This paper proposes a structured framework for integrating Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS) into modern metropolitan planning to enhance resilience, inclusivity, and sustainability, aligning with India’s vision for Viksit Bharat 2047. Traditional urban planning principles rooted in texts such as Vastu Shastra and Arthashastra and Indigenous settlement patterns across various Indian regions offer valuable insights for addressing contemporary urban challenges. Drawing on comparative case studies of Jaipur, Varanasi, and Old Delhi, this study employs a structured mixed-methods approach. Through explicit juxtaposition of IKS principles against NUPF, Smart Cities Mission, and AMRUT, we identify four critical gaps—socio-cultural contextualization, ecological integration, governance adaptability, and technological underuse. The research employs a comparative analysis methodology, juxtaposing IKS principles with contemporary metropolitan frameworks through selected case studies of Jaipur, Varanasi, and Old Delhi. Jaipur’s city planning, rooted in Vastu Shastra principles, exemplifies structured spatial resilience and urban design harmony. Varanasi’s organic growth pattern reflects social and cultural resilience, which is essential for sustainable urban governance. Old Delhi’s governance systems and market networks demonstrate successful community-driven planning models. The proposed framework emphasizes strategic planning, governance reforms, technological integration (AI, GIS, Digital Platforms), and policy recommendations to address current challenges while preserving socio-cultural continuity. We then propose a four-pillar framework—Strategic Planning, Governance Mechanisms, Technological Integration, and Policy Recommendations—to operationalize IKS in metropolitan contexts.