From Gurukul to Global Competence: A Comprehensive Analysis of NEP's IKS Integration

Abstract: The integration of Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) into the National Education Policy (NEP) marks a transformative re-envisioning of India’s educational landscape. This paper synthesizes two complementary thematic frameworks to construct a unified academic analysis of how IKS can enrich and structurally reform India’s contemporary education system. Drawing from ancient philosophical texts, indigenous sciences, classical pedagogical traditions, and modern multidisciplinary learning models, the paper argues that embedding IKS within NEP is essential for building a holistic, culturally anchored, ethically grounded, and future-ready educational ethos. The discussion is organized around three. strategic pillars: holistic development and ethical grounding, strengthening national identity and cultural coherence, and promoting multidisciplinary learning with practical skill development. Through comparative illustrations from both Indian and Western educational practices, the paper demonstrates that IKS is not antiquated knowledge but a living intellectual reservoir suited to addressing 21st-century challenges. The paper concludes with a detailed implementation framework and policy recommendations to enable systematic curricular reform, teacher training, digital innovation, and localized adaptation, ensuring India’s educational transformation remains inclusive, sustainable, and globally competitive.