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Swayam

Geospatial Practices in Ancient Indian Knowledge Systems

via Swayam

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Overview

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ABOUT THE COURSE:An innovative addition to the SWAYAM platform, bridging Geography, IKS, and modern geospatial science.It aligns with the push for Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) and NEP 2020’s focus on multidisciplinary education.Addresses a gap in conventional curricula.Appeals to Geography students as well as those in allied disciplines.INTENDED AUDIENCE: The course caters to postgraduate Geography students, researchers in IKS, and GIS practitioners, ensuring a diverse and engaged audience.PREREQUISITES:Undergraduate or Postgraduate Degree in GeographyRecommended Pre-Courses:Introduction to GIS and Remote Sensing: A basic GIS course that covers tools, mapping techniques, and spatial data analysis (e.g., Introduction to GIS, available on platforms like Coursera or SWAYAM).Indian Knowledge Systems and Culture: A foundational course on Indian Knowledge Systems could help participants understand concepts related to ancient texts, cosmology, and cultural geography. A course in Indian History or Philosophywould also be beneficial.INDUSTRY SUPPORT: For the course "Geospatial Practices in Ancient Indian Knowledge Systems," industry recognition could come from companies and organizations involved in the following sectors:Geospatial Technology and GIS Companies: Esri India, Geospatial Media and Communications, Autodesk, Trimble, and other geospatial technology firms may value the integration of traditional knowledge with modern GIS techniques. GeoIQ, MapmyIndia, and SPOT India might appreciate the use of GIS tools in understanding ancient geographical practices and heritage preservation.Heritage Conservation and Cultural Organizations: Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), INTACH (Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage), and other heritage conservation organizations could value the course’s focus on mapping and preserving heritage sites. Cultural organizations involved in documenting and preserving India's ancient history might recognize the importance of blending traditional knowledge with modern geospatial methods.Environmental and Sustainability Corporations: Companies working in environmental sustainability, natural resource management, and ecological conservation may find the course valuable due to its focus on sustainable land use and water management systems. Cement and construction companies using Vastu Shastra for planning could also find value in understanding the geographical principles tied to traditional practices.Academic and Research Institutions: Universities, research bodies, and institutes in fields like Geography, Indian Studies, Environmental Science, and Heritage Management may recognize the interdisciplinary approach of this course.Government Bodies and NGOs: Government departments focusing on urban planning, environmental protection, and cultural heritage preservation may value this course for its practical application to real-world issues.

Syllabus

Week 1:Introduction to Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS)
  • Overview of IKS, including contributions from Vedas, Upanishads, Puranas, and other ancient texts.
  • Concept of Brahmand (cosmos) in Indian cosmology.
  • Geographic knowledge in Indian texts: Sthapatya Veda, Skandapurana, and other ancient texts.
Week 2: Ancient Indian Cartography and Mapping
  • Study of ancient Indian maps and geographical knowledge from texts like Suryasiddhanta and Varahamihira's Brihat Samhita.
  • Exploration of India's traditional methods of mapping, including directions, sacred geography, and use of cardinal points.
  • The role of Jataka tales and Puranas in mapping the geography of India.
Week 3: Geography and Environmental Knowledge in Indian Traditions
  • The role of sacred geography in Indian culture (pilgrimages, temple geography, the concept of Tirtha).
  • Sustainable land use and water management systems: Bamboo architecture, Stepwells (like Rani ki Vav), traditional methods of soil conservation, and ecological balance in agriculture.
Week 4: Astronomy, Cosmology, and Geography
  • Indian astronomy's influence on geography: how celestial movements were used for navigation and timekeeping.
  • Connection of Jyotish Shastra (Indian astrology) with geography and spatial relationships.
Week 5: Geospatial Technology and IKS
  • Applying modern GIS (Geographic Information System) tools to ancient knowledge: how satellite imagery and mapping can help interpret historical geographical knowledge from ancient texts.
  • Use of geospatial data for preservation of heritage sites and environmental conservation, using lessons from Indian traditional knowledge.
Week 6: Examples of ancient understanding of space and the environment.
  • The use of Vastu Shastra and its geographical principles in modern urban planning.
  • Examples of famous Indian geographic sites such as Kailasa Temple, Dholavira, Sanchi Stupa.
Week 7: Interdisciplinary Approaches
  • How Geography and Indian Philosophy intersect: the concept of Dharma and the relationship between land, culture, and society.
  • Integration of the Pancha Mahabhutas (five elements) and its influence on Indian geographical thought.
Week 8: Practical Application and Future Prospects
  • Locating ancient Indian knowledge sites and to create spatial analyses from historical records.
  • Discussion on how these ancient practices can inform modern sustainable practices in geography and environmental studies.

Taught by

Dr. Rashmi

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