The Consultation Workshop on ‘Integrating Indian Psychology: Review and Way Forward

October 26th to 28th, 2023,

The Consultation Workshop on ‘Integrating Indian Psychology: Review and Way Forward,’ held from October 26th to 28th, 2023, at Ritambhara Retreat Centre, Bengaluru, marked a significant collaborative effort by CIKS, Brhat, and IKS Division, Ministry of Education, Government of India. This summary encapsulates the workshop’s key insights and proposed actions for advancing Indian Psychology (IP).  Day 1: Review of the Existing Landscape The initial day critically examined the crisis of meaning in contemporary psychological discourse, emphasizing the disconnect between knowledge and well-being. It highlighted the need for a paradigm shift in educational approaches and the urgent incorporation of Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) to address the fragmentation in understanding the self and generational gaps.

• Day 2: Visualisation of Puruṣārtha Śāstra
  The second day focused on a collective visualization of Puruṣārtha Śāstra, proposing a paradigm shift towards a holistic vision of psychology. This redefined perspective integrates insights from Indic wisdom into educational and therapeutic paradigms, emphasizing the guru-śiṣya relationship, institutional transformation, and interdisciplinary learning nexus.
• Day 3: Way Forward
  The concluding day outlined concrete steps for immediate action, including curriculum building, faculty development, digital presence enhancement, and fostering interdisciplinary research. Experts committed to collaboratively shaping a foundational course in Puruṣārtha Śāstra, promoting digital learning experiences, and initiating refresher courses and Faculty Development Programs (FDPs) to disseminate Indian Psychology’s principles widely.                       Collective Commitment and Roadmap:
  The experts collectively committed to these initiatives, providing a pragmatic roadmap for enriching education, research, and practice in Indian Psychology. The proposed actions aim to bridge the gap between traditional wisdom and contemporary needs, fostering an integrated, culturally rooted, and innovative approach to psychology. The Consultation Workshop has set the stage for transformative changes, positioning Indian Psychology as a dynamic field that respects diversity while staying rooted in cultural values. The outlined roadmap reflects a commitment to advancing holistic well-being, aligning individual pursuits with collective welfare, and nurturing a harmonious coexistence within society.