A Study of Scientific Perspectives in the Indian Knowledge System in Augmenting social resilience

This research paper on the scientific perspectives of the Indian Knowledge System explores the principles and applications of traditional wisdom in the context of contemporary scientific paradigms. The research emphasised the significance of incorporating India's rich and diverse knowledge traditions, including areas like philosophy, mathematics, medicine, agriculture, and environmental sustainability, into global discussions on knowledge systems. This interdisciplinary approach to IKS offers a nuanced and holistic perspective that can significantly augment social resilience by discerning how culture, science, and society are interconnected. This study sought to examine the scientific values of the IKS in shaping a resilient future and how these values can be applied to develop an interdisciplinary model that promotes resilience. By analysing the epistemological structures and values within IKS, it revealed how traditional knowledge from Ayurveda, Arthashastra, Yoga and Bhagavad Gita etc., encompass scientific reasoning. The values of Panchamahabhuta, Pancha Kosha, Purushartha, Lokasamgraha, Ritucharya and Dinacharya have been identified. These are significantly synergized with modern concepts of ecological harmony, health and well-being, social justice and accountability, the democratisation of knowledge, social cohesion and community development. This integration of science with cultural and spiritual dimensions presents a unique model for addressing contemporary global challenges like climate change, health and economic crises. Though the social, environmental and ethical spheres are intertwined, resilience is not about responding to crises solely but also about fostering the proactive and transformative capacity for a sustainable future.   Further, the study conceptualises an interdisciplinary paradigm that underlines the significance of IKS in fostering a sense of social resilience. The concepts of Panchamahabhuta, Pancha Kosha and Purushartha collectively propose Lokasamgraha - a model signifying global well-being, sustainable practices and inclusiveness in promoting social resilience. As conceptualized through the lens of IKS, social resilience extends beyond the capacity to withstand adversity. This includes the ability to face challenges by drawing on our collective cultural, spiritual and intellectual heritage. The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 symbolises the IKS as India's rich ancient heritage, recognizing its value in shaping modern education. By incorporating IKS, the policy seeks to preserve and promote traditional wisdom, ensuring its relevance in contemporary society. Additionally, the NEP highlights resilience as a crucial life skill, acknowledging the importance of adaptability and mental strength in facing challenges. This dual focus on IKS and resilience underlines the policy's commitment to holistic education, fostering individuals for cultural knowledge and equipping them to thrive in an ever-changing world. Moreover, this approach advocates for the importance of knowledge systems that are adaptable, inclusive, and responsive to the needs of both individuals and societies as a whole. It offers a framework for developing a social fabric that is robust because of disruption, wherein the resilience of communities is derived not just from external resources but from internal strength, unity, and collective wisdom. The scientific perspectives in Indian Knowledge System provides a multidimensional, interdisciplinary framework that will be pivotal in enhancing social resilience. By re-envisioning science as an interconnected and holistic practice, we can foster greater sustainability, harmony, and adaptability in addressing contemporary global issues. The integration of contemporary scientific approaches of Indian Knowledge System holds immense potential for creating resilient communities better equipped to face future challenges while preserving the rich legacy of knowledge that has been passing through generations.

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