INTEGRATING INDIGENOUS KNOWLEDGE ACROSS SUBJECTS: UNDERSTANDING MULTIDISCIPLINARY LEARNING IN THE LIGHT OF NEP 2020

Abstract

The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 marks a major shift in India's education system, moving from rigid structure to a flexible, holistic, and multidisciplinary model of learning. This paper examines the philosophy, historical roots, and practical implementation of multidisciplinary education as envisioned in NEP 2020. Drawing on ancient Indian learning centers as early models of integrated education, the paper traces how NEP 2020 dissolves rigid boundaries between Science, Commerce, and Arts, allowing students to combine subjects such as Physics with History or Commerce with Arts, etc. Particular attention is given to the integration of physical education, arts and crafts, and vocational training, especially when rooted in indigenous knowledge systems such as traditional games, handloom weaving, folk music, and local craftsmanship as tools for fostering creativity, cultural awareness, and practical competence alongside academic learning