INDIGENOUS KNOWLEDGE SYSTEMS AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

Abstract

Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS) is a body of traditional wisdom, practices and beliefs developed by local peoples over generations through deep interaction with their environment, passed down orally and culturally, offering vital insights for sustainable living, resource management and cultural identity. In simple words, it can be said as cumulative knowledge, practices and beliefs developed by indigenous and local communities through long interaction with their natural, social and cultural environments. In the contemporary context of ecological degradation, climate change and socio economic inequalities, indigenous knowledge have gained significant importance for achieving sustainable development. This chapter explores the conceptual foundations of Indigenous Knowledge Systems and examines their contribution to the environmental, social, economic and cultural dimensions of sustainable development. It argues that integrating indigenous knowledge with modern scientific approaches can lead to more inclusive, strong and context specific development models. The chapter also discusses challenges related to recognition, documentation, intellectual property rights and policy integration and offers recommendations for safeguarding and mainstreaming indigenous knowledge in sustainable development initiatives.