Indian Knowledge Systems and Sustainable Human Development: A Value-Based Approach

Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) originate from a rich tradition in which ethical conduct, environmental stewardship, social responsibility, and spiritual well-being are deeply interconnected. In contemporary times, as global attention increasingly turns toward sustainable development, there is renewed interest in these indigenous frameworks for insights into constructing a more equitable and value-oriented society. This paper critically examines the potential of IKS to inform and shape sustainable human development, particularly through the value-based educational paradigm advocated by the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. It explores the philosophical, cultural, and pedagogical foundations of IKS, highlighting their contributions to moral education, environmental consciousness, life skills, and social cohesion. Employing qualitative and theoretical methodologies, this study elucidates the transformative impact of integrating IKS into modern educational practices, demonstrating how such integration facilitates holistic development and advances the attainment of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The findings indicate that education grounded in IKS fosters ethical leadership, environmental preservation, and inclusive growth. Ultimately, aligning IKS with the vision of NEP 2020 offers a substantive pathway toward achieving sustainable human development in India.