CYBERSECURITY THROUGH THE LENS OF CHANAKYA: STRATEGIC WISDOM FROM THE ARTHASHASTRA FOR MODERN DIGITAL DEFENSE
Kalyani Kulkarni · ShodhKosh Journal of Visual and Performing Arts · 2024
Cybersecurity, similar to statecraft, requires strategic foresight, intelligence gathering, and strong defensive measures. This study examines how Chanakya’s strategic principles from the Artha-shastra can be applied to modern cybersecurity frameworks, illustrating how ancient wisdom can enhance contemporary digital defense strategies. Chanakya focused on governance, espionage, fortification, and crisis management to protect a kingdom—principles that resonate with proactive risk assessment, defense-in-depth strategies, and governance policies in cybersecurity.A crucial element of Chanakya’s strategy was the use of intelligence and counterintelligence, which has modern equivalents in threat intelligence, deception tactics like honeypots, and insider threat management. His focus on alliances and diplomacy aligns with today’s cybersecurity collaborations, such as information sharing among organizations and collective threat mitigation efforts. Moreover, crisis preparedness and pre-emptive actions, central to Chanakya’s governance, correspond with modern cybersecurity strategies like Zero Trust Architecture and proactive defense measures.This paper posits that cybersecurity can gain from Chanakya’s comprehensive approach, integrating layered defense, proactive threat management, and strategic deception to bolster resilience against evolving cyber threats. By drawing connections between ancient state security and digital security, this research emphasizes the enduring relevance of Chanakya’s insights. It also highlights the significance of education and awareness programs, reflecting Chanakya’s belief in knowledge as a vital defense tool.Through this interdisciplinary approach, the study presents a comprehensive cybersecurity framework inspired by Arthashastra, bridging historical strategic thought with modern technological advancements. By leveraging these principles, organizations can strengthen their cybersecurity posture, ensuring a more resilient and adaptive digital defense system in an era of increasingly sophisticated threats.