Indian Knowledge System: A Blueprint for Sustainable and Inclusive Progress

As part of its academic enrichment initiatives aimed at fostering critical thinking and contextual learning, the School of Commerce, Finance and Accountancy at CHRIST (Deemed to be University), Pune Lavasa Campus, organized an expert lecture on the theme “Indian Knowledge System: A Blueprint for Sustainable and Inclusive Progress” on April 24, 2025. The session began at 11:00 AM and spanned an engaging one hour and thirty minutes.

The resource person for the session was Dr. T V Muralivallabhan, an internationally acclaimed academician, researcher, and speaker known for his contributions in the fields of sustainable development, environmental education, eco-spirituality, Indian culture, and corporate social responsibility. His expertise and dynamic speaking style made him an ideal choice to explore the session’s theme, which focuses on drawing connections between ancient Indian wisdom and modern sustainability frameworks.

The lecture witnessed enthusiastic participation from 85 students and 5 faculty members, all of whom engaged deeply with the ideas presented. Dr. Muralivallabhan delivered a thought-provoking talk that highlighted the urgency of adopting sustainable development practices in the face of escalating environmental and social challenges. He began by setting the global context for sustainability, outlining current issues such as climate change, resource depletion, and social inequalities.

He then introduced the audience to the Indian Knowledge System (IKS) — a comprehensive body of traditional knowledge encompassing philosophy, science, health, governance, ecology, and ethics. Emphasizing its holistic nature, Dr. Muralivallabhan explained how ancient Indian thought encourages balance between material and spiritual life, a concept highly relevant in today’s sustainability discourse.

Key highlights of the session included a detailed exploration of the principles of responsible consumption and conservation, inspired by Indian philosophical traditions. He discussed how traditional Indian texts and practices advocate mindful use of both natural and man-made resources, thereby aligning with the goals of modern sustainability. Through real-world examples and spiritual insights, Dr. Muralivallabhan demonstrated how indigenous knowledge can serve as a moral and practical guide for achieving inclusive progress.

The session was appreciated for its clarity, depth, and the seamless integration of ancient philosophy with contemporary challenges. Participants found the lecture inspiring and intellectually enriching. Dr. Muralivallabhan’s engaging delivery style and his holistic approach provided valuable takeaways for students and faculty alike, reinforcing the relevance of traditional Indian wisdom in today’s world.

The event concluded with an interactive Q&A session, during which students and faculty posed insightful questions, leading to a lively exchange of ideas. The session was formally concluded with a vote of thanks extended by the organizing team. A Certificate of Appreciation was presented to Dr. Muralivallabhan in recognition of his valuable contribution to the academic discourse at CHRIST (Deemed to be University), Pune Lavasa Campus.