Integration of Indian Knowledge System (IKS) at ITM University, Gwalior

Introduction:

ITM University recognizes the immense value of the Indian Knowledge System (IKS) and its potential to enrich various academic disciplines. This policy note outlines a framework for integrating IKS principles and practices into existing and future courses across diverse fields like engineering, management, nursing, agriculture, pharmacy, sports, journalism, and others.

What is the Indian Knowledge System (IKS)?

IKS encompasses a vast body of knowledge accumulated over millennia in India. It includes diverse fields like Ayurveda, Yoga, Vastu Shastra, Jyotish (Vedanga), Sanskrit literature, andtraditional ecological knowledge.

IKS (Indian Knowledge System) basket for all courses of ITM University
  • Memorial Lectures (Badshah Khan, Ram Manohar Lohiya, Anupam Mishr etc)
  • Music Festival (Classical/ Western/regional/Sufi / Folk/ Instrumental)
  • Dance Festival (Classical/ Folk / Fusion)
  • Theatre (Hindi / Regional Languages / International )
  • Meeting of Minds s (Interactive sessions on though provoking topics, the purpose is enhancing critical thinking ability of students )
  • Editor’s Conclave(Interactive session with media persons to understand the role of media and their work culture)
  • Film Festival (showcasing of films from various countries and regions and discussions with the artists / directors, writers etc to understand peculiarities of film making)
  • Interactive sessions with eminent personalities from all over the world and from different domains so as to expose students to different skill sets
  • Expert lecturesorganized by specific departments to provide recent developments to the students of the respective domain.
  • Fine Arts SymposiumWorkshops (Sculptures/ painting) to expose students to different art forms and their variations like sculptures made up of different materials, like paintings from different parts of globe (madhubani/ Gond)
  • Academic Conclave (Pre-convocation academic Conclave)
Benefits of Integrating IKS:
  • Innovation and Problem-solving: IKS offers unique perspectives and solutions tocontemporary challenges.
  • Sustainability: IKS promotes sustainable practices in areas like agriculture, water management, and architecture.
  • Holistic Approach: IKS encourages a holistic view, integrating physical, mental, and spiritual well-being.
  • Cultural Understanding: IKS fosters appreciation for India’s rich heritage and strengthens cultural identity.

Integration Strategies by Discipline:
  • Engineering Sciences:
    • Incorporate Vastu Shastra principles for sustainable building design and resource optimization.
    • Integrate Ayurvedic concepts like biomimicry for material science and product development.
    • Explore applications of Jyotish (astronomy) in space exploration and satellite communication.

    Management:
    • Analyze ancient management practices from Arthashastra for leadership development and strategic decision-making.
    • Integrate Yogic principles for stress management and employee well-being in organizational behavior courses.
    • Explore the application of Ayurveda in corporate wellness programs.

    Nursing Sciences:
    • Introduce Ayurvedic concepts of preventive healthcare and herbal remedies in complementary and alternative medicine courses.
    • Integrate Yogic practices like pranayama and meditation for stress management and patient care.
    • Explore traditional Indian healing practices for holistic patient recovery.

    Agriculture:
    • Study traditional Indian agricultural practices like organic farming and crop rotation for sustainable food production.
    • Integrate knowledge of indigenous plant varieties and their medicinal properties into agriculture and botany courses
    • Analyze traditional water management practices for efficient irrigation systems.

    Pharmacy:
    • Explore the vast knowledge base of Ayurveda for the development of herbal medicines and drug discovery.
    • Integrate traditional Indian knowledge of medicinal plants and their properties
    • Analyze the ethical principles of Ayurveda in pharmaceutical research and development.

    Sports Science:
    • Study ancient Indian physical fitness practices like Yoga and Surya Namaskar for holistic athletic training.
    • Integrate Ayurvedic principles of diet and nutrition for optimal sports performance and injury recovery.
    • Analyze traditional Indian martial arts like Kalaripayattu for body conditioning and self-defense.

    Journalism and Media Studies:
    • Analyze the role of ancient communication systems and Sanskrit literature in the development of media.
    • Explore the principles of ethical communication from Indian scriptures and epics
    • Study the use of storytelling techniques in ancient Indian texts for effective media content creation.

    Implementation:
    • Course Design: All new and existing courses will explicitly outline linkages with the core values under relevant headings like “Learning Outcomes” or “Course Description.”
    • Faculty Training: Faculty development programs will address the integration of core values into teaching methodologies and course content.
    • Assessment: Assessment strategies will consider not only content knowledge but also the demonstration of core values in coursework and assignments.

    Assessment and Evaluation:
    • Incorporate IKS-based projects and assignments into course evaluation
    • Develop assessment rubrics that consider students’ understanding and application of IKS concepts.

