Agricultural Principles in Kṛṣiparāśara

Abstract

The Kṛṣiparāśara, an ancient Sanskrit text attributed to Sage Parāśara, offers profound insights into agricultural science and practices that align seamlessly with the ethos of sustainability and environmental harmony. This paper explores the agricultural principles detailed in the Kṛṣiparāśara, emphasizing its relevance to the Indian Knowledge System and its potential to address contemporary agricultural challenges.

The Kṛṣiparāśara serves as a comprehensive treatise encompassing various aspects of agriculture, including soil preparation, crop selection, irrigation techniques, seasonal planning, and pest management. The text highlights an integrated approach to farming, blending scientific observations with spiritual and ecological perspectives. Notable principles such as land classification, astrological influences on farming, and natural methods of enhancing soil fertility underscore the ancient wisdom's relevance in mitigating modern issues like soil degradation, climate unpredictability, and the overuse of chemical fertilizers.

This research investigates how the text's principles can contribute to sustainable farming practices and organic agriculture, resonating with global calls for eco-friendly farming. By analysing key verses and contextualizing them within modern agronomy, the study bridges the gap between traditional agricultural knowledge and contemporary scientific practices. Additionally, the paper discusses how Kṛṣiparāśara reflects the socio-cultural significance of agriculture in ancient India, fostering a holistic understanding of the relationship between humans and nature.

In revitalizing the agricultural heritage embedded in the Kṛṣiparāśara, this research underscores the importance of integrating indigenous knowledge systems into academic discourse and policymaking. The findings aim to inspire the adaptation of ancient practices for modern agricultural innovation, ensuring food security, ecological balance, and a sustainable future. This exploration not only reaffirms the timelessness of Vedic wisdom but also highlights its transformative potential for India's agrarian landscape in the 21st century.