Opinion

India’s industrial landscape is changing. Smokestacks, while once the harbinger of industrial success, today it is smart systems and green sensors that mark industry progress. Industry 4.0, the convergence of digital, physical, and biological technologies, is not just revolutionizing manufacturing; it is sparking an eco-industrial renaissance. Going forward, this change cannot be undermined and will impact all platforms manufacturing, whether it is big, small or medium units. The Great Indian Paradox: Growth versus Green India’s Manufacturing sector has emerged with a GDP contribution of 17% and is rising as a global player, comprehending diversity and complexity. Equally, as a country, it has struggled for decades over a paradigm problem: how to industrialise quickly, yet keep environmental damage to a minimum.

Sustainability challenging GDP Growth “India is set to be the main engine of global economic growth in 2025 and 2026” says World Economic Forum’s (WEF) Chief Economists Outlook report. IMF projects the GDP growth rates for these years to be 6.2% and 6.3% respectively. These numbers pale in comparison to images of Chinese GDP growth of early 2000s. China joined WTO in 2001 and grew at an average growth rate of around 10% till the 2008 Global Financial crisis. World changed significantly since then. Green growth desires have slowed the economies across the globe. In 2010, China reclaimed 10% GDP growth but by then it had also achieved the ‘dirty  nation’ tag given its high carbon emissions. By 2015, China

As the global community grapples with the growing urgency of climate change, countries like India find themselves at a pivotal crossroads. The challenge lies in sustaining economic development while simultaneously taking decisive action to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions. Being the third-largest carbon emitter in absolute terms, yet maintaining one of the lowest per capita emissions globally, India’s role in the global climate narrative is both unique and significant. The concept of carbon emission amendment—referring to the ongoing revision and strengthening of laws, technologies, and policies to manage and reduce emissions—has become central to India’s climate policy evolution. India’s emission profile is largely shaped by its dependence on coal for energy, industrial activities such as steel and cement production, expanding transportation

Maternal and newborn health in Bihar is a critical area of concern that directly influences the future of the state’s human development. While notable progress has been made over recent years—with improvements in institutional deliveries, antenatal care coverage, and a marginal decline in infant mortality—deep-rooted challenges remain. Early marriage continues to be a widespread issue, with over 40 percent of women aged 20–24 married before the legal age of 18 (*Source: National Family Health Survey- 2019-21). This often leads to early pregnancies, increasing the risks of maternal complications, premature birth and low birth weight.   The prevalence of anemia among women has worsened, according to the same data, now affecting over 63 percent of women of reproductive age which too

Sustainability has become critically important in today’s consumption-oriented society, where environmental degradation often results from so-called development. Caring for our natural environment is part of our traditional practices, yet it has been neglected in the name of modernity. Our scriptures guide us to honour plants, trees, rivers, ponds, mountains, the moon, the sun, and the stars. However, these practices now have become more symbolic than a true respect for nature. Despite the erosion of our values over some time, it is intrinsic for women in our society to maintain a close association and bond with nature. Therefore, women are ideally suited to undertake ESG responsibilities in today’s context, particularly at local governance levels. Unfortunately, many women in remote villages still

“यत्र नार्यस्तु पूज्यन्ते, रमन्ते तत्र देवताः।” – मनुस्मृति (Where women are honoured, divinity blossoms; where they are dishonoured, all actions remain unfruitful.) In India, the reverence for women has been deeply ingrained in traditions and cultural heritage. Our society has long worshiped women, nature, and rivers, recognizing their nurturing and life-giving essence. However, despite this historical reverence, women have faced significant socio-economic challenges, particularly in achieving financial independence. While progress has been made, many women, especially in rural areas, still struggle with access to financial services and economic opportunities. Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives play a crucial role in addressing these gaps, empowering women through financial inclusion and sustainable livelihood programs. Financial inclusion is indeed a critical aspect of empowering

Digital technology is rapidly transforming Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), allowing businesses to enhance sustainability, transparency, and ethical governance. With advancements in artificial intelligence (AI), automation, big data, and blockchain, companies can optimize operations while strengthening corporate accountability, social impact, and environmental sustainability. This shift is revolutionizing the way organizations engage with CSR, making it more efficient, measurable, and impactful. One of the key benefits of digital transformation in CSR is improved governance and ethical business practices. Blockchain technology ensures transparency by maintaining immutable records that help track and verify CSR initiatives. AI-powered analytics can detect unethical practices, allowing businesses to mitigate risks and uphold ethical standards. Automated compliance systems ensure companies adhere to legal and regulatory frameworks, reducing corruption and

In an increasingly interconnected world, the intersection of technology and social responsibility is becoming more crucial than ever. At RYTHM Foundation (RF) and QI Group, we have always believed that innovation and purpose go hand in hand. As we strive to transform lives and uplift communities, digital tools, artificial intelligence (AI), and automation have emerged as powerful catalysts driving sustainability, ethical business practices, and social impact efforts. Enhancing Sustainability Through Digital Transformation Sustainability is at the core of RHYTHM Foundation’s mission. By aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), we are committed to creating long-term positive change. Digital tools and automation play a pivotal role in this journey. Through data analytics and AI-driven insights, we can monitor and

“The only constant in life is change,” said Heraclitus, and nowhere is this more evident than in the landscape of corporate social responsibility (CSR). From Charity to philanthropy to strategic CSR; as one navigates the winding hills, the scenery transforms before our very eyes, each turn offering a new vista of possibility and challenge. In the era of rapid technological advancements, digital transformation is the vehicle propelling businesses through this dynamic terrain. With India emerging as one of the fastest-growing digital economies, enterprises are driving slowly