INTEGRATING TRADITIONAL INDIAN KNOWLEDGE SYSTEM IN INDIAN HIGHER EDUCATION) (IN NEP 2020 PERSPECTIVES

Abstract

: The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 of India proposes a transformative vision for higher education by integrating traditional Indian knowledge systems (IKS) with modern education. This integration aims to foster a holistic, inclusive, and multidisciplinary educational framework that respects and revitalizes India's rich cultural heritage. Traditional Indian knowledge systems, encompassing diverse domains such as Ayurveda, Yoga, ancient mathematics, literature, philosophy, and environmental science, offer invaluable insights and methodologies. The NEP 2020 advocates for the inclusion of these traditional systems to enhance critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and sustainability among students. Incorporating IKS in higher education can bridge the gap between contemporary scientific approaches and time-tested indigenous wisdom, promoting innovation and a deeper understanding of the socio-cultural context. This integration can also provide students with a sense of identity and continuity, fostering respect for diversity and pluralism. The implementation of NEP 2020's vision for integrating traditional Indian knowledge systems faces challenges, including resource constraints, resistance to change, and the need for a standardized framework for validation and certification of traditional knowledge. This paper highlights the significance, strategies, and challenges of integrating traditional Indian knowledge systems in higher education as envisioned by NEP 2020, underscoring its potential to create a more balanced and enriched educational landscape.