Indigenous Knowledge Systems and Sustainable Commerce: An Empirical Study on Cooperative Enterprises in Madurai District

Abstract

The increasing emphasis on sustainable development has encouraged researchers to explore alternative economic models that combine traditional knowledge with modern business practices. Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS) represent the knowledge, skills, values, and practices developed by communities through longterm interaction with their environment. These systems promote sustainability, community welfare, and  responsible resource utilization. Cooperative enterprises, which are based on collective ownership  and democratic management, reflect many  principles found in  ndigenous knowledge systems. The present study  examines the relationship between  awareness of Indigenous Knowledge Systems and preference towards cooperative  enterprises in Madurai District. Primary data were collected from 100 respondents through a structured questionnaire. Percentage analysis and  Chi-Square tests were  used for data analysis. The findings reveal that respondents  with greater awareness of indigenous knowledge show a stronger preference for cooperative enterprises. The study concludes that integrating indigenous knowledge with  cooperative business models can contribute significantly to sustainable commerce and inclusive economic development.