Bridging the Past and Present: The Role of Indian Traditional Knowledge in Modern Society

Indian Traditional Knowledge (TK), a cumulative legacy of over 5,000 years, encompasses sophisticated medicine, agriculture, ecology, architecture, and governance systems. This paper examines how these knowledge systems, rooted in philosophical concepts like Dharma (ethical duty) and Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (world as one family), offer sustainable solutions to contemporary crises, including climate change, health pandemics, and food insecurity. Through empirical analysis of case studies–such as Sikkim’s organic farming revolution, the resurgence of millets, and Rajasthan’s water harvesting revival–the study demonstrates TK’s scientific validity and practical efficacy. However, threats like biopiracy, knowledge erosion, and institutional neglect persist. The paper argues that integrating TK with modern science through robust legal frameworks (e.g. Traditional Knowledge Digital Library), policy reform, community empowerment, and interdisciplinary research is essential for sustainable development. Recommendations include curriculum reform, ethical commercialisation models, and global knowledge-sharing initiatives.