and Western philosophies is a cross-cultural
exchange that explores the differences and similarities between the two
traditions. It can help us understand human values and ethics more
thoroughly.
What is the dialogue between Indian and Western philosophies about?
Fundamental questions: The dialogue explores questions about existence,
knowledge, and ethics.
Self-identity: Indian philosophers have debated the need to preserve Indian
philosophy's self-identity while also engaging with Western philosophy.
Values: The dialogue compares the values of each tradition, such as liberty,
justice, and autonomy in Western philosophy, and moksha, ahimsa, and
dharma in Indian philosophy.
How does the dialogue take place?
Comparative analysis: The dialogue can involve comparing the two traditions
to understand their differences and similarities.
Open philosophizing: The dialogue can promote openness to diverse ways of
thought.
Synthesis: The dialogue can help synthesize elements from both traditions to
advance world peace.
What are some challenges?
Translation
Translation can be challenging, and care needs to be taken to avoid
misrepresenting or oversimplifying the traditions.
Cultural context
Cultural context can be challenging, and care needs to be taken to avoid
misrepresenting or oversimplifying the traditions.

 Cross-cultural impacts on knowledge, science, and

ethical frameworks
Cross-Cultural Impacts On Knowledge
Cross-cultural impacts on knowledge can include how people from different
cultures share knowledge, how they value knowledge, and how cultural
differences can affect the effectiveness of knowledge management.
How people share knowledge
Cultural differences
Different cultures may have different values, beliefs, and behaviors, which
can impact how people share knowledge.
Communication
Cultural differences can make it difficult for people to communicate and
exchange information.
Metaphors
Different people may use different metaphors to conceptualize knowledge.
Cultural norms
Cultural norms, such as guanxi, face, and jeitinho, can impact how people
share knowledge.
How people value knowledge
Cultural values: Different cultures may have different values for knowledge.
Local traditions: Local traditions, such as language and culture, can impact how
people value knowledge.
How cultural differences impact knowledge management
Knowledge transfer: Cultural differences can make it difficult to transfer
knowledge across different cultures.
Teamwork: Cultural diversity can lead to interpersonal conflict and
communication difficulties, which can damage team performance.
Decision making: Cultural differences can create tensions in decision making.
Science Impacts On Knowledge
Science impacts knowledge by providing a way to develop reliable information
through evidence-based analysis. It also helps people make informed decisions
and solve problems.
How science impacts knowledge
Develops new technologies: Scientific knowledge helps develop new
technologies and products.
Solves problems: Scientific knowledge helps people solve practical problems.
Fosters critical thinking: Science education encourages curiosity, which helps
students develop critical thinking skills.
Develops evidence-based conclusions: Science education helps students learn
to analyze data, make observations, and draw conclusions based on evidence.
Develops new applications: New scientific knowledge can lead to new
applications.
Helps people make informed decisions: Scientific knowledge helps people
make informed decisions, both individually and collectively.
How science impacts society
Citizen science
Citizen science can have a transformative impact on science, citizen
empowerment, and socio-political processes.
Communication and connectivity
The proliferation of technology and knowledge has redefined the way people
communicate and interact.

Ethical Frameworks On Knowledge

Ethical frameworks are structured methods for evaluating what is right or
wrong in a given situation. They are used to assess and resolve ethical
dilemmas by applying moral principles. Ethical frameworks are important in
many fields, including healthcare, law, and corporate governance.
Ethical considerations in knowledge management
Data protection
Protecting sensitive data is a key ethical consideration in knowledge
management systems.
Transparency
Ensuring transparency in decision-making processes is an ethical
consideration in knowledge management systems.
Fairness and accountability
Upholding principles of fairness and accountability is an ethical consideration
in knowledge management systems.
Ethical knowledge
Ethical knowledge can include sets of rules, laws, statements of duties, rights,
or obligations, and theory.
Examples of ethical knowledge include the Hippocratic Oath and the
Nightingale Pledge.
Ethical frameworks for decision making
Identify ethical issues: Identify the ethical issues involved in a situation.
Get the facts: Gather all relevant facts.
Evaluate alternative actions: Consider all possible actions and their
consequences.
Choose an action: Select the best option and test it.
Implement the decision: Put the decision into action and reflect on the
outcome.

