CONCEPTUAL ANALYSIS OF HOLISTIC DEVELOPMENT OF STUDENTS IN THE CONTEXT OF IKS AND NCF-SE-2023

This study examines the integration of Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) with the National Curriculum Framework for School Education (NCF SE 2023) as a transformative approach to holistic development. Grounded in indigenous philosophical constructs such as the Pancha Kosha model and pedagogical frameworks like Panchapadiya,the study adopts a conceptual and comparative methodology to analyze the convergence between traditional knowledge systems and contemporary curriculum design. The study identifies key similarities, including the shared focus on holistic development, value based education, and experiential learning, alongside differences in epistemological foundations and implementation strategies. The findings suggest that this integration not only enhances cultural rootedness but also addresses contemporary educational challenges such as sustainability,mental health, and social cohesion.The study highlights important implications for teachers, curriculum designers, and policymakers, emphasising the need for capacity building, contextualised curriculum development, and institutional support. Overall, the integration of IKS and NCF-SE-2023 provides a robust framework for developing learners who are intellectually competent, emotionally balanced, ethically grounded, and socially responsible, thereby aligning education with both national priorities and global educational goals.