Human civilization is undergoing unprecedented transformations driven by climate change, technological acceleration, rising chronic diseases and socio-economic inequalities. Modern healthcare remains largely treatment-centric, while educational systems increasingly prioritise digital skill formation over holistic development. In this context, Ayurveda represents an interdisciplinary knowledge system offering a balance between health, environment, lifestyle, ethics and sustainable consumption. Far from being an ancient relic, Ayurveda stands today as a catalyst for innovation—linking health sciences, agriculture, biotechnology, wellness tourism, nutraceuticals, psychology and environmental studies.

Global platforms such as UNESCO, WHO and UNEP advocate for indigenous knowledge systems to promote well-being, ecological responsibility and cultural resilience. India’s National Education Policy (NEP-2020), National Health Mission and AYUSH initiatives recognise Ayurveda as a strategic lever to address lifestyle disorders and economic growth. However, its academic integration and industrial scalability remain incomplete.

This study investigates how Ayurveda can shape future-ready educational models, sustainable development pathways and inclusive innovation ecosystems.

2. PROBLEM STATEMENT

Despite global recognition, Ayurveda remains marginalised in policy, research and mainstream higher education. Barriers include:

TABLE 1: MAJOR CHALLENGES IN THE CURRENT SYSTEM & IMPACT

The challenge lies in re-positioning Ayurveda as a scientific, innovative and sustainability-oriented discipline rather than a purely medical domain.

3. AIM AND OBJECTIVES

3.1 AIM

To investigate the academic, socio-economic and sustainability relevance of Ayurveda in shaping multidisciplinary education, innovation and future development.

3.2 OBJECTIVES

1. To analyse the perception of stakeholders toward interdisciplinary applications of Ayurveda.

2. To evaluate the relationship between Ayurveda-based educational exposure and sustainability orientation.

3. To formulate an evidence-based model integrating Ayurveda into education, industry and policy.

4. To identify barriers, opportunities and strategies for global expansion of the Ayurveda ecosystem.

4. LITERATURE REVIEW

The academic discourse between 2010 and 2024 reflects a growing recognition of Ayurveda as a valuable contributor to integrative health, education, and sustainability. Patwardhan (2018) highlighted the global therapeutic and commercial potential of Ayurveda, emphasizing its relevance for integrative medicine and preventive healthcare models. The WHO Global Traditional Medicine Strategy (2014–2023) advocated the systematic inclusion of traditional medicine systems into national health policies, emphasizing evidence-based integration, quality assurance, and sustainability.

Raghavan and Singh (2020) demonstrated that Ayurveda-based lifestyle interventions significantly contribute to reducing the burden of non-communicable diseases by promoting dietary regulation, stress management, and personalized health practices. UNESCO (2021) further emphasized that indigenous knowledge systems play a critical role in fostering cultural continuity, ecological ethics, and sustainable futures, particularly within education and community development frameworks.

Recent studies have expanded the discussion beyond healthcare. Kapoor et al. (2023) reported high entrepreneurial viability of Ayurveda-based nutraceuticals, wellness tourism, and herbal industries, linking traditional knowledge to innovation and start-up ecosystems. Similarly, Aithal and Aithal (2020) proposed holistic education models that integrate traditional knowledge systems with modern curricula to promote sustainable development competencies. Singh (2023, 2024) extended this perspective by demonstrating how Ayurvedic and yogic principles can inform regenerative sustainability, AI-enabled preventive healthcare, and bioeconomy-oriented development models.

Despite these advancements, existing literature reveals critical gaps, particularly the lack of empirical studies connecting Ayurveda with education-driven innovation and sustainability behavior. Moreover, comprehensive policy frameworks integrating wellness, environment, education, and economy remain underdeveloped, underscoring the need for multidisciplinary empirical research.

Gaps identified:

• Limited empirical studies linking Ayurveda to education innovation and sustainability.

• Lack of multidisciplinary policy frameworks integrating wellness, environment and economy.

5. RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

5.1 Research Design

The study adopted a mixed-method research design, combining both quantitative and qualitative approaches to obtain a comprehensive understanding of the multidisciplinary relevance of Ayurveda across education, innovation, sustainability and policy domains. The quantitative component focused on analysing stakeholder perceptions and behavioural outcomes, while the qualitative component explored experiential insights, institutional practices and policy expectations.

5.2 Study Population and Sampling

The target population included: –

1. Students and academic scholars

2. Healthcare practitioners

3. AYUSH professionals

4. Entrepreneurs and industry stakeholders

5. Policymakers and administrative personnel

A total of 185 respondents participated in the study. Stratified random sampling was used to ensure proportional representation of diverse respondent groups.

TABLE 2: RESPONDENT DEMOGRAPHICS

5.3 Data Collection Tools

Data were collected through multiple complementary tools to enhance reliability and validity:

1. Structured questionnaire administered through Google Forms to gather quantitative data.

2. Semi-structured interviews with selected experts to obtain qualitative insights.

3. Secondary data review from institutional reports, published articles and government policy documents.

5.4 Questionnaire Design

The questionnaire consisted of 28 items, divided into four sections:

• Demographic profile

• Awareness and perception toward Ayurveda

• Attitude toward integration of Ayurveda in multidisciplinary education

• Opinion on innovation prospects and sustainability impact

Most items followed a five-point Likert scale (1 = strongly disagree to 5 = strongly agree).

5.5 Reliability and Validity

• A pilot study (n = 20) was conducted to assess instrument reliability.

• Cronbach’s alpha coefficient for scale items was α = 0.87, indicating high internal consistency.

• Content validation was performed by three subject experts from the fields of Ayurveda, education and public health.

5.6 Data Analysis Procedures

Quantitative data were analysed using SPSS Version 26.0.

Statistical procedures included:

• Descriptive Statistics (frequency, mean, percentage)

• Correlation Analysis to determine relationships among variables

• ANOVA to examine group differences in perception and sustainability orientation

• Chi-square Test to assess the association between categorical variables

Qualitative data from expert interviews were analysed using thematic analysis, involving open coding, theme identification and pattern interpretation.

5.7 Ethical Considerations

• Participation was voluntary, with full right to withdraw at any time.

• Informed consent was obtained digitally before data collection.

• Data confidentiality and anonymity were strictly maintained.

• No personal, clinical or medical interventions were conducted.

5.8 Limitations of the Methodology

• Sample size, though diverse, may not represent the entire global Ayurveda ecosystem.

• Online surveys may introduce self-reporting bias.

• Time limitation restricted the number of qualitative interviews.

5.9 Summary of Research Methodology

The methodology integrates rigorous sampling, validated tools, multi-layered data collection and appropriate statistical testing to ensure credible and generalisable results. The mixed-method approach strengthens the findings by linking measurable behavioural outcomes with contextual expert insights.

6. HYPOTHESIS OF THE STUDY

To examine the relationship between Ayurveda-based educational exposure, sustainability orientation, innovation readiness and behavioural transformation, the following hypotheses were formulated:

6.1 Null Hypothesis (H₀)

There is no significant relationship between exposure to Ayurveda-based knowledge and sustainability orientation, innovation readiness or positive behavioural transformation among respondents.

6.2 Alternative Hypothesis (H₁)

There is a significant positive relationship between exposure to Ayurveda-based knowledge and sustainability orientation, innovation readiness and positive behavioural transformation among respondents.

6.3 Sub-Hypothesis

To support deeper statistical evaluation, the following sub-hypotheses were also generated:

TABLE 3: SUB-HYPOTHESIS

6.4 Direction of Hypothesis

The study adopts a directional hypothesis, predicting that exposure to Ayurveda will have a positive impact on sustainability-oriented thinking, innovative behaviour and educational acceptance.

6.5 Basis of Hypothesis Formulation

The hypotheses were framed based on:

• Rising global interest in preventive and sustainable healthcare.

• Increasing recognition of Ayurveda in NEP-2020, SDGs and WHO Traditional Medicine Strategy.

• Early evidence linking traditional lifestyle practices with behavioural upliftment and sustainable choices.

6.6 Expected Outcome from Hypothesis Testing

The hypothesis testing was expected to highlight whether:

• Ayurveda should be integrated into modern education and policy frameworks.

• Ayurveda influences innovation and wellness-based economic growth.

• Ayurveda contributes to sustainability maturity and future-ready career development.

7. DATA ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION

This section presents the outcomes of statistical analysis conducted on the responses of 185 participants. Both descriptive and inferential statistics were used to evaluate stakeholder perceptions toward the integration of Ayurveda into multidisciplinary education, innovation systems and sustainability frameworks.

7.1 Descriptive Statistics

Descriptive statistics were used to summarise overall perception and awareness levels regarding Ayurved

TABLE 4: DESCRIPTIVE STATISTICS

Interpretation:
Respondents demonstrated strong awareness of Ayurveda and high support for its integration into education and sustainability frameworks.

7.2 Stakeholder Agreement Level

7.2.1 Summarises the percentage of respondents who agreed or strongly agreed with key statements

TABLE 5:  SUMMARISES THE PERCENTAGE OF RESPONDENTS WHO AGREED OR STRONGLY AGREED WITH KEY STATEMENTS

Interpretation:
Opinions across respondents consistently show strong acceptance of Ayurveda as a future-oriented knowledge and innovation model.

7.2.2. Conceptual Framework — Ayurveda–Education–Innovation Nexus (AEIN Model)

Figure 1: Conceptual Framework — Ayurveda–Education–Innovation Nexus (AEIN Model)

7.2.2 Framework Interpretation

TABLE 6: FRAMEWORK INTERPRETATION

7.2.3 Model Dynamics

TABLE 7: MODEL DYNAMICS

Figure 2: Model Dynamics

7.3 ANOVA Test Results

ANOVA was conducted to examine differences in sustainability orientation among respondent groups with varying levels of exposure to Ayurveda.

TABLE 8: ANOVA TEST RESULTS

*Significance at p < 0.05

Interpretation:
Since p < 0.05, the null hypothesis is rejected. Ayurveda exposure significantly influences sustainability-based thinking and behaviour.

7.4 Chi-Square Test Results

The Chi-square test assessed the association between Ayurveda perception and willingness to adopt it in academic curriculum.

TABLE 9: CHI-SQUARE TEST RESULTS

Interpretation:
A significant relationship exists between stakeholders’ perception of Ayurveda and their readiness to include it in multidisciplinary curricula.

7.5 Correlation Analysis Correlation coefficient (r) was used to determine the strength of relationship between Ayurveda exposure and sustainability orientation.

TABLE 10: CORRELATION ANALYSIS

Interpretation:
Higher exposure to Ayurveda corresponds to stronger sustainability-oriented thinking and lifestyle behaviour.

7.6 Qualitative Interpretation

Thematic analysis of expert interviews highlighted recurring themes:

TABLE 11: QUALITATIVE INTERPRETATION

Interpretation:
Experts believe Ayurveda is not only a healthcare approach but also a knowledge system capable of driving sustainability and future-ready innovation ecosystems.

7.7 Summary of Findings

Based on the analysis:

• Ayurveda exposure significantly shapes sustainable lifestyle perspectives

• There is high support for integrating Ayurveda into university programmes

• Stakeholders recognise Ayurveda’s potential to generate innovation and employment

• The evidence validates the Alternative Hypothesis (H₁)

8. RESULTS

The results of the study confirmed a strong academic, social and entrepreneurial demand for the mainstreaming of Ayurveda in multidisciplinary educational and innovation ecosystems.

8.1 Key Quantitative Results

TABLE 12:  KEY QUANTITATIVE RESULTS

8.2 Behavioural and Academic Outcomes

•  Participants exposed to Ayurveda demonstrated healthier lifestyle patterns

•  Majority supported including Ayurveda in interdisciplinary education

• Respondents recognised Ayurveda’s relevance for SDGs and global wellness

8.3 Innovation and Employability Outcomes

• 76.2% agreed that Ayurveda-based sectors can generate employment

• 69.4% reported interest in nutraceuticals, wellness tourism and herbal start-ups

• High support for integrating skill-based Ayurveda courses in higher education
  

9. OUTCOMES & FUTURE SCOPE

9.1 Key Outcomes

TABLE 13: OUTCOME OF STUDY

9.2 Future Scope

• Curriculum development integrating Ayurveda with medicine, psychology, ecology and food science
• Establishment of Ayurveda Research & Innovation Parks in universities
• Collaboration between universities, AYUSH sector, MSMEs and start-ups
• Expansion of Ayurveda-based digital health and personalised wellness platforms
• International partnerships to standardise Ayurveda products and therapies

10. CHALLENGES AND POLICY RECOMMENDATIONS

10.1 Key Challenges

TABLE 14: KEY CHALLENGES

10.2 Policy and Strategic Recommendations

TABLE 15 : POLICY AND STRATEGIC RECOMMENDATIONS

11. DISCUSSION

The findings position Ayurveda as a scientific and future-oriented knowledge system, bridging health, education, sustainability and economic development. Participants agreed that the core Ayurvedic principles i.e. holistic lifestyle, preventive care, environmental responsibility and personalised wellness that directly align with current global priorities such as:

• SDG-3 (Good Health and Well-being)

• SDG-4 (Quality Education)

• SDG-8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth)

• SDG-12 (Responsible Consumption and Production)

• SDG-13 (Climate Action)

The strong statistical relationship between Ayurveda exposure and sustainable behaviour indicates that Ayurvedic education cultivates ecological sensitivity, health-conscious decision-making and responsible consumption, supporting national and international sustainability agendas.

The study also confirms Ayurveda’s potential to fuel innovation and entrepreneurship, especially in the rapidly expanding wellness economy. Participants identified opportunities in herbal agriculture, nutraceuticals, cosmetics, wellness hospitality, yoga-Ayurveda therapy, and digital preventive health technologies.

However, the full potential of Ayurveda is currently hindered by limited policy integration, irregular global standardisation requirements, and insufficient funding for interdisciplinary R&D. Therefore, systemic restructuring is needed to embed Ayurveda within both the academic and industrial value chain. Industrially, India can lead the $1.2 trillion global wellness market by strengthening Ayurveda nutraceuticals, herbal processing, eco-tourism and indigenous agriculture. Policymakers must therefore design incentives and research grants to accelerate innovation.

12. CONCLUSION

Ayurveda is not only a traditional medical practice but a multidisciplinary knowledge architecture capable of transforming education, society and global well-being. The results demonstrate:

• High acceptance of Ayurveda as a scientific and sustainable health system

• Significant impact of Ayurveda exposure on positive lifestyle and sustainability behaviour

• Strong support for integrating Ayurveda into higher education and entrepreneurship ecosystems

• Clear potential for economic growth through Ayurveda-based innovation and global market expansion

Therefore, Ayurveda should be positioned as a strategic pillar for future education, public health policy, innovation-driven economy and sustainable human development.

13. AUTHOR DECLARATION

The author certifies that the present manuscript is an original and independent academic contribution. It has not been submitted to, nor is it under consideration by, any other journal or conference, and has not been published previously in any form.

I. Ethical Approval

This study did not involve experiments on humans or animals. Since the research is based on conceptual, analytical, and secondary data sources, no ethical clearance was required.

II. Consent for Publication

The manuscript does not contain any personal identifiers, interviews, or participant-related data. Hence, consent for publication is not applicable.

III. Conflict of Interest

The author confirms that there are no conflicts of interest—financial, institutional, ideological, or otherwise—that could have influenced the research process, interpretation of results, or conclusions presented in the manuscript.

IV. Funding Statement

This research was carried out without any external funding, sponsorship, institutional support, or financial grant. The study reflects independent scholarly effort.

V. Acknowledgement

The author sincerely acknowledges the support of academic platforms, open-access libraries, digital repositories, and subject-matter experts whose knowledge resources contributed to the refinement of the conceptual understanding and analytical depth of this research.