Nyaya is a school of Indian philosophy that focuses on logic and epistemology as the means to attain truth. In Nyaya, the concept of self and consciousness plays a significant role in understanding the nature of reality and the path to liberation.

According to Nyaya, the self or Atman is a distinct entity that exists independently of the body and mind. It is the eternal, unchanging essence of an individual that remains the same throughout their lifetime and even after death. This concept of self is in contrast to the Buddhist belief of Anatta, which states that there is no permanent, unchanging self.

Nyaya also recognizes the importance of consciousness in understanding the self. Consciousness is seen as the awareness or recognition of one's own self and the external world. It is the fundamental aspect of the self that enables one to experience and perceive reality. Without consciousness, the self would not be able to understand its own existence or the world around it.

The Nyaya school also believes that consciousness is not limited to just human beings but is present in all living beings, including animals and plants. However, the level of consciousness may vary among different beings. For example, humans have a higher level of consciousness compared to animals, as they possess the ability to reason and think abstractly.

In Nyaya, the concept of self and consciousness is closely related to the idea of perception and knowledge. According to Nyaya, perception is the primary means of acquiring knowledge, and consciousness is essential for perception to occur. It is through consciousness that the self becomes aware of the external world and gathers information through the senses.

Nyaya also recognizes the role of inference or logical reasoning in acquiring knowledge. Inference is seen as a process of connecting the known with the unknown, and consciousness is essential in this process. The self must be conscious of its own thoughts and reasoning to arrive at logical conclusions.

In terms of the path to truth, Nyaya emphasizes the importance of critical thinking and logical analysis. It encourages individuals to question and examine their beliefs and perceptions to gain a deeper understanding of reality. The concept of self and consciousness is crucial in this process, as it allows one to introspect and reflect on their own thoughts and experiences.

In conclusion, Nyaya views the concept of self and consciousness as integral to understanding the nature of reality and the path to truth. It recognizes the self as a distinct entity that is eternal and unchanging, and consciousness as the fundamental aspect that enables one to perceive and acquire knowledge. By emphasizing critical thinking and logical analysis, Nyaya offers a systematic approach to understanding the self and the world around us.