Ethical AI For India: A Dharma–Nyaya–Karma Framework From The Indian Knowledge System

Abstract The global expansion of Artificial Intelligence into critical domains necessitates ethical frameworks that transcend Western-centric models. In culturally diverse nations like India, context-aware approaches are urgently needed. This study constructs a novel ethical framework for AI governance by integrating principles from the Indian Knowledge System (IKS). We employed interdisciplinary conceptual analysis, examining primary Sanskrit texts, the Mahabharata’s ethical narratives, and contemporary AI ethics literature through a decolonial lens. The Dharma–Nyaya–Karma triad offers a comprehensive structure for algorithmic design, emphasizing contextual integrity, procedural fairness, and causal accountability. Sanskrit’s computational logic provides a formal basis for implementation. Embedding IKS principles addresses cultural gaps in current AI ethics, promoting more equitable, transparent, and socially responsible intelligent systems. Keywords: AI Ethics, Indian Knowledge System, Sanskrit Logic, Dharma–Nyaya–Karma, Decolonial AI, Culturally Sensitive AI, Ethical Governance