New Delhi, India – The recent introduction of a mandatory course on “reincarnation” in the syllabus at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Mandi has sparked controversy and raised concerns about the direction of higher education in India. The course, part of the institute’s Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) department, has been criticized by academics and scientists for its pseudoscientific content.
The IKS initiative, launched by the Ministry of Education in 2020, aims to promote research on indigenous knowledge systems. However, its implementation has been met with mixed reactions, with some praising its efforts to preserve India’s cultural heritage. Others express concerns about its potential to undermine scientific inquiry.
The controversy surrounding the IIT Mandi course is just one example of the growing backlash against the IKS initiative. Other examples include syllabus reincarnation on “Vedic Architecture” and the use of “biofertilizer from cow dung” in various IIT institutes.
Critics argue that the IKS initiative is promoting a particular political ideology and undermining scientific inquiry. They point out that many of the claims made about indigenous knowledge systems lack practical evidence. Many IKS are often based on religious beliefs rather than scientific facts.
While the IKS initiative has supporters, who believe it is essential for preserving India’s cultural heritage. Growing controversy surrounding its implementation raises important questions about the future of higher education in India. As the country continues to strive for academic excellence. It is crucial to ensure that educational institutions maintain a commitment to scientific inquiry and critical thinking.
