Navigating corporate social responsibility in the realms of Indian knowledge system

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) has become a fundamental aspect of current corporate operations, emphasizing the need for businesses to balance economic objectives with ethical and social responsibilities. While CSR frameworks are often grounded in Western ideologies, this paper explores the relevance of ancient Indian philosophical principles to CSR. Drawing on key texts like the Vedas, Upanishads, Bhagavad Gita, and Arthaśāstra, it examines core concepts such as dharma (righteousness), karma (cause and effect), ahimsa (non-violence), seva (service), and sarvalokhitam (welfare of all). These teachings provide a profound foundation for business practices prioritizing societal welfare, environmental sustainability, and ethical governance. The paper argues that by integrating these values into contemporary CSR, businesses can move beyond profit maximization to foster holistic stakeholder engagement, ensuring positive social and environmental impacts. The objective of the research is to integrate ancient Indian values with modern CSR practices, offering insights into how Indian philosophy can enhance contemporary corporate social responsibility. Furthermore, it highlights the potential for Indian philosophies to enrich global CSR practices, particularly in India's growing role in the international arena. Through a comprehensive literature review, this paper presents a framework for aligning CSR with ethical imperatives and sustainable development, offering new perspectives for businesses seeking to navigate the complexities of global corporate responsibility.