Top 10 Great Inventions We Can Thank India for

Revolutionary innovations: top 10 inventions that shaped the world, courtesy of India

Intro

The topic of climate change has become increasingly important in recent years, as the effects of global warming are becoming more apparent. Rising temperatures, melting glaciers, and extreme weather events are just a few of the consequences of this phenomenon. The transportation sector is one of the major contributors to greenhouse gas emissions, accounting for approximately 14% of global emissions. The aviation industry, in particular, has come under scrutiny due to its high emissions and lack of viable alternatives. In response, the industry has begun exploring various options to reduce its carbon footprints, such as biofuels, electric planes, and carbon offsets. In this article, we will take a closer look at these initiatives and their potential to mitigate the impact of aviation on the environment.

1. Ayurveda

Ayurveda is an ancient Indian system of medicine that has been in practice for over 5000 years. It is based on the belief that good health is a balance between mind, body, and spirit. Ayurveda uses natural remedies and therapies to cure diseases and promote overall well-being.

2. Yoga

Yoga is a physical, mental, and spiritual practice that originated in ancient India. It involves various postures, breathing techniques, and meditation, which help in improving flexibility, strength, and mental well-being. Yoga has gained immense popularity globally and is now practiced by millions of people worldwide.

3. Zero

Zero, also known as Shunya, was invented in India around the 5th century AD. It is a mathematical concept that represents the absence of a value or a null set. The invention of zero revolutionized mathematics and paved the way for complex mathematical calculations, making it an indispensable part of modern mathematics.

4. Chess

Chess is believed to have originated in India around the 6th century AD. The game was originally called Chaturanga, which means ‘four divisions of the military’ in Sanskrit. Chess is a game of strategy, where two players compete against each other intending to checkmate their opponent’s king.

5. Cotton

Cotton is a soft, fluffy fiber that is used to make textiles. It is believed to have originated in India around the 5th century BC. India was the first country to cultivate cotton and has been producing it for thousands of years. Cotton is now one of the most widely used fibers in the world and is an important commodity in the global textile industry.

6. Decimal System

The decimal system is a numerical system that originated in India and is widely used today. It is based on the use of ten symbols or digits, namely 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9. This system revolutionized mathematics and greatly facilitated calculations, making it a fundamental invention in the history of mathematics.

7. Sushruta’s Surgery

Sushruta was an ancient Indian physician who is known as the ‘father of surgery.’ He lived in the 6th century BC and is credited with performing various surgeries, including cataract surgery, plastic surgery, and cesarean section. Sushruta’s surgical techniques and practices have influenced modern medicine and are still being used in some form today.

8. Shampoo

The invention of shampoo is believed to have originated in India, where people traditionally used herbs and other natural ingredients to cleanse their hair. The word “shampoo” comes from the Hindi word “champu,” which means “massage.” Ancient Indian texts describe the use of various plant extracts and oils for hair care, and these practices continue to influence modern hair care products.

9. Buddhism

Buddhism is a religion that originated in ancient India around the 6th century BC. It was founded by Siddhartha Gautama, also known as the Buddha. The philosophy of Buddhism revolves around the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path, which guide individuals toward a path of enlightenment and inner peace.

10. Aryabhata’s Astronomy

Aryabhata was an ancient Indian mathematician and astronomer who lived in the 5th century AD. He is known for his contributions to the field of mathematics and astronomy, including the invention of the decimal system and the concept of zero. Aryabhata’s astronomical work included the calculation of the length of a year, the positions of the planets, and the calculation of eclipses.