Experts’ Corner

Mandatory provisions of CSR under section 135 of the Companies Act 2013 became effective on 1st April 2014. The importance of inclusive growth is widely recognized as an essential part of India’s quest for development. The Companies Act 2013 was enacted to promote the economic development and welfare of the country by making it easier for Indian companies to start and operate their businesses. The Act also aims at improving corporate governance in India. Since the Companies Act came into force, it has become the core corporate responsibility of each company to practice its corporate values through its commitment to grow socially and environmentally while meeting the interests of its stakeholders and intending to make a positive difference in society.

India’s approach to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is unique due to its integration with legislative mandates, making it distinct from others globally. The Companies Act of 2013 marked a significant milestone by making CSR activities mandatory for certain categories of companies. Section 135 of the Act requires companies meeting specific financial thresholds to spend at least 2% of their average net profit of the preceding three years on CSR activities. This legislative approach reflects India’s commitment to aligning corporate activities with national developmental goals. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has emphasised the importance of CSR in Indi a’s development agenda. In one of his recent addresses, he stated, “It is our collective responsibility to ensure that the underprivileged are empowered, and

The highly anticipated workshop on “AC CA Playbook Training,” jointly organized by the UN Global Compact Network India (UN GCNI) and PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI), concluded successfully today at PHD House, New Delhi. The workshop was held in New Delhi on June 14, 2024. It focused on enhancing participants’ understanding of anti-corruption collective action (AC CA) and promoting a culture of integrity in business environments. Professionals from diverse sectors attended the workshop, which featured comprehensive sessions highlighting key aspects of Anti- Corruption Collective Action (AC CA) initiatives. Participants gained insights into the importance of specialized training in combating corruption, detailed steps and tools provided by the AC CA Playbook, and effective methodologies to mitigate corruption challenges. Mr.

Nidhi Bhasin, CEO of Nasscom Foundation, and Manisha Khosla Sinha, Head of CSR, Brand and Communications at India BNP Paribas, spoke with CSR Times about how timely access to the right skills and opportunities can transform the lives of aspiring youth. They discussed how technology enables young individuals to pursue careers and create their own success stories. Nasscom Foundation in collaboration with BNP Paribas skill 300 empowered marginalized women in emerging technologies Q1. Can you please elucidate the program objective and how it has empowered the marginalized youth? NB : The project aimed at empowering 300 marginalized young women through comprehensive training in emerging technologies. This includes 140 hours of instruction on the latest tech courses, plus an extra 60

Gary Bateman Managing Director LAPP India Thokasandra, a village in the heart of Karnataka in the district of Ramnagar, is home to more than 800 residents. Thokasandra is more than a mere location; it encapsulates the emotional resonance of commitment and accountability. From discreet support extended to widowed women to the vibrant makeover undergone by Thokasandra High School, every endeavor is a brushstroke on a canvas of change. Social Impact created at Thokasandra: Transformation of Thokasandra High SchoolI was associated with the Thokasandra Village project, and as per the standard protocol for all projects, an initial visit was undertaken by us to evaluate needs and ensure their validity. Throughout the process, the emphasis was on collaborative efforts to attain goals,

Sri Madhusudhan Sai Founder,Sri Madhusudhan Sai Institute of Medical Sciences and Research In an era of rapid advancements and heightened global interconnectedness, the 21st century unfolds a tapestry of unique challenges and boundless opportunities. Amidst this dynamic panorama, the clarion call for compassion resonates with an ever-increasing urgency, emerging as a pivotal force capable of reshaping the contours of our world. This profound need for compassion is acutely pronounced in sectors fundamental to human progress and well-being: education, healthcare, and corporate leadership, among several others. We must believe in the universal principle that guards and rewards those who offer selflessly, expecting nothing in return. Compassion in the realm of education transforms learning into a journey of empathy and enlightenment. In

Mr. Vaibhav Wankhade Entrepreneur and Philanthropist, MD Renucorp IntroductionCorporate Social Responsibility (CSR) has evolved from a mere buzzword into a crucial aspect of business strategy for many organizations. In recent years, CSR initiatives have surged in popularity, not only due to their alignment with ethical values but also because they have demonstrated their effectiveness in bringing about positive and meaningful change. This article explores how CSR initiatives, extending beyond corporate goodwill, create meaningful impacts on both society and the environment. Defining Corporate Social ResponsibilityCSR involves ethical and strategic approaches that organizations adopt to positively contribute to society and the environment while achieving their business goals. These initiatives span charitable donations, sustainable business practices, ethical labor practices, community engagement, and environmental