Digital Pedagogies and the Indian Knowledge System: Pathways to Revitalization

Abstract

Digital technologies offer unprecedented opportunities to preserve and disseminate India’s rich traditional knowledge (Ayurveda, Yoga, philosophy, arts, etc.) to modern learners. Integrating online tools (MOOCs, e learning platforms, digital archives, virtual reality) into higher education can bridge gaps between ancient wisdom and contemporary pedagogy. Recent policy initiatives (NEP 2020) and programs (SWAYAM, DIKSHA, IKS Wiki) explicitly encourage this blending of tradition and technology. Scholarly reviews report that IT-enhanced courses, blended models and digital humanities projects make IKS materials more accessible and engaging. However, experts also caution that digital approaches must be culturally sensitive and inclusive, lest the digital divide and homogenizing tendencies undermine local knowledge. This review surveys Indian and international studies on digital pedagogy for IKS domains, including case studies and government initiatives. It finds growing evidence that thoughtful use of online learning, archives and virtual platforms can revitalize IKS in higher education, while emphasizing the need to address access and authenticity challenges.