Abstract

The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 heralds a paradigm shift in India’s education system, strategically embedding Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) to revitalize Bharatiya wisdom within contemporary classrooms. This descriptive research paper synthesizes policy analysis, literature review, case studies, and forward-looking recommendations, adopting a qualitative lens centered on conceptual frameworks rather than primary empirical data. By drawing from ancient repositories like Vedic mathematics, Ayurveda, yoga philosophy, and the guru-shishya parampara of Gurukul traditions, NEP 2020 counters colonial-era rote learning legacies, promoting a multidisciplinary, value-infused pedagogy that nurtures cultural rootedness alongside global competencies. Objectives encompass: (1) dissecting NEP 2020’s structural provisions—such as the 5+3+3+4 curricular model, mandatory IKS credits in higher education, and dedicated research centers—for seamless incorporation across foundational, preparatory, middle, and secondary stages; (2) investigating practical integration strategies, including experiential methods like jigsaw learning with folk ecology modules and play-based early childhood care infused with regional lore; and (3) pinpointing implementation barriers, notably teacher unfamiliarity, resource scarcity, and standardization gaps, while proffering solutions like digital repositories, community-elder partnerships, and incentivized continuous professional development. Real-world exemplars, such as Tripura’s community-driven Ayurveda projects and Kerala’s herbal science curricula, underscore enhanced student engagement, sustainability ethos, and dropout mitigation. Ultimately, this paper posits IKS as a catalyst for holistic development—bolstering critical thinking, ethical reasoning, environmental stewardship, and national pride—positioning India as a Vishwaguru in the global knowledge arena.