57.Indian Knowledge System (IKS) in Shaping Inclusive Trade: Ethical, Cultural, and Economic Pathways

This paper investigates how Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS)—including classical texts, indigenous economic practices, craft traditions, and community governance frameworks—offer meaningful principles for designing inclusive trade models. It presents a conceptual bridge connecting traditional knowledge rooted in equity, reciprocity, and local sustainability with contemporary goals of equitable market access, economic justice, and cultural resilience. Through literature review, policy analysis, and case studies, the paper demonstrates how integrating IKS can inform ethical trade policies, support marginalized producers, and strengthen cultural value chains. The study aligns IKS with major Sustainable Development Goals, including SDG 8 (Decent Work), SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities), and SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption).