India has always been a land of ideas. From the philosophical depth of the Upanishads to the strategic brilliance of Chanakya’s Arthashastra, Indian thinkers have shaped governance, science, mathematics, and ethics for centuries. Yet, somewhere along the way, we stopped looking inward and started seeking validation from the West.
The zero, the decimal system, Ayurveda, yoga, astronomy, political strategy—these are not just relics of the past but contributions that continue to shape global knowledge. And yet, how often do we see them integrated into our modern education or governance systems? Why do Indian students know more about Greek philosophy than about Nyaya or Vedanta?
One major reason is colonial influence. The British education system sidelined Indian knowledge, branding it as outdated. Even after independence, we continued on the same path, placing Western frameworks at the center of governance, economics, and policy.
But times are changing. There’s a growing realization that Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) are not just cultural artifacts but practical tools. The principles of Ayurveda are being validated by modern science, yoga has become a global phenomenon, and scholars are revisiting Chanakya’s economic and political strategies for contemporary relevance. Even in governance, decentralization and community-driven decision-making—ideas deeply rooted in Indian tradition—are making a comeback.
The goal is not to reject modernity but to blend ancient wisdom with contemporary systems. By integrating IKS into policymaking, education, and daily life, India can create a governance model that is not just effective but also deeply rooted in its own intellectual traditions.
