Contemporary Dialogue

Abstract

The paper uses the Indian Knowledge System (IKS) as an interpretive and educational lens to understand how traditional values of moderation, mindful consumption, balance, responsibility towards nature and judicious use of resources can guide modern e-commerce behaviour. E-commerce has become an important part of everyday life, especially for consumers who depend on online platforms for convenience, variety, discounts, and quick access. While E-commerce has made shopping easier, it has brought out the ugly underbelly of overconsumption, disoriented financial habits, negative environmental impact, poor health choices, and reduced interaction with local markets, and the need for stronger consumer education. The findings in the paper serve as the base to identify learning gaps in digital consumer behaviour, particularly around financial literacy, environmental awareness, health awareness and responsible decision-making. The study concludes that responsible consumption requires a balance between the benefits of digital convenience, future-readiness skills such as financial and environmental literacy, and the ethical grounding offered by IKS.