The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Education, Women, Children, Youth, and Sports strongly advocated prioritising research on India’s traditional knowledge systems like Vedic mathematics and heritage preservation. The committee emphasises that delving into these traditional systems not only enhances the nation’s heritage but also provides practical solutions to contemporary challenges in healthcare, agriculture, and sustainability. India’s traditional knowledge systems are of immense significance on various fronts, including Vedic mathematics, heritage preservation, and playing a pivotal role in documenting ancient wisdom and practices inherent in traditional knowledge systems. The efficacy of traditional medical systems such as Ayurveda and Yoga, sustainable agricultural practices, ecological wisdom, and efficient natural resource management is beyond any doubt now.
Undeniably, ancient India stood as the nucleus of scientific and mathematical prowess, eclipsing contemporaneous civilizations across the globe. The intellectual acumen of its denizens of that era far surpassed that of their counterparts. Precise calculations of planetary distances, the velocity of light, intricate mathematical equations-all were integral components of the mathematical lexicon of that epoch, meticulously chronicled in ancient texts, including the Vedas. In the contemporary scientific milieu, the veracity of numerous Vedic chants has incontrovertibly been established. The lamentable predicament, however, lies in the relegation of our traditional knowledge, ensconced in the nearly extinct Sanskrit, from everyday usage. The historical consumption of millets, inherently superior to human health, persisted for centuries until vested interests coerced a shift towards gluten-laden wheat, instigating a plethora of health maladies.
Simultaneously, the preeminent herbal medicinal system of yore has garnered renewed recognition. The efficacy of herbal remedies is now manifest in the colossal market share of herbal toothpaste and the unprecedented success of Chyawanprash as a preeminent immunity booster. The regular consumption of giloy, papaya leaf extracts, and other herbal concoctions during the onslaught of ailments such as COVID and dengue has become common knowledge, conferring tangible benefits upon the populace.
In the contemporary panorama, the global cognizance of the manifold advantages of yoga is palpable. The annual celebration of World Yoga Day, culminating in Prime Minister Modi orchestrating a yoga session at the United Nations, has earned the prestigious distinction of a Guinness World Record for maximum international participation. Renowned international universities have now incorporated yoga sessions into their daily curricula. The incumbent Government has evinced unwavering commitment by establishing a dedicated AYUSH Ministry to revive the erstwhile eminence of our indigenous medical systems. A proliferation of Ayurvedic hospitals across states and union territories, staffed by proficient AYUSH practitioners, attests to the palpable success of these endeavours.
A similar emphasis has been placed on the restoration of our architectural heritage. Structures designed centuries ago ingeniously harnessed natural elements to withstand both summer and winter conditions without reliance on electricity or modern gadgets. The intricacies of ancient kitchen and toilet designs showcase the sophistication of erstwhile methodologies. Hidden within the pages of our ancient texts lies an inexhaustible trove of knowledge, awaiting exploration. Notable examples, such as the Jantar Mantar in Jaipur, an assembly of 19 astronomical instruments, attest to the extraordinary advancements of that era. The mythical Sanjeevani of the Ramayana finds resonance in reality.
Regrettably, in the last century, a departure from our established traditional systems occurred. Time-honoured agricultural practices, attuned to nature and environmental preservation, were forsaken. The indisputable acclaim of indigenous cow milk as the healthiest persists. Takshashila, once a preeminent seat of learning, boasted a colossal library housing myriad ancient manuscripts. Unfortunately, the passage of time has eroded this repository of knowledge. Nonetheless, with a proactive Governmental approach, the tide is turning, heralding the reclamation of our lost glory. The Parliamentary Committee’s report constitutes a meticulously directed initiative, and with sustained efforts, the resurrection of our prodigious heritage is within reach. The global community must be apprised of the formidable knowledge repository that characterised that bygone era.
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