    Conclusion:

    By integrating IKS into its curriculum, ITM University aims to create well-rounded graduates equipped with valuable knowledge from both traditional and contemporary sources. This approach fosters innovation, sustainability, and an appreciation for India’s rich heritage,preparing students to become responsible global citizens.


    Upcoming courses:
  • 1. भारतीय दर्शनः प्रमुख अवधारणाए
  • 2.भारतीय सामाजिक अवधारणाए
  • 3. भारतीय राजनैतिक चिन्तन-परम्परा
  • 4. भारतीय साहित्य परम्परा
  • 5.भारतीय चिन्तन में अहिंसा
  • 6.वैकल्पिक प्रौद्योगिकी (तकनीकी)
  • 7. मानवाधिकार
  • 8. स्वराज
  • 9. भारत की विज्ञान एवं तकनीकी परम्परा

  • Integrating Indian Knowledge Systems through Audit Credits at ITM University Gwalior

    Introduction:

    Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) offer a rich tapestry of wisdom and practices that have been refined over millennia. ITM University Gwalior (ITM) has taken a commendable step by organizing a vibrant calendar of IKS-related events throughout the year. We proposea “IKS Audit Credit” system to further incentivize student participation and deepen their understanding of this invaluable heritage.

    The Rationale for IKS Audit Credits:
    • Holistic Development: Equipping graduates not only with professional skills but also with cultural awareness and a sense of social responsibility aligns with ITM’s vision.
    • Experiential Learning: IKS events provide a unique platform for students to go beyond textbooks and engage with IKS through interactive discussions, music, dance, and dialogue.
    • Ethical Leaders: An emphasis on professional ethics prepares students to become ethical leaders in their chosen fields
    • Sustainable Future: Environmental awareness and sustainable practices equips students to tackle future challenges
    • Employability and Career Success: Skill development and employability focus helps students thrive in a competitive job market

    Proposed IKS Audit Credit System:
    • Audit Credits: Participation in IKS events will be credited in a fractional system (e.g.,0.25 credits per event).
    • Requirement for Progression: Students must earn a minimum of 4 IKS audit credits (e.g., attending 8 events with 0.25 credits each) to progress to the next year (exceptions for approved cases can be considered).
    • Flexibility: Students will have the freedom to choose events that align with their interests, allowing for deeper engagement in specific areas of IKS.
    • These credits can be earned throughout the academic year and will be awarded in fractions for attending various IKS events. While the credits will not be factored into SGPA or CGPA calculations, earning them will be mandatory for academic progression.


    Examples of IKS Events and Potential Credits:
    • Interactive discussions like “Meeting of Minds”: 0.5 credits
    • Classical Music Concerts and Dance Festivals: 0.25 credits
    • Lecture Series and Dialogues: 0.25 credits (depending on length and depth)
    • Theatre Festivals: 0.25 - 0.5 credits (depending on length and complexity of the production)

    Benefits:
    • Enhanced Student Engagement: The credit system incentivizes active participation in IKS events.
    • Deeper Understanding of IKS: Regular exposure enhances student understanding and appreciation for IKS principles.
    • Well-Rounded Graduates: Graduates leave ITM not only as skilled professionals, but also as informed citizens rooted in their cultural heritage. These events complement classroom learning by fostering critical thinking, cultural awareness, and environmental consciousness.
    • Holistic Development: IKS events complement classroom learning by fostering critical thinking, cultural awareness, and environmental consciousness
    • Flexibility: Students can curate their IKS learning journey by attending events that align with their interests.
    • Reduced Pressure: Fractional credits allow students to space out their attendance and manage their schedules effectively

    Implementation:
    • Clear Communication: Disseminate information about the IKS audit credit system through official channels and orientation programs.
    • Event Registration: Implement a user-friendly registration system to track student participation and credit accumulation.

    • The IKS Basket of Events

      To facilitate informed decision-making and encourage participation, ITM University Gwalior will create a comprehensive IKS Basket of Events. This online resource will list all IKS events scheduled throughout the academic year.

      The IKS Basket of Events will provide detailed information for each event, including:

    • Title: Clearly identify the event theme.
    • Description: Briefly explain the event’s purpose and content.
    • Date and Time: Facilitate scheduling and planning.
    • Speakers/Performers: Highlight expertise and attract interest.
    • Credit Value: Indicate the number of audit credits awarded for attendance
    • Category: Categorize events by theme (e.g., Social Issues, Environmental Conservation, Cultural Appreciation). This helps students choose events that align with their interests.
    • Credit Verification: The University will develop a system for verifying attendance and awarding credits efficiently.
    Conclusion:

    By introducing IKS audit credits, ITM University Gwalior can foster a vibrant and engaged learning environment that integrates invaluable Indian Knowledge Systems into the educational experience of its students. This initiative will contribute to the development of well-rounded graduates who are not only prepared for professional success but also equipped to navigate the complexities of the contemporary world with a strong sense of social responsibility and cultural identity.

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