TRADITION OF IKS | NEP

The tradition of Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) is deeply rooted in India’s ancient education system. This system aimed at holistic development, emphasizing not only intellectual learning but also moral and spiritual growth.

Education in ancient India was based on strong teacher-student relationships and often involved living closely with the teacher to gain both theoretical and practical knowledge.

Over time, different forms of educational institutions developed, ranging from home-based learning to large universities that attracted scholars from across the world.

Ancient Indian Education System

1. Home-based Learning (Initial Education)
• Early Education at Home: In ancient India, education often began at home. Parents, especially the father, played a key role in teaching children basic knowledge, ethics, traditions, and skills like reading, writing, and arithmetic. This early education laid the foundation for further learning and character-building.
2. Gurukul System
• Learning in Gurukuls: The Gurukul was one of the earliest formal educational systems in India. It involved students (called shishyas) living with their teacher (called guru) in an ashram or hermitage. The relationship between the guru and shishya was central to the learning process, with education being personalized and oral.
• Subjects Taught: In a gurukul, students learned a wide range of subjects, including the Vedas, Upanishads, grammar, logic, mathematics, astronomy, medicine, and the arts. Physical education, discipline, and values like humility and respect for nature were also emphasized.
• Holistic Learning: The gurukul system stressed the importance of practical knowledge, spiritual development, and ethical behavior, ensuring a well-rounded education.
3. Pathashala (Village Schools)
• Community-based Education: As societies evolved, small village schools known as Pathashalas emerged. These schools were often more accessible to the general population and provided basic education to children in subjects such as reading, writing, arithmetic, and Sanskrit.
• Flexibility and Informality: Pathashalas were less formal than gurukuls and operated within the community, with students attending classes and helping in household or agricultural work alongside their education.
4. Universities and Ancient Educational Centres India was home to several renowned ancient universities and educational centers that attracted scholars from all over the world. These universities provided higher education and advanced research in a variety of fields.
• Takshashila (Taxila) (c. 5th century BCE):
• One of the earliest and most famous educational centers, Takshashila offered a wide range of subjects like medicine, law, grammar, philosophy, politics, and military science.
• Students from different countries traveled to Takshashila to study, and many great teachers like Chanakya taught there.
• Nalanda University (c. 5th century CE – 12th century CE):
• Nalanda was one of the largest and most advanced universities in ancient India, offering subjects such as Buddhist studies, medicine, mathematics, astronomy, and philosophy.
• It had thousands of students and teachers from India, Tibet, China, Korea, and other parts of Asia. It was known for its structured curriculum, libraries, and research facilities.
• Vikramashila University (c. 8th century CE – 12th century CE):
• Founded by the Pala dynasty, Vikramashila was another major center for Buddhist studies, but it also offered education in other fields like logic, grammar, and art.
• Other Centers: In addition to these, educational centers like Valabhi, Mithila, and Odantapuri were famous for their contributions to various disciplines such as governance, law, and literature.

Key Features of the Ancient Indian Education System

1. Holistic Learning: Education focused on intellectual, physical, moral, and spiritual growth, making individuals well-rounded and responsible citizens.
2. Oral Tradition and Memory: Much of the teaching was oral, relying heavily on memorization and recitation, especially for texts like the Vedas and Upanishads.
3. Emphasis on Values: The system taught ethics, respect for elders, and the environment, along with academic knowledge, ensuring students developed character along with skills.
4. Inclusivity and Diversity of Knowledge: Subjects covered everything from religious and philosophical teachings to sciences, arts, and politics, reflecting a broad view of learning.
5. Teacher-Student Relationship: The bond between the guru and the shishya was one of respect, devotion, and trust. Education was often customized to the student’s abilities and interests.

The ancient Indian education system was a comprehensive, value-based system that nurtured not only intellectual growth but also the physical, moral, and spiritual development of individuals. It evolved from home-based learning to organized institutions like gurukuls, patshalas, and renowned universities such as Nalanda and Takshashila. This system produced scholars and leaders whose contributions have had a lasting impact on India and the world. The tradition of IKS is not just a part of history but continues to influence modern educational practices, emphasizing the importance of holistic and ethical learning.