Science and Technology in Ancient India

Ancient India had notable advancements in science and technology in fields
such as astronomy, mathematics, medicine, and metallurgy.
Astronomy
Early Indian astronomy was used to plan large sacrifices.
The Jyotishavedanga records these sacrifices.
The work of ancient Indian astronomers is evident in astronomical texts.
Chemistry
Ancient Indians learned smelting metal from the Mesopotamians.
Smelting metal is the process of using heat and chemicals to extract a metal
from an ore.
Metallurgy
The history of metallurgy in India began before the 3rd millennium BCE.
The Rigveda uses the Sanskrit word ayas which means "metal" or "copper".
Mathematics
Aryabhatta was a well-known mathematician and astronomer from the town
of Kusumapura (now Patna) in Bihar.
Medicine
Ancient Indians made notable advancements in medicine.
Other Contributions
Indian Shastric knowledge played a fundamental role in modern science.
Ancient Indians developed technologies such as agriculture, animal husbandry,
pottery, textile manufacture, bead-making, wood-carving, cart-making, and
sailing.
  Innovations In Agriculture, Water Management, And Urban Planning
Agriculture:-
Innovations in agriculture in India include precision farming, organic farming,
and the use of new technologies. These innovations help farmers increase
productivity, reduce resource usage, and improve the sustainability of
agriculture.
Precision Farming
Uses GPS and AI-enabled software to map fields and provide the right inputs
for crops
Uses data-driven practices to optimize crop yields and minimize resource
usage
Organic Farming
A return to sustainable practices that use chemical-free produce
New technologies
Drones: Used to monitor crops, soil quality, and environmental factors
Sensors: Used to monitor soil quality and determine when to water or fertilize
fields
Internet of Things (IoT): Used to collect data from sensors, such as cameras,
drones, and soil sensors
Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML): Used to make smarter
decisions
Cloud computing: Used to store and analyze sensor data

Water Managemnt:-
India has used a variety of innovations to manage water, including traditional
techniques and modern technologies.
Traditional techniques
Artificial glaciers
During the winter, excess water is guided to shaded areas of mountains,
where it freezes. The resulting glaciers melt in the spring, providing water for
crops.
Kuhls
Surface water channels in mountainous regions, built from melted glacier
water.
Modern technologies
Smart water meters: Monitor water quality and quantity in real time
Remote sensing: Monitor water quality from a distance
Automated irrigation systems: Optimize water use in agriculture
Geographic information systems (GIS): Help with water resource planning and
management
Satellite imagery: Help with water resource planning and management
Internet of Things (IoT) sensors: Monitor water quality, quantity, and
distribution
Machine learning: Analyze data to optimize water treatment processes
Water purification and desalination methods: Make clean water more
accessible and energy-efficient
Other innovations
Rainwater harvesting: Augments groundwater recharge and reduces
dependency on surface water sources
Micro-irrigation techniques: Optimize water use efficiency and improve crop
yields
Water recycling: Promotes responsible water use
Water-efficient technologies: Promotes responsible water use

Urban Planning:-
Innovations in urban planning in India include the use of technology to create
sustainable urban infrastructure and more efficient urban environments. Some
examples of these innovations include:
Online Building Permission System (OBPS)
An online system that automates the scrutiny of building plans and
computerizes building by-laws
GIS and city mapping
The use of geographic information systems (GIS) to map cities and urban
landscapes
Land use and landcover (LULC) mapping
The use of GIS to map land use and land cover for urban development
Artificial intelligence (AI)
The use of AI to analyze data from sources like traffic patterns, energy usage,
and mobile networks to improve infrastructure and energy efficiency
Augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (XR)
The use of AR and XR to create interactive urban design experiences that
allow users to visualize the impact of proposed designs
Other innovations in urban planning include:
Sustainable urban infrastructure
Sustainable urban planning
Connected streetlights
Smart metering
Urban agriculture
Connected public transport
Smart parking solutions
  Role Of Ancient Technologies In Modern Science And Engineering
Ancient technologies have laid the foundation for modern science and
engineering, and continue to provide insights into human progress.
Examples Of Ancient Technologies
Roman aqueducts: These systems supplied water to cities and demonstrated
the ingenuity of ancient societies.
Chinese compass: This navigational tool was a notable innovation of ancient
societies.
Egyptian pyramids: These pyramids are a testament to the technical prowess
of ancient societies.
Baghdad Battery: This 2,000-year-old artifact is believed to be an example of
an electrical power source.
Water mills: These mechanical devices used water power to grind grain into
flour.
Antikythera Mechanism: This early analog computer was used for
astronomical calculations.
Roman concrete: This concrete was long-lasting and remained relatively intact
even after centuries of exposure to seawater.
Contributions Of Ancient Technologies
Medicine: Ancient Indian systems like Ayurveda and Siddha emphasized a
holistic approach to health.
Engineering: Ancient technologies laid the foundation for modern
engineering.
Architecture: Ancient technologies laid the foundation for modern
architecture.
Scientific understanding: Ancient Greeks were pioneers in developing
mechanical devices and improving scientific understanding.

Legacy and Preservation of Indian Knowledge

The legacy of Indian knowledge is preserved through a variety of initiatives,
including education, research, and conservation efforts.
Education
The Indian National Education Policy (NEP) of 2020 emphasizes the inclusion of
Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) in school curriculums.
The National Credit Framework (NCF) allows students to earn credits for
courses on ancient Indian sciences and arts.
Project FIT aims to make IKS content available in 22 scheduled Indian
languages.
Research
The government is working to research and disseminate IKS and traditional
medicines to make them globally accepted.
The government is also working to develop protocols for IKS and traditional
medicines.
Conservation
The government has taken initiatives to preserve traditional knowledge, such
as the Traditional Knowledge Digital Library (TKDL).
The government has also approved the Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual
Augmentation Drive (PRASAD) scheme to redevelop neglected pilgrimage
sites.
The government has also established institutions to protect and promote
Indian knowledge.
Community Involvement
Local communities can participate in initiatives to preserve traditional
knowledge, such as traditional crafts, local agriculture, and herbal medicine.

 Importance Of Documenting, Preserving, And Revitalizing IKS

Documenting:-
Documenting Indian knowledge systems is important for preserving and
protecting traditional knowledge, promoting research, and supporting the
communities that hold the knowledge.
Preserving and protecting traditional knowledge
Preventing loss
Documenting traditional knowledge can help prevent the loss of knowledge
that is passed down orally.
Protecting intellectual property
Documenting traditional knowledge can help protect the intellectual property
of the knowledge holders.
Supporting benefit sharing
Documenting traditional knowledge can help ensure that those who use the
knowledge benefit from it.
Promoting research
Enabling further research
Documenting traditional knowledge can help promote research that
addresses current challenges.
Giving due recognition
Documenting traditional knowledge can help recognize the traditional
knowledge holders.
Preserving:-
Preserving the Indian Knowledge System (IKS) is important for maintaining
cultural diversity, promoting sustainable practices, and ensuring the well-being
of communities.
Benefits of preserving IKS
Cultural diversity: Preserving IKS helps maintain and promote the cultural
identities of indigenous communities.
Sustainable practices: IKS can provide sustainable solutions to environmental
challenges, such as resource management and conservation.
Health benefits: IKS includes traditional medicines that can provide health
benefits to large populations.
Ecological benefits: IKS can help conserve forests and biodiversity.
Social and physical well-being: IKS can help promote well-being and protect
livelihoods.
How to preserve IKS
Documentation: Collect, classify, and make records of intellectual activities
accessible.
Community empowerment: Empower communities to protect their
knowledge and use it for development.
Education: Incorporate IKS into education to help students understand their
cultural ethos and broaden their intellectual horizons.
Legal protection: Protect IKS through legal means.
Digital innovation: Use digital innovation to preserve IKS.
Ethical frameworks: Use ethical frameworks to prevent the exploitation and
abuse of intellectual property rights.

Revitalizing:-
Revitalizing the Indian Knowledge System (IKS) is important because it helps
preserve and promote ancient knowledge systems for future generations. It
also helps students develop a deeper understanding of their country's cultural
heritage.
Benefits of revitalizing the IKS
Preserves ancient knowledge
Revitalizing the IKS helps preserve ancient knowledge systems like Ayurveda,
Yoga, and traditional arts.
Promotes cultural identity
Revitalizing the IKS helps students develop a deeper appreciation for their
country's unique history and cultural identity.
Enhances intellectual horizons
Revitalizing the IKS helps students broaden their intellectual horizons and
boost their self-assurance.
Promotes sustainable health
Traditional ecological knowledge promotes a harmonious relationship
between humans and nature, which is crucial for long-term health and well-
being.
Promotes mental freedom
Revitalizing the IKS can usher in a new era of mental freedom and intellectual
empowerment.
How to revitalize the IKS
Integrate the IKS into mainstream education
Promote Indian arts and culture into the main curriculum
Conduct collaborative research on the IKS
Develop Indian Thought Models grounded on available IKS literature

 Government Initiatives, Academic Research, And Role Of Digital

Technology In IKS Preservation
Government Initiatives:-
The Indian government has taken several initiatives to preserve Indian
Knowledge Systems (IKS). These initiatives include:
Incorporating IKS into education
The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 emphasizes including IKS in the
curriculum at all levels of education. The University Grants Commission (UGC)
has mandated that a portion of undergraduate and postgraduate courses
include IKS.
Establishing IKS centers
The Ministry of Education (MoE) has established IKS centers to promote
research, education, and dissemination of IKS.
Funding research
The government has funded research initiatives related to IKS, such as
research on agriculture and architecture.
Digitizing IKS
The government has digitized IKS materials to make them accessible to
students and researchers.
Training teachers
The UGC has trained teachers in IKS and is working on developing teacher-
training guidelines.
Documenting IKS
The government has created tools to help document IKS and prevent third
parties from acquiring unauthorized IP rights.
Promoting IKS through events
The government has organized events to celebrate IKS and its relevance to
contemporary society.

Academic Research:-
Academic research on Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) aims to preserve and
promote IKS through interdisciplinary research and its integration into
education and other fields.
Research areas
Traditional medicines
Research to make traditional medicines globally accepted as science
Iron monuments
Research to understand the metallurgical origins of traditional iron
monuments in central India
Ceramic materials
Research to demonstrate and reproduce ancient Indian ceramic materials
knowledge systems
Alloy processing
Research to adapt ancient Indian alloy processing and metallurgical
technologies for modern applications
Musical instruments
Research to investigate the vibration and sound characteristics of Indian
bowed stringed musical instruments

Role Of Digital Technology:-

Digital technology can help preserve indigenous knowledge systems (IKS)
by documenting, sharing, and teaching this knowledge. Digital technologies
can also help revitalize IKS by making indigenous languages more accessible
and creating interactive learning resources.
How Digital Technology Can Help Preserve IKS:-
Documentation: Digital technologies can help document and archive IKS.
Sharing: Digital technologies can help share IKS with future generations.
Teaching: Digital technologies can help teach IKS through e-learning platforms,
mobile apps, and virtual reality (VR).
Language learning: Digital technologies can help create interactive language
learning applications.
Challenges:-
Long-term preservation
Ensuring the long-term preservation and accessibility of IKS can be
challenging.
Cultural sensitivity
Cultural sensitivity is important when using digital technologies to preserve
IKS.
Technological accessibility
Ensuring that everyone has access to the technology and resources needed to
preserve IKS is important.
Solutions:-
Community engagement: Collaborating with indigenous communities,
policymakers, and researchers can help preserve IKS.
Respect for indigenous rights: Respecting indigenous rights is important when
preserving IKS.
Training and awareness: Training and awareness programs can help
community members learn how to protect IKS.