● Indian Knowledge System (IKS) – Short Answer Questions
1. Analyse how the ancient Indian education system is different from
modern education system.
The ancient Indian education system emphasized holistic development —
including spiritual, moral, and intellectual growth — often taught in gurukuls
through oral tradition and close teacher-student relationships. Education
focused on scriptures, philosophy, arts, and practical life skills.
In contrast, the modern education system is institutionalized and structured,
with a focus on formal subjects, standardized testing, and career-oriented
knowledge. It often lacks the personalized mentorship found in traditional
systems and tends to prioritize memorization over experiential learning.
2. Jeevan darshan provides a framework for interpreting life’s meaning
and one’s role in the universe – Explain it.
Jeevan Darshan refers to the Indian philosophical worldview that helps
individuals understand the purpose of life and their connection with the
universe. It teaches that life is not just material existence but a journey
toward self-realization, harmony with nature, and spiritual growth. This
framework encourages individuals to live ethically, fulfill duties (dharma),
and seek higher knowledge (jnana), ultimately leading to liberation
(moksha).
3. Write the effectiveness of CSR initiatives in improving community
welfare.
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives play a vital role in enhancing
community welfare. Through programs in education, healthcare, skill
development, and environmental sustainability, CSR helps uplift
underprivileged sections of society. It fosters inclusive growth, creates
employment opportunities, and improves living standards. CSR also builds
trust between businesses and communities, leading to long-term social and
economic development.
4. Law of humility is an element for obtaining true power – explain with
the help of historical and modern example.
The Law of Humility teaches that true strength lies in acknowledging one’s
limitations and learning from others. It promotes self-awareness, respect,
and continuous growth.
Historical example: Mahatma Gandhi embraced humility, living simply and
listening to all, which gave him immense moral power and inspired millions
during India’s freedom struggle.
Modern example: A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, despite being a top scientist and
President of India, remained humble and connected with youth, earning
great respect and admiration.
5. Explain that the great law assist individuals reach personal progress
and well being.
The Great Law states that whatever we give to the universe comes back to
us. It encourages individuals to act with kindness, responsibility, and
positivity. By making conscious choices and treating others well, people
experience inner growth, improved relationships, and emotional balance —
all leading to personal progress and overall well-being.
6. Philosophy and spirituality are the pillars of IKS – explain.
Philosophy and spirituality form the foundation of the Indian Knowledge
System (IKS). Indian philosophy promotes deep inquiry into the nature of life,
truth, and consciousness, while spirituality emphasizes inner growth, self-
realization, and harmony with the universe. Together, they guide ethical
living, holistic education, and sustainable practices, making IKS rich in
wisdom and relevance.
7. Write the importance of Indian indigenous knowledge in sustainable
development practices.
Indian indigenous knowledge promotes harmony with nature through
practices like organic farming, water conservation, and herbal medicine. It
emphasizes minimal waste, local resources, and long-term ecological
balance. These traditional methods are environment-friendly, cost-effective,
and crucial for achieving sustainable development in modern times.
8. Longevity and rejuvenation are prioritized in Ayurveda – explain this.
Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine, places great importance
on longevity (deerghayu) and rejuvenation (rasayana). It promotes a
balanced lifestyle, proper diet, daily routines, and natural therapies to
prevent diseases and maintain vitality. Rasayana therapies in Ayurveda are
specifically designed to restore body tissues, boost immunity, delay aging,
and enhance overall well-being, helping individuals live a long and healthy
life.
9. Name and describe this kind of action.
This kind of action is called Selfless Action or Nishkama Karma in Indian
philosophy. It refers to performing one’s duties without attachment to the
results or personal gain. Rooted in the Bhagavad Gita, it teaches that actions
done with sincerity, responsibility, and for the greater good lead to inner
peace and spiritual growth. Such actions benefit society while also uplifting
the individual.
10. Explain some steps that can be taken to mitigate climate
change.
To mitigate climate change, several steps can be taken:
1. Switch to renewable energy sources like solar and wind to reduce
carbon emissions.
2. Promote afforestation and protect existing forests to absorb CO₂.
3. Adopt sustainable practices such as reducing plastic use, conserving
water, and using public transport.
4. Encourage eco-friendly technology and energy-efficient appliances.
These steps help reduce environmental impact and support long-term
planetary health.
11. State that utilisation of unethical business practices hurts firms
and society.
Unethical business practices such as false advertising, exploitation, or
environmental harm damage a firm’s reputation and lead to legal
consequences. They reduce consumer trust and employee morale, ultimately
harming profitability. On a larger scale, such practices create social injustice,
environmental degradation, and economic inequality, negatively affecting
society as a whole.
12. Explain how ancient education system promoted self-
management and personal growth.
The ancient Indian education system, especially in gurukuls, focused on
discipline, simplicity, and value-based learning. Students lived close to
nature and followed strict routines that promoted time management, self-
control, and independence. Along with academic knowledge, they were
taught ethics, responsibility, and meditation, which fostered inner growth,
emotional balance, and strong character—laying a foundation for lifelong
self-management and personal development.
13. Write down the practices adopted by business to achieve
economic sustainability.
To achieve economic sustainability, businesses adopt several key practices:
1. Efficient resource management – reducing waste and optimizing
energy use.
2. Investing in innovation – developing eco-friendly products and services.
3. Supporting local supply chains – boosting community economies.
4. Long-term planning – focusing on stable growth over short-term profit.
These practices help reduce costs, improve resilience, and ensure long-term
financial health while being socially responsible.
● Final Corrected MCQ Answers
1. State how Indian companies use CSR.
→ They support community development.
2. State the influence of the law of responsibility on work ethics.
→ Accepting responsibility improves ethical behavior.
3. State the ethical aspect of CSR by Indian companies.
→ It is voluntary.
4. Explain the law of connection.
→ Every action is connected to the future.
5. State how Indigenous Knowledge contributes to sustainable
agriculture.
→ It encourages crop diversity.
6. Which law of karma states that whatever you do will come back to
you?
→ The Great Law.
7. Write the core principle of self-management.
→ Personal growth.
8. State the impact of the colonial period on IKS.
→ It caused suppression and marginalization of Indigenous Knowledge
Systems.
9. Define the Gita in Vedic philosophy.
→ It represents the concept of cosmic order.
10. State the significance of karma in achieving professional
excellence.
→ Through ethical action and responsibility.
11. State the role of Corporate Social Responsibility in addressing
socio-economic imbalance.
→ It creates job opportunities.
12. Impact of the law of responsibility on career advancement and
growth.
→ Builds trust and promotes growth.
13. Explain the impact of practices which involved secret sounds
believed to have healing properties.
→ Vedic mantras.
14. Explain the impact of practicing the law of growth in a team.
→ Encourages collective progress and collaboration.
15. State the importance of the iron pillar of Vedic India in IKS.
→ Example of advanced Indian metallurgy.
16. State the contribution of Brihadeeswara Temple to Indian
architecture.
→ It is an architectural marvel.
