Traditional Knowledge refers to beliefs and knowledge passed down through generations, often carried out in rural areas. This knowledge encompasses a wide range of practices, from agriculture techniques to medicinal remedies. It plays a crucial role in maintaining cultural identity and promoting sustainability within communities. The post-industrial era has increased dependency on natural resources, with modern technology enabling the production of products like plant-based medicines, cosmetics, health products, and handicrafts. However, traditional knowledge can coexist with modern technology or be lost. The Brundtland report introduced the concept of sustainable development, which aims to meet the needs of the present without compromising future generations' ability to meet their own needs (World Commission on Environment and Development, 1987). India's abundant resources, such as traditional medicines, pre-monsoon rituals, and traditional water harvesting systems, contribute to conservation and sustainability. Traditional knowledge systems are crucial for promoting sustainable living by offering valuable insights and practices in areas like resource management, biodiversity conservation, and climate change adaptation. Integrating traditional knowledge into sustainable development practices ensures the long-term well-being of indigenous communities and protects their wisdom for future generations

Traditional Knowledge, Sustainable Development, Natural Resources, Climate Change, Biodiversity

Traditional knowledge is a vital pillar of sustainable development, offering time-tested insights into resource management, cultural preservation, and climate resilience. However, despite its immense value, traditional knowledge faces multiple challenges, ranging from the declining population of knowledge holders, insufficient economic incentives, poor implementation of benefit-sharing mechanisms, and slow documentation processes. The lack of skilled personnel, limited resources, and language barriers further hinder the proper preservation and transmission of this knowledge. To truly revitalize traditional knowledge, there is a need for stronger policy implementation, inclusive stakeholder engagement, and enhanced support for community-led documentation efforts. Strengthening Access and Benefit Sharing (ABS) mechanisms and improving People’s Biodiversity Registers (PBRs) can help ensure that traditional knowledge holders receive their due recognition and benefits. Ultimately, integrating traditional knowledge with modern sustainable practices will lead us toward a more equitable, resilient, and ecologically harmonious future

Mohit Sharma (2025). Revitalizing Traditional Knowledge through Sustainable Development. International Journal on Emerging Technologies, 16(2): 57–60