The National Education Policy (NEP-2020) emphasizes a holistic,
flexible and multidisciplinary approach in higher education with a focus
on conceptual understanding, critical thinking and skill development.
In alignment with this vision and as per the revised syllabus prescribed
by KBC NMU, Jalgaon, the subject MB-212: IKS in Microbiology has
been designed for S. Y. B. Sc. Microbiology students to provide a strong
foundation in the Ancient Indian History of Microbiology.
Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) in microbiology emphasize
the ancient Indian understanding of microscopic life, evident in texts
like the Vedas, which predate modern microscopy, and its relevance to
contemporary issues such as public health and biodiversity conservation.
Current book focuses traditional knowledge to specific areas, such as the
use of fermented foods for gut health, the application of herbal remedies
with antiseptic properties, and the understanding of disease control from
microbial origins.
This book has been written in a student-friendly manner to meet
the requirements of the revised curriculum. Each unit is structured
systematically with clear explanations, illustrative examples, diagrams
and end-of-unit exercises to reinforce learning outcomes.
The authors express their sincere gratitude to the academic fraternity,
colleagues and institutions for their encouragement and guidance. We
also acknowledge the support of the publisher, M/s Prashant Publications,
Jalgaon, for their cooperation in bringing out this edition in time and in an
elegant format.
While utmost care has been taken in preparing the manuscript, the
authors sincerely regret any errors or omissions that might have occurred.
We wholeheartedly welcome constructive feedback, suggestions and
comments from teachers and students, which will be invaluable in
improving future editions.