Importance of IKS

Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) refer to the vast repository of knowledge that originated and evolved in the Indian subcontinent over thousands of years. It includes contributions in diverse areas such as science, medicine, mathematics, art, philosophy, and social practices. IKS is derived from India’s cultural, historical, and literary heritage, spanning both prehistoric and contemporary eras. It encompasses both written texts and oral traditions, reflecting the depth and diversity of India’s intellectual achievements.

IKS is analyzed through three components—Indian, Knowledge, and System—to provide clarity on its scope and structure.

1. Indian: The Subcontinental Context

The "Indian" aspect of IKS refers to knowledge generated within the Indian subcontinent, which includes modern-day India, Pakistan, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Afghanistan. This region shares a rich cultural, literary, and social heritage, with significant exchanges of ideas among its people. For example:

• Chanakya, educated at Takṣaśilā, contributed to the governance of the Mauryan Empire in eastern India.

• Pāṇini, from Gandhāra, influenced Sanskrit grammar across the subcontinent.

Only knowledge created and developed indigenously qualifies as IKS, while foreign accounts documenting Indian traditions are considered "about IKS" rather than part of it.

2. Knowledge: Tacit and Explicit Dimensions

IKS comprises two main forms of knowledge:

1. Tacit Knowledge: Informal, experiential knowledge passed down through oral traditions, folklore, and customs.

2. Explicit Knowledge: Codified and systematically transmitted through texts, theories, and frameworks.

Both forms address spiritual, social, and practical aspects of life, making them crucial to understanding India’s holistic approach to knowledge.

3. System: Structured Framework

The "System" in IKS refers to the organized method of classifying and accessing knowledge. Given the vastness of IKS, structured frameworks help in understanding its interconnectedness across various domains. Logical classification and codification ensure that ancient wisdom remains accessible to modern learners and researchers.

Importance of Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS)

1. Identity

IKS provides individuals and societies with a sense of identity, linking them to their cultural roots. It shapes daily practices and social norms, ensuring continuity across generations. Without preserving this knowledge, societies risk losing their cultural essence, leading to confusion and disconnection.

2. Culture

IKS forms the foundation of culture, encompassing customs, traditions, and intellectual achievements. It enables societies to communicate and exchange ideas effectively. Disruption or loss of IKS can lead to cultural discontinuities, hindering societal progress.

3. Received Wisdom

IKS serves as a cumulative repository of human thought and innovation. It provides a foundation for new knowledge creation and prevents societies from repeating past efforts unnecessarily. By preserving ancient knowledge, societies can build on their historical wisdom for future advancements.

4. Economic Value

IKS holds immense economic potential in today’s knowledge-driven world. Nations with strong traditions of knowledge will lead the emerging "knowledge power" paradigm. Properly documenting and protecting traditional knowledge ensures that its economic value benefits the originating communities and prevents exploitation by others.

Example: Patent on Pigeon Pea Extracts

A U.S.-based company patented the use of pigeon pea extracts for treating diabetes, overlooking India’s traditional knowledge of its medicinal properties. This highlights the importance of preserving and documenting ancient knowledge to protect it from being exploited and to maximize its economic and cultural benefits.