Integrating Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) in Communication and Management Practices: A Conceptual Framework

Abstract India's knowledge tradition 'nit nootan chir puratan' which means it is both ancient and modern at once. As Kapoor et al. in the paper, 'Indian Knowledge Systems Nature, Philosophy and Character' highlight that India's knowledge tradition is ancient and uninterrupted, like the flow of the river Ganga, from the Vedas (Upanisads) to Sri Aurobindo, knowledge has been at the centre of all rational and speculative inquiry in India.1 Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) represent a rich repository of philosophical, ethical, and practical wisdom developed over centuries. In recent years, there has been growing interest in integrating traditional knowledge frameworks with modern organizational practices. This paper explores the relevance of Indian Knowledge Systems in enhancing communication and management practices in contemporary organizations. By examining key principles derived from classical Indian texts and traditions, the study highlights how values such as ethical leadership, effective communication, and collective well-being can inform modern management approaches. A conceptual framework is proposed to demonstrate the integration of IKS-based communication principles within managerial decision-making processes. The paper argues that incorporating IKS can contribute to sustainable, human-centric, and value-driven organizational management. Key Words Indian Knowledge Systems, Communication, Management Practices, Ethical Leadership, Organizational Culture