Indian Knowledge System: Integrating Ancient Indian Education with Modern Education under NEP 2020

Abstract

               India has been the centre of learning since ancient times. As we understand, the ancient education system of India focused on the holistic development of the students, both inner and outer-self, thus preparing them for life. Education was free and not centralised. It’s foundations were laid in the rich cultural traditions of India thereby helping in the development of the physical, intellectual, spiritual, and artistic aspects of life holistically. This article highlights some of the teaching and learning principles of the ancient Indian education system and their relevance in contemporary times along its coherence with the NEP 2020. A comprehensive national policy- NEP 2020 drafted after thirty-four years in the country under the Chairmanship of Krishnaswami Kasturirangan, the former Chief of ISRO has largely focused on the adaptation of the Takshila model for holistic development of the student and to include interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary studies to develop the student as a whole. Therefore, the ancient Indian education was not merely theoretical and related to the realities of life, but also regarded as a model for multidisciplinary approach to present education system. Thus, integrating ancient system of Indian education into the present education system aligned with the NEP 2020 presents an opportunity to enrich modern educational practices with ancient wisdom and values.