Reframing Human Resource Management through Ancient Indian Philosophy: A Framework for Ethical, Sustainable, and Human-Centric Organizations

Contemporary Human Resource Management (HRM) faces critical vulnerabilities, including widespread employeedisengagement, chronic workplace distress, ethical compromised decisions, and a persistent tension between short-termorganizational performance and long-term human well-being. This paper conceptualizes how foundational principles of IndianKnowledge Systems (IKS) can enrich contemporary management paradigms by supplying a robust philosophical foundation forethical, sustainable, and human-centric governance. Five core philosophical constructs—Dharma (ethical responsibility), Karma (consequential and accountable action), Samatva (psychological equanimity), Lokasangraha (collective welfare), and Purusharthas(holistic human development)—are analyzed in direct alignment with modern HR practices. An integrative framework is developedto connect these principles with ethical leadership, responsible performance systems, employee development, and psychologicalflourishing. Eight testable propositions are established to guide empirical validation. The paper demonstrates how IKScomplements existing management theories by harmonizing operational performance with organizational integrity and humandignity without promoting religious dogma or discarding evidence-based practices.