Sustainability in Indian Knowledge System: A Conceptual and Empirical Study

The idea of sustainability has gained global importance in recent years due to increasing environmental degradation, climate change, and social inequalities. While sustainability is often treated as a modern concept, its roots can be traced back to ancient Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS), which emphasized harmony between human beings, nature, and society. Indian traditions evolved knowledge through observation, experience, and ethical reasoning, ensuring responsible use of natural resources and long-term societal well-being. The present study attempts to examine sustainability as an inherent principle of Indian Knowledge Systems through both conceptual understanding and empirical validation. Primary data were collected by online mode from 70 respondents using a structured questionnaire to assess awareness, relevance, and applicability of IKS-based sustainability principles. The findings indicate a high level of awareness and strong agreement regarding the relevance of Indian Knowledge Systems in addressing contemporary sustainability challenges. The study concludes that integrating Indian Knowledge Systems with modern development approaches can provide holistic, value-based, and culturally rooted solutions for sustainable development.