Contribution to Science and Technology

Published on 26 Oct 2025

Ancient India made significant contributions to science and technology, with advancements in various fields that had a lasting impact on human knowledge. 

These contributions were instrumental in shaping the development of science and technology in the region and influenced neighboring cultures as well. Some notable contributions:

• Mathematics: Also called Ganita by the general name, it includes: Arithmetic (Pattin Ganita/Anka Ganita), Algebra (Bija Ganita), Geometry (Rekha Ganita) ,Astronomy (Khagolshastra),Astrology (Jyotisa)

• Aryabhata in around 499 AD wrote Aryabhatiya in which the concepts of mathematics as well as astronomy

• Brahmagupta (7th century AD) in his book Brahmasputa Siddhanta mentioned Zero as a number

• In the 9th century AD, Mahaviracharya wrote Ganit Sara Sangraha. It is the earliest Indian text entirely dedicated to Mathematics.

• Bhaskara was a 7th century mathematician who wrote Aryabhatiya-bhasya related to Mathematics and astronomy

• Bhaskaracharya book Siddhanta Shiromani

• Astronomy: Accurate Calendar: Ancient Indian astronomers devised precise calendars based on astronomical observations, determining the length of a year. 

• The Surya Siddhanta, an ancient Indian text on astronomy, provided accurate methods for measuring celestial positions and solar and lunar eclipses.

• Medicine: Ayurveda: The ancient Indian medical system of Ayurveda focused on holistic health and herbal remedies. 

• Example: The Charaka Samhita and Sushruta Samhita are important Ayurvedic texts that laid the foundation for medical knowledge in ancient India.

• The Rasachikitsa system dealt with treatment of diseases using mineral medicines. 

• The Unani System of medicine came to India with the book Firdous-al-Hikmah written by Ali-ibn-Rabban

• Metallurgy: Iron Extraction: Indian metallurgists pioneered advanced techniques for extracting and processing iron ore. 

• The iron pillar at the Qutb Minar complex in Delhi, dating back to the 4th century, is a testament to the exceptional metallurgical skills of ancient Indian artisans.

• Textiles and Dyeing: Advanced Textile Manufacturing: India had a thriving textile industry, known for vibrant colors and intricate designs. 

• Example: The fine cotton muslin fabrics from ancient India were prized commodities in international trade.

• Shipbuilding and Navigation: Maritime Trade: Indian seafarers developed sophisticated ships and navigational techniques, facilitating extensive maritime trade with other regions. 

• Example: The mention of maritime trade in ancient texts like the Periplus of the Erythraean Sea demonstrates India's maritime connections with the Roman Empire.

• Surgery and Anatomy: Surgical Advancements: Ancient Indian physicians made significant contributions to surgical techniques. 

• Example: Sushruta Samhita described complex surgical procedures, including plastic surgery, long before they were known in other parts of the world.

• Architecture and Engineering: Temple Architecture: Ancient Indian architects built grand temples using advanced engineering techniques. 

• Example: The Brihadeeswarar Temple in Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, is an architectural marvel and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

• Yoga and Medicine: Yoga Practices: Ancient India developed the practice of yoga, which encompassed physical exercises and therapeutic techniques. 

• Example: The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, an ancient text on yoga philosophy, remains influential in modern yoga practices.

Tags:
History & Culture

Keywords:
Contribution to Science and Technology Ancient India Ganita Arithmetic Pattin Ganita Anka Ganita Algebra Bija Ganita Geometry Rekha Ganita Astronomy Khagolshastra Astrology Jyotisa Aryabhata Aryabhatiya Brahmagupta Brahmasputa Siddhanta Mahaviracharya Ganit Sara Sangraha Bhaskara Aryabhatiya bhasya Siddhanta Shiromani Bhaskaracharya Surya Siddhanta Charaka Samhita Sushruta Samhita Rasachikitsa system Unani System Firdous al Hikmah Ali ibn Rabban Metallurgy Shipbuilding and Navigation Periplus of the Erythraean Sea plastic surgery Brihadeeswarar Temple in Thanjavur Architecture and Engineering Yoga and Medicine The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali

Syllabus:
General Studies Paper 1

Topics:
Indian Heritage and Culture