INDIAN KNOWLEDGE SYSTEM UNIT - 01

IKS MCQs - UNIT 1

1. The Indian Knowledge System (IKS) refers to:
A) Only religious practices in India B) Knowledge traditions rooted in ancient and classical Indian civilization
C) Western science adapted in India D) Government policies on education
Answer: B) Knowledge traditions rooted in ancient and classical Indian civilization
2. Which of the following is NOT typically considered part of Indian Knowledge Systems?
A) Ayurveda B) Classical music C) Astronomy D) Artificial Intelligence
Answer: D) Artificial Intelligence
3. Indian Knowledge Systems are primarily based on:
A) Imported European ideas B) Experiential learning and deep observation
C) Internet-based research D) Laboratory testing only
Answer: B) Experiential learning and deep observation
4. The Vedas, Upanishads, and Smritis are important texts in IKS because they:
A) Focus solely on religious dogma B) Outline India's political system
C) Contain philosophical, scientific, and ethical knowledge D) Are fictional stories
Answer: C) Contain philosophical, scientific, and ethical knowledge
5. Which of the following fields are covered under Indian Knowledge Systems?
A) Only spiritual practices B) Literature, mathematics, architecture, health, and ecology
C) Only agriculture and dance D) Only engineering and medicine
Answer: B) Literature, mathematics, architecture, health, and ecology
6. The Indian Knowledge System emphasizes:
A) Dualism only B) Rote memorization
C) Integration of material and spiritual understanding D) Pure materialism
Answer: C) Integration of material and spiritual understanding
7. Which ancient Indian mathematician is associated with contributions to IKS?
A) Socrates B) Aryabhata C) Einstein D) Newton
Answer: B) Aryabhata
8. What is the role of Sanskrit in Indian Knowledge Systems?
A) It is used for writing modern law codes B) It is the medium for transmitting much of classical IKS literature
C) It is used only in religious chants D) It is the official language of India
Answer: B) It is the medium for transmitting much of classical IKS literature
9. The IKS approach to education traditionally includes:
A) Only classroom-based learning B) Rigid testing and grading systems
C) Gurukula system promoting teacher-student interaction and holistic growth D) Virtual lectures only
Answer: C) Gurukula system promoting teacher-student interaction and holistic growth
10. What does the term “Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS)” refer to?
A) Indian inventions in the 21st century B) British education system in India C) Indigenous and classical traditions of
knowledge developed in India over millennia D) Western scientific models adapted to Indian society
Answer: C) Indigenous and classical traditions of knowledge developed in India over millennia
11. Which of the following is a major component of IKS?
A) Only mythology and folktales B) Philosophy, health sciences, mathematics, art, and architecture
C) Only engineering and AI D) Only modern political science
Answer: B) Philosophy, health sciences, mathematics, art, and architecture
12. The Indian Knowledge System is primarily transmitted through:
A) Social media platforms B) Foreign universities
C) Oral tradition, texts like Vedas, Upanishads, and through the Gurukula system D) Only through British colonial documents
Answer: C) Oral tradition, texts like Vedas, Upanishads, and through the Gurukula system
13. The main goal of Indian Knowledge Systems was to:
A) Train rulers for war B) Accumulate wealth C) Integrate spiritual, ethical, and practical wisdom for a harmonious life
D) Encourage industrial revolution
Answer: C) Integrate spiritual, ethical, and practical wisdom for a harmonious life
14. Which of the following ancient texts is foundational to IKS?
A) Magna Carta B) Constitution of India C) Rigveda D) Communist Manifesto
Answer: C) Rigveda
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15. In Indian tradition, which branch of knowledge deals with medicine and health?
A) Jyotisha B) Arthashastra C) Ayurveda D) Natyashastra
Answer: C) Ayurveda

16. Which system of traditional education encouraged holistic learning through direct teacher-student interaction?
A) Online MOOCs B) Gurukula system C) Madrasah system D) British missionary schools
Answer: B) Gurukula system
17. The six Vedangas are associated with:
A) Commerce and business B) Warfare and weapons C) Supportive sciences to understand the Vedas
D) Modern psychology
Answer: C) Supportive sciences to understand the Vedas
18. Which of the following statements about IKS is false?
A) IKS emphasizes interdependence between nature and human life B) IKS is limited only to religious dogma
C) IKS includes rational inquiry, logic, and empirical practices D) IKS influenced global scientific and philosophical thought
Answer: B) IKS is limited only to religious dogma
19. Why is it important to study Indian Knowledge Systems today?
A) To memorize ancient verses only B) To reject all modern sciences
C) To create culturally rooted, sustainable, and inclusive development models D) To return to feudal systems
Answer: C) To create culturally rooted, sustainable, and inclusive development models
MCQs on Vedic Corpus
20. Which of the following is the oldest text in the Vedic corpus?
A) Yajurveda B) Samaveda C) Rigveda D) Atharvaveda
Answer: C) Rigveda
21. The Vedic corpus is traditionally divided into how many parts?
A) Two B) Four C) Six D) Eight
Answer: B) Four

22. The term 'Samhita' in the Vedic context refers to:

A) Philosophical commentaries B) Hymns and mantras
C) Ritual formulas and sacrifices D) Historical accounts
Answer: B) Hymns and mantras
23. Which Veda primarily consists of musical chants and melodies?
A) Rigveda B) Yajurveda C) Samaveda D) Atharvaveda
Answer: C) Samaveda
24. The Brahmanas are prose texts that explain:
A) The mantras of the Samhitas B) The grammatical rules of Sanskrit
C) Laws of conduct D) Yoga practices
Answer: A) The mantras of the Samhitas
25. The 'Upanishads' form the core of which aspect of Vedic literature?
A) Ritualistic B) Philosophical C) Mythological D) Legal
Answer: B) Philosophical
26. The Yajurveda is mainly concerned with:
A) Healing spells and magic B) Ritual formulas and sacrifices
C) Music and melody D) Cosmological speculations
Answer: B) Ritual formulas and sacrifices
27. Which Veda is known for including material on medicine and sorcery?
A) Rigveda B) Samaveda C) Yajurveda D) Atharvaveda
Answer: D) Atharvaveda
28. The Aranyakas are associated with:
A) Temple rituals B) Householder duties C) Forest-dwelling sages and meditative practices
D) Royal courts
Answer: C) Forest-dwelling sages and meditative practices
29. The language of the Vedas is known as:
A) Prakrit B) Classical Sanskrit C) Vedic Sanskrit D) Pali
Answer: C) Vedic Sanskrit
30. The Vedic corpus primarily refers to which group of texts?
A) Epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata B) The four Vedas – Rigveda, Samaveda, Yajurveda, and Atharvaveda
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C) Puranas and Smritis D) Buddhist Tripitaka
Answer: B) The four Vedas – Rigveda, Samaveda, Yajurveda, and Atharvaveda
31. The Rigveda is primarily composed of:
A) Ritual manuals B) Chants and melodies C) Hymns and praises to deities D) Magical spells
Answer: C) Hymns and praises to deities
32. The Samaveda is most closely associated with:
A) Grammar B) Music and chanting in rituals C) Ayurveda D) Warfare
Answer: B) Music and chanting in rituals
33. The Yajurveda mainly contains:
A) Philosophical dialogues B) Ritual formulas and instructions
C) Astronomical tables D) Love stories
Answer: B) Ritual formulas and instructions
34. The Atharvaveda differs from the other three Vedas because it includes:
A) Pure mathematics B) Spells, charms, and daily life rituals C) Only hymns D) Political theories
Answer: B) Spells, charms, and daily life rituals
35. Which part of the Vedas contains philosophical and metaphysical ideas?
A) Samhitas B) Brahmanas C) Aranyakas D) Upanishads
Answer: D) Upanishads
36. The Brahmanas are a class of Vedic texts that explain:
A) Astronomy B) Dance and music C) Rituals and sacrificial ceremonies D) Laws and punishments
Answer: C) Rituals and sacrificial ceremonies
37. The term Shruti in Indian tradition refers to:
A) What is remembered B) What is imagined C) That which is heard – divinely revealed texts
D) Local folk tales
Answer: C) That which is heard – divinely revealed texts
38. The Vedangas are:
A) Non-religious texts B) Appendices to the Vedas dealing with sciences like phonetics, grammar, and astronomy
C) Later-day novels D) Buddhist commentaries
Answer: B) Appendices to the Vedas dealing with sciences like phonetics, grammar, and astronomy
39. The Upanishads explore which of the following central concepts?
A) Politics and economics B) Dharma as criminal law
C) The nature of self (Atman) and ultimate reality (Brahman) D) Agricultural practices
Answer: C) The nature of self (Atman) and ultimate reality (Brahman)
40. The earliest of the four Vedas is generally considered to be:
A) Atharvaveda B) Samaveda C) Rigveda D) Yajurveda
Answer: C) Rigveda
41. The language of the Vedic corpus is primarily:
A) Prakrit B) Classical Sanskrit C) Vedic Sanskrit D) Pali
Answer: C) Vedic Sanskrit
42. The Aranyakas are texts meant for:
A) Ritual specialists in cities B) Study and meditation in the forest C) Kings and rulers D) Children’s education
Answer: B) Study and meditation in the forest
43. Which of the following Vedic texts is mainly a manual for priests performing sacrifices?
A) Upanishads B) Brahmanas C) Samhitas D) Aranyakas
Answer: B) Brahmanas
44. The concept of Rta in the Vedas refers to:
A) Moral and cosmic order B) A ritual fire C) A deity of wealth D) A sacred animal
Answer: A) Moral and cosmic order
45. Which Veda is closely linked with the development of Indian classical music?
A) Rigveda B) Samaveda C) Atharvaveda D) Yajurveda
Answer: B) Samaveda
46. The Gayatri Mantra, one of the most famous mantras, is found in which Veda?
A) Rigveda B) Samaveda C) Atharvaveda D) Yajurveda
Answer: A) Rigveda
47. The Samhitas in the Vedic corpus consist mainly of:
A) Philosophical discourses B) Hymns and mantras C) Rules of grammar D) Stories of gods
Answer: B) Hymns and mantras
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48. The Upanishads are considered:
A) The concluding part of the Vedas B) Historical chronicles C) Medical texts D) Manuals of warfare
Answer: A) The concluding part of the Vedas
49. The process of chanting Vedic hymns with precise pronunciation and intonation is called:
A) Svadhyaya B) Sandhya C) Svara D) Mantra Vidya
Answer: C) Svara

MCQs on Indian Knowledge System – Philosophy

50. How many orthodox (Āstika) schools of Indian philosophy are traditionally recognized?
A) 3 B) 6 C) 9 D) 4
Answer: B) 6
51. Which of the following is NOT one of the six orthodox schools of Indian philosophy?
A) Nyāya B) Vedānta C) Cārvāka D) Sāṃkhya
Answer: C) Cārvāka
52. The Mimāṃsā school primarily deals with:
A) Metaphysics B) Logic C) Rituals and Dharma D) Meditation techniques
Answer: C) Rituals and Dharma
53. The founder of the Nyāya school of philosophy is traditionally considered to be:
A) Gautama B) Kanada C) Kapila D) Patañjali
Answer: A) Gautama
54. Which school of Indian philosophy propounded the concept of “Purusha” and “Prakriti”?
A) Nyāya B) Sāṃkhya C) Yoga D) Vedānta
Answer: B) Sāṃkhya
55. The Yoga school of Indian philosophy is based on the teachings of which sage?
A) Kapila B) Patañjali C) Bādarāyaṇa D) Jaimini
Answer: B) Patañjali
56. The Vaiśeṣika school is known for its:
A) Emphasis on meditation B) Atomic theory and categories of reality C) Theory of karma D) Non-dualism
Answer: B) Atomic theory and categories of reality
57. The Advaita Vedānta school teaches that:
A) God and soul are different B) Only material things are real
C) The individual self (Ātman) is identical to Brahman D) Rituals are the only path to liberation
Answer: C) The individual self (Ātman) is identical to Brahman
58. Which heterodox (Nāstika) school of Indian philosophy is known for its materialist and skeptical outlook?
A) Jainism B) Buddhism C) Cārvāka D) Sāṃkhya
Answer: C) Cārvāka
59. The concept of “Pramāṇa” in Indian philosophy refers to:
A) Liberation B) Mental concentration C) Means of valid knowledge D) Rebirth
Answer: C) Means of valid knowledge
60. Which of the following is NOT one of the six classical schools (Darshanas) of Indian philosophy?
A) Nyaya B) Vaisheshika C) Sankhya D) Buddhism
Answer: D) Buddhism
61. The concept of “Brahman” in Indian philosophy refers to:
A) A priestly caste B) Ultimate, unchanging reality C) A ritual fire D) Worldly pleasures
Answer: B) Ultimate, unchanging reality
62. Who is considered the founder of the Nyaya school of philosophy?
A) Kanada B) Gautama C) Patanjali D) Shankara
Answer: B) Gautama
63. The Sankhya philosophy is primarily:
A) Theistic B) Dualistic, distinguishing Purusha (consciousness) and Prakriti (matter)
C) Monistic D) A form of devotional worship
Answer: B) Dualistic, distinguishing Purusha (consciousness) and Prakriti (matter)
64. The Upanishads primarily focus on:
A) Ritual sacrifices B) Metaphysical knowledge and self-realization
C) Political governance D) Grammar and linguistics
Answer: B) Metaphysical knowledge and self-realization

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65. Advaita Vedanta, established by Adi Shankaracharya, teaches:
A) Dualism between soul and God B) Non-dualism – the identity of Atman and Brahman
C) The impermanence of reality D) Ritualistic worship as the sole path
Answer: B) Non-dualism – the identity of Atman and Brahman
66. The philosophical school that emphasizes logic and epistemology is:
A) Samkhya B) Nyaya C) Mimamsa D) Vaisheshika
Answer: B) Nyaya
67. Which school of Indian philosophy focuses mainly on dharma and ritual duties?
A) Mimamsa B) Yoga C) Vaisheshika D) Charvaka
Answer: A) Mimamsa
68. Which Indian philosophical system is materialistic and rejects the concept of an afterlife?
A) Vedanta B) Samkhya C) Charvaka (Lokayata) D) Yoga
Answer: C) Charvaka (Lokayata)
69. The ultimate goal (moksha) in most Indian philosophical systems means:
A) Accumulating wealth B) Liberation from the cycle of birth and death
C) Political power D) Physical immortality
Answer: B) Liberation from the cycle of birth and death
70. The founder of the Vaisheshika school of philosophy is:
A) Kapila B) Kanada C) Patanjali D) Jaimini
Answer: B) Kanada
71. According to Samkhya philosophy, the two fundamental realities are:
A) Dharma and Karma B) Purusha and Prakriti C) Atman and Brahman D) Rta and Rita
Answer: B) Purusha and Prakriti
72. Which of the following texts is associated with the Yoga school of Indian philosophy?
A) Bhagavad Gita B) Yoga Sutras of Patanjali C) Nyaya Sutras D) Mimamsa Sutras
Answer: B) Yoga Sutras of Patanjali
73. The Charvaka philosophy is known for its:
A) Emphasis on meditation and asceticism B) Materialism and skepticism about supernatural concepts
C) Devotion to Lord Shiva D) Ritualistic practices
Answer: B) Materialism and skepticism about supernatural concepts
74. The term “Atman” in Indian philosophy refers to:
A) The physical body B) The individual soul or self C) A type of ritual D) The external world
Answer: B) The individual soul or self
75. Which school of Indian philosophy gives primary importance to pramana (means of valid knowledge)?
A) Vedanta B) Nyaya C) Yoga D) Samkhya
Answer: B) Nyaya
76. According to Advaita Vedanta, the world (Jagat) is:
A) Real and independent B) An illusion (Maya) C) Separate from Brahman D) Eternal and unchanging
Answer: B) An illusion (Maya)
77. The Mimamsa school mainly focuses on:
A) Liberation through knowledge of Brahman B) Interpretation of Vedic rituals and dharma
C) Yoga and meditation D) Materialist philosophy
Answer: B) Interpretation of Vedic rituals and dharma
78. Who is the author of the Bhagavad Gita, a key text in Indian philosophy?
A) Vyasa B) Valmiki C) Panini D) Patanjali
Answer: A) Vyasa
79. Which of these concepts is central to the Jain philosophy?
A) Karma and non-violence (Ahimsa) B) Ritual sacrifice C) Monotheism D) Materialism
Answer: A) Karma and non-violence (Ahimsa)
MCQs on Character – Scope and Importance
80. Which of the following best defines 'character'?
A) A person’s physical appearance B) The ability to influence others
C) A set of moral and ethical traits that guide behavior D) A person's academic achievements
Answer: C) A set of moral and ethical traits that guide behavior
81. Which of the following is NOT a component of good character?
A) Honesty B) Responsibility C) Deceit D) Compassion
Answer: C) Deceit
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82. Why is character considered important in personal development?
A) It enhances physical strength B) It determines wealth and fame
C) It guides ethical decision-making and builds trust D) It improves memory retention
Answer: C) It guides ethical decision-making and builds trust
83. The development of character primarily involves:
A) Technical skill acquisition B) Intellectual debates C) Cultivation of virtues and self-discipline
D) Memorizing facts
Answer: C) Cultivation of virtues and self-discipline
84. Which ancient Indian text emphasizes the role of character in achieving Dharma?
A) Arthashastra B) Ramayana C) Bhagavad Gita D) Yoga Sutras
Answer: C) Bhagavad Gita
85. In the Indian Knowledge System, which concept is closely linked with the development of character?
A) Karma B) Maya C) Moksha D) Tantra
Answer: A) Karma
86. Which of the following traits is NOT associated with a person of strong character?
A) Integrity B) Accountability C) Arrogance D) Empathy
Answer: C) Arrogance
87. How does character influence society?
A) It promotes competition among individuals B) It leads to the development of stronger moral communities
C) It helps avoid taxes D) It increases entertainment options
Answer: B) It leads to the development of stronger moral communities
88. Character education in schools is important because:
A) It replaces academic subjects B) It helps create well-rounded individuals who contribute positively to society
C) It eliminates the need for rules D) It focuses only on religious instruction
Answer: B) It helps create well-rounded individuals who contribute positively to society
89. Which of the following methods best helps in character building?
A) Watching motivational videos B) Regular exams C) Practicing ethical behavior and reflection
D) Winning competitions
Answer: C) Practicing ethical behavior and reflection
90. The Indian Knowledge System (IKS) is characterized by its emphasis on:
A) Purely materialistic knowledge B) Integration of spiritual, ethical, and practical wisdom
C) Western scientific methods only D) Secular and non-spiritual knowledge
Answer: B) Integration of spiritual, ethical, and practical wisdom
91. Which of the following best describes the scope of Indian Knowledge Systems?
A) Limited only to religious practices B) Covers diverse fields including philosophy, science, arts, medicine, and governance
C) Only mythology and folklore D) Only modern technological advancements
Answer: B) Covers diverse fields including philosophy, science, arts, medicine, and governance
92. The importance of Indian Knowledge Systems today lies in:
A) Preserving cultural heritage and promoting sustainable development B) Rejecting modern science completely
C) Focusing solely on ancient rituals D) Avoiding interdisciplinary studies
Answer: A) Preserving cultural heritage and promoting sustainable development
93. The Indian Knowledge System traditionally transmits knowledge primarily through:
A) Written textbooks only B) Oral traditions, Gurukula system, and scriptures
C) Internet and digital media D) Foreign educational institutions
Answer: B) Oral traditions, Gurukula system, and scriptures
94. One of the key features of IKS is its:
A) Focus on narrow specialization B) Holistic approach integrating life, nature, and cosmos
C) Isolation from societal needs D) Rejection of ethical considerations
Answer: B) Holistic approach integrating life, nature, and cosmos
95. Which of the following is NOT considered a domain of Indian Knowledge Systems?
A) Ayurveda B) Yoga C) Quantum Mechanics D) Classical arts and architecture
Answer: C) Quantum Mechanics
96. The term “Scope” of Indian Knowledge System refers to:
A) The range of topics and disciplines it covers B) Its limitation to religious texts
C) Its geographic confinement only to India D) Its use in political propaganda
Answer: A) The range of topics and disciplines it covers

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97. Indian Knowledge Systems emphasize which of the following values?
A) Individualism without social responsibility B) Ethical living, Dharma, and community welfare
C) Material wealth as the highest goal D) Blind faith without inquiry
Answer: B) Ethical living, Dharma, and community welfare
98. The importance of studying IKS includes:
A) Promoting knowledge only for elite classes B) Reviving indigenous knowledge to solve contemporary problems
C) Ignoring environmental sustainability D) Exclusively focusing on ancient history
Answer: B) Reviving indigenous knowledge to solve contemporary problems
99. Which of the following best explains the character of Indian Knowledge Systems?
A) Fragmented and inconsistent B) Dynamic, evolving, and rooted in experience and spirituality
C) Static and rigid D) Dependent entirely on external influences
Answer: B) Dynamic, evolving, and rooted in experience and spirituality
100. Indian Knowledge Systems traditionally emphasize the relationship between:
A) Humans and technology only B) Humans, nature, and cosmos in a holistic manner
C) Economy and politics only D) Mathematics and engineering only
Answer: B) Humans, nature, and cosmos in a holistic manner
101. The interdisciplinary nature of Indian Knowledge Systems means:
A) It studies knowledge in isolated disciplines only B) It integrates multiple areas such as philosophy, science, art, and ethics
C) It ignores empirical evidence D) It limits knowledge to scriptures only
Answer: B) It integrates multiple areas such as philosophy, science, art, and ethics
102. Which of the following is a distinctive feature of the Indian Knowledge System compared to Western knowledge systems?
A) Focus on purely objective data without spirituality B) Integration of spiritual experience and practical life
C) Exclusive reliance on laboratory experiments D) Lack of philosophical inquiry
Answer: B) Integration of spiritual experience and practical life
103. The knowledge in Indian systems is often contextualized according to:
A) Universal laws only B) The individual’s role in society and dharma C) Political ideology D) Economic status
Answer: B) The individual’s role in society and dharma
104. The Indian Knowledge System contributes to sustainability by:
A) Promoting rapid industrialization B) Advocating harmony with nature and responsible use of resources
C) Focusing on urban development only D) Rejecting environmental concerns
Answer: B) Advocating harmony with nature and responsible use of resources
105. The study of Indian Knowledge Systems today can help in:
A) Enhancing only religious practices B) Developing innovative solutions rooted in indigenous wisdom
C) Ignoring modern technology D) Rejecting scientific progress
Answer: B) Developing innovative solutions rooted in indigenous wisdom
106. Which of these best illustrates the practical importance of Indian Knowledge Systems?
A) Use of Ayurveda for healthcare B) Studying only ancient rituals without application
C) Limiting knowledge to mythology D) Avoiding scientific research
Answer: A) Use of Ayurveda for healthcare
107. Indian Knowledge Systems view knowledge as:
A) Static and unchanging B) Dynamic and evolving with time and context
C) Irrelevant to daily life D) Separate from ethics and values
Answer: B) Dynamic and evolving with time and context
108. The importance of Indian Knowledge Systems in education lies in:
A) Promoting rote learning only B) Encouraging critical thinking and holistic development
C) Isolating education from culture D) Disregarding experiential knowledge
Answer: B) Encouraging critical thinking and holistic development
109. Indian Knowledge Systems are often described as:
A) Exclusively theoretical B) Practical, experiential, and interconnected with life
C) Opposed to all forms of science D) Limited to ancient history
Answer: B) Practical, experiential, and interconnected with life
MCQs on Traditional Knowledge vis-à-vis Indigenous Knowledge
110. Traditional Knowledge (TK) refers to:
A) Modern scientific inventions B) Cultural practices, skills, and beliefs passed down through generations
C) Business management strategies D) Government policies
Answer: B) Cultural practices, skills, and beliefs passed down through generations

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111. Indigenous Knowledge (IK) is primarily held by:
A) Urban communities B) Multinational companies C) Indigenous and local communities
D) National governments
Answer: C) Indigenous and local communities
112. Which of the following is a key feature of both TK and IK?
A) Standardized through written laws B) Static and unchanging
C) Closely linked to the local environment and culture D) Disconnected from daily life
Answer: C) Closely linked to the local environment and culture
113. The main difference between TK and IK is:
A) TK is oral while IK is written B) TK includes broader cultural knowledge, while IK is specific to indigenous groups
C) IK is more modern than TK D) TK is less accurate than IK
Answer: B) TK includes broader cultural knowledge, while IK is specific to indigenous groups
114. Why is Indigenous Knowledge important in sustainable development?
A) It supports industrial expansion B) It helps in preserving biodiversity and managing natural resources
C) It relies heavily on fossil fuels D) It promotes consumerism
Answer: B) It helps in preserving biodiversity and managing natural resources
115. Traditional medicine, agricultural practices, and weather forecasting are examples of:
A) Modern scientific methods B) Globalized education
C) Traditional and Indigenous Knowledge systems D) Internet-based technologies
Answer: C) Traditional and Indigenous Knowledge systems
116. One challenge in protecting Indigenous Knowledge is:
A) Lack of international recognition and intellectual property protection B) Excessive government funding
C) Over-documentation D) Universal standardization
Answer: A) Lack of international recognition and intellectual property protection
117. In the context of IKS (Indian Knowledge Systems), which of the following is an example of TK/IK?
A) Ayurveda B) Email communication C) Cryptocurrency D) Modern AI algorithms
Answer: A) Ayurveda
118. How is traditional knowledge typically transmitted?
A) Through international conferences B) Via academic journals only
C) Orally and through practical demonstration across generations D) Through global satellite systems
Answer: C) Orally and through practical demonstration across generations
119. The integration of TK/IK with modern science can:
A) Create confusion and conflict B) Dilute indigenous identity
C) Enhance holistic approaches to problem-solving and innovation D) Eliminate the need for cultural preservation
Answer: C) Enhance holistic approaches to problem-solving and innovation
MCQs on Indian Knowledge Systems: Traditional Knowledge vs. Indigenous Knowledge
120. Traditional knowledge (TK) primarily refers to:
A) Knowledge created only in modern laboratories
B) Knowledge developed, preserved, and transmitted within communities over generations
C) Knowledge exclusive to Western societies D) Only written knowledge
Answer: B) Knowledge developed, preserved, and transmitted within communities over generations
121. Indigenous knowledge (IK) is best described as:
A) Knowledge specific to indigenous peoples, deeply connected to their local environment and culture
B) Universal scientific knowledge C) Knowledge imported from other cultures D) Knowledge only about medicine
Answer: A) Knowledge specific to indigenous peoples, deeply connected to their local environment and culture
122. One key difference between traditional knowledge and indigenous knowledge is that:
A) Traditional knowledge is always written; indigenous knowledge is always oral
B) Indigenous knowledge is localized and community-specific; traditional knowledge can be broader and shared across cultures
C) Indigenous knowledge is scientific; traditional knowledge is mythical
D) There is no difference between the two
Answer: B) Indigenous knowledge is localized and community-specific; traditional knowledge can be broader and shared across
cultures
123. Both traditional and indigenous knowledge systems emphasize:
A) Sustainable use of natural resources and harmony with nature B) Exploitation of nature for economic gain
C) Reliance solely on modern technology D) Exclusive focus on written texts
Answer: A) Sustainable use of natural resources and harmony with nature

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124. Indian Knowledge Systems integrate traditional and indigenous knowledge primarily through:
A) Western scientific methods B) Oral traditions, rituals, and experiential learning
C) Digital archives only D) Government textbooks exclusively
Answer: B) Oral traditions, rituals, and experiential learning
125. Indigenous knowledge is often:
A) Static and unchanging B) Dynamic and adaptive to environmental changes
C) Only concerned with agriculture D) Irrelevant to contemporary issues
Answer: B) Dynamic and adaptive to environmental changes
126. Which of the following is an example of indigenous knowledge?
A) Modern physics B) Traditional herbal medicine used by tribal communities
C) Internet technology D) International law
Answer: B) Traditional herbal medicine used by tribal communities
127. Traditional knowledge differs from Western scientific knowledge in that it:
A) Relies heavily on empirical observation and experimentation only
B) Includes spiritual, cultural, and ethical dimensions along with practical knowledge
C) Rejects all forms of innovation D) Is documented in scientific journals only
Answer: B) Includes spiritual, cultural, and ethical dimensions along with practical knowledge
128. The protection of traditional and indigenous knowledge is important because:
A) It helps preserve cultural identity and biodiversity B) It limits cultural exchange
C) It is obsolete and irrelevant D) It discourages modern education
Answer: A) It helps preserve cultural identity and biodiversity
129. In the context of Indian Knowledge Systems, which approach helps bridge traditional and indigenous knowledge with
modern science?
A) Complete replacement of traditional knowledge by modern science
B) Integrative and interdisciplinary approaches that respect both knowledge systems
C) Ignoring traditional knowledge entirely D) Rejecting modern scientific advancements
Answer: B) Integrative and interdisciplinary approaches that respect both knowledge systems
130. Traditional knowledge is often transmitted through:
A) Formal schooling only B) Oral traditions, rituals, and practices passed down generations
C) Scientific publications only D) Internet blogs only
Answer: B) Oral traditions, rituals, and practices passed down generations
131. Indigenous knowledge systems are closely tied to:
A) Global technological networks B) Local ecosystems and community-specific experiences
C) International law frameworks D) Urban development policies
Answer: B) Local ecosystems and community-specific experiences
132. Which of the following best describes the nature of indigenous knowledge?
A) It is universal and applies equally everywhere B) It is place-based and culturally specific
C) It is identical to Western scientific knowledge D) It is purely mythological with no practical value
Answer: B) It is place-based and culturally specific
133. The term “biocultural diversity” relates to:
A) Diversity in political systems B) The interlinked diversity of biological species and cultural practices
C) Only biological species diversity D) Only cultural festivals
Answer: B) The interlinked diversity of biological species and cultural practices
134. An important reason for documenting traditional and indigenous knowledge is to:
A) Commercialize it without consent B) Prevent loss of valuable cultural and ecological knowledge
C) Replace it with modern science D) Limit community use of resources
Answer: B) Prevent loss of valuable cultural and ecological knowledge
135. The Nagoya Protocol under the Convention on Biological Diversity deals with:
A) Intellectual property rights of traditional knowledge and benefit-sharing B) Climate change only
C) International trade agreements D) Nuclear disarmament
Answer: A) Intellectual property rights of traditional knowledge and benefit-sharing
136. Which of the following is a challenge in protecting traditional and indigenous knowledge?
A) Lack of interest from communities B) Misappropriation and lack of proper legal recognition
C) Excessive government support D) Over-documentation
Answer: B) Misappropriation and lack of proper legal recognition
137. Traditional knowledge and indigenous knowledge contribute significantly to:
A) Innovations in agriculture, medicine, and environmental management B) Only religious ceremonies
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C) Urban industrial planning exclusively D) Global stock markets
Answer: A) Innovations in agriculture, medicine, and environmental management
138. In India, the Traditional Knowledge Digital Library (TKDL) was established to:
A) Digitize ancient Indian texts only B) Document traditional medicinal knowledge to prevent patenting by others
C) Promote Western medicine only D) Archive Bollywood scripts
Answer: B) Document traditional medicinal knowledge to prevent patenting by others
139. Which of the following statements about indigenous knowledge is TRUE?
A) It is irrelevant to sustainable development B) It is a dynamic system that evolves with changing circumstances
C) It rejects all modern technology D) It cannot be combined with scientific knowledge
Answer: B) It is a dynamic system that evolves with changing circumstances
MCQs on Traditional Knowledge vs. Western Knowledge
140. One major difference between traditional knowledge and Western knowledge is:
A) Traditional knowledge is written; Western knowledge is oral B) Traditional knowledge is empirical; Western knowledge is
superstitious C) Traditional knowledge is holistic; Western knowledge is analytical and reductionist
D) Both are always religious
Answer: C) Traditional knowledge is holistic; Western knowledge is analytical and reductionist
141. Western knowledge systems primarily rely on:
A) Oral traditions and intuition B) Empirical evidence and experimentation C) Cultural myths
D) Spiritual revelations
Answer: B) Empirical evidence and experimentation
142. Traditional knowledge is generally:
A) Globally standardized B) Context-specific and transmitted through generations C) The same across all cultures
D) Controlled by international law
Answer: B) Context-specific and transmitted through generations
143. A key characteristic of Western scientific knowledge is:
A) It is not subject to testing B) It is based on formal hypotheses and peer-reviewed research
C) It disregards observations D) It does not evolve over time
Answer: B) It is based on formal hypotheses and peer-reviewed research
144. Which of the following is a strength of traditional knowledge systems?
A) Dependence on complex technologies B) Universal applicability without cultural context
C) Sustainable resource use and ecological balance D) Lack of adaptation to the environment
Answer: C) Sustainable resource use and ecological balance
145. In decision-making, traditional knowledge often emphasizes:
A) Short-term gains B) Individualism C) Community well-being and long-term sustainability
D) Technological innovation
Answer: C) Community well-being and long-term sustainability
146. Which of the following represents a Western knowledge approach to agriculture?
A) Mixed cropping based on lunar cycles B) Use of synthetic fertilizers and mechanized farming
C) Sacred groves as biodiversity hotspots D) Rainwater harvesting using traditional tanks
Answer: B) Use of synthetic fertilizers and mechanized farming
147. Traditional knowledge is often criticized for:
A) Being rooted in experimental data B) Being isolated from local ecology
C) Lacking formal documentation and validation D) Promoting sustainability
Answer: C) Lacking formal documentation and validation
148. Western knowledge systems value:
A) Oral traditions over written data B) Objective reasoning and universal laws
C) Subjective experience D) Intuition over observation
Answer: B) Objective reasoning and universal laws
149. Integrating traditional and Western knowledge systems can lead to:
A) Conflict and inefficiency B) A more inclusive and adaptive problem-solving approach
C) Elimination of traditional practices D) Greater scientific uncertainty
Answer: B) A more inclusive and adaptive problem-solving approach
MCQs on Traditional Knowledge vs. Western Knowledge in Indian Knowledge Systems
150. Traditional knowledge in the Indian context is primarily:
A) Based on experimental and empirical methods only B) Rooted in cultural, spiritual, and experiential wisdom passed
through generations C) Identical to Western scientific knowledge D) Focused only on written records
Answer: B) Rooted in cultural, spiritual, and experiential wisdom passed through generations
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151. Western knowledge systems mainly emphasize:
A) Holistic integration of life and spirituality B) Empiricism, rationality, and scientific method
C) Oral transmission and mythology D) Spiritual rituals as the primary source of knowledge
Answer: B) Empiricism, rationality, and scientific method
152. A key difference between traditional Indian knowledge and Western knowledge is that traditional knowledge:
A) Is always written and documented in scientific journals B) Incorporates spiritual and ethical dimensions alongside practical
knowledge C) Rejects observation and experimentation D) Is exclusively modern technology-based
Answer: B) Incorporates spiritual and ethical dimensions alongside practical knowledge
153. Western knowledge systems typically focus on:
A) Contextual and community-specific knowledge B) Universal principles and laws applicable across contexts
C) Mythology and ritual practices D) Exclusively spiritual teachings
Answer: B) Universal principles and laws applicable across contexts
154. Indian traditional knowledge systems place great emphasis on:
A) Separation of knowledge from daily life B) Integration of knowledge with ethics, spirituality, and social responsibility
C) Disregard for nature and environment D) Industrial and economic growth only
Answer: B) Integration of knowledge with ethics, spirituality, and social responsibility
155. Western knowledge systems originated primarily in:
A) Indigenous tribal communities B) European Enlightenment and scientific revolution
C) Ancient Indian scriptures D) Oral traditions exclusively
Answer: B) European Enlightenment and scientific revolution
156. Traditional Indian knowledge is often:
A) Static and unchanging B) Dynamic, evolving through practice and experience over centuries
C) Rejected by local communities D) Fully compatible with Western industrialization without any conflict
Answer: B) Dynamic, evolving through practice and experience over centuries
157. One critique of Western knowledge systems from the traditional knowledge perspective is:
A) Overemphasis on reductionism and neglect of holistic understanding B) Over-integration of spirituality
C) Excessive focus on community values D) Lack of technological development
Answer: A) Overemphasis on reductionism and neglect of holistic understanding
158. Traditional Indian knowledge systems contribute to:
A) Holistic healthcare systems like Ayurveda B) Only religious ceremonies with no practical applications
C) Exclusive use of modern pharmaceuticals D) Complete rejection of nature-based solutions
Answer: A) Holistic healthcare systems like Ayurveda
159. In terms of knowledge transmission, Western systems rely heavily on:
A) Oral storytelling and rituals B) Written texts, formal education, and scientific publications
C) Community elders only D) Mythological recitations
Answer: B) Written texts, formal education, and scientific publications
160. Traditional Indian knowledge often views the universe as:
A) Mechanistic and fragmented B) An interconnected whole with spiritual dimensions
C) Random and chaotic without order D) Separate from human existence
Answer: B) An interconnected whole with spiritual dimensions
161. Western knowledge systems prioritize:
A) Subjective experience over objective facts B) Objective, repeatable, and measurable evidence
C) Mythological narratives as scientific explanations D) Personal spiritual insights only
Answer: B) Objective, repeatable, and measurable evidence
162. The Indian concept of Dharma in knowledge refers to:
A) Only legal systems B) The ethical and moral duties guiding individual and societal actions
C) Scientific laws of physics D) Economic principles
Answer: B) The ethical and moral duties guiding individual and societal actions
163. Western knowledge has traditionally focused on:
A) Integrating spiritual and material aspects equally B) Separation of science and spirituality
C) Oral transmission of wisdom D) Using rituals for knowledge validation
Answer: B) Separation of science and spirituality
164. An important aspect of traditional Indian knowledge systems is:
A) Ignoring nature and environment B) Emphasizing harmony between humans and nature
C) Complete reliance on technology D) Rejection of any spiritual practice
Answer: B) Emphasizing harmony between humans and nature

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165. Which of the following is a strength of Western knowledge systems?
A) Emphasis on empirical validation and reproducibility B) Focus on oral traditions only
C) Reliance on myths and legends D) Exclusive use of ritual knowledge
Answer: A) Emphasis on empirical validation and reproducibility
166. Traditional Indian knowledge systems have been transmitted mainly through:
A) Peer-reviewed scientific journals B) Gurukula system, oral teachings, and scriptures
C) Internet and digital media only D) Formal universities exclusively
Answer: B) Gurukula system, oral teachings, and scriptures
167. One major challenge in integrating traditional and Western knowledge systems is:
A) Lack of respect for traditional knowledge in mainstream science B) Excessive emphasis on cultural values
C) Over-reliance on rituals D) Lack of technological innovation in Western knowledge
Answer: A) Lack of respect for traditional knowledge in mainstream science
168. Traditional knowledge often considers the role of:
A) Only material phenomena B) Mind, consciousness, and spiritual realities in understanding the world
C) Technology as the only source of truth D) Scientific instruments exclusively
Answer: B) Mind, consciousness, and spiritual realities in understanding the world
169. Western knowledge systems are often credited with:
A) Developing advanced scientific methods and technological innovations B) Ignoring practical applications
C) Rejecting logic and reason D) Preserving oral traditions only
Answer: A) Developing advanced scientific methods and technological innovations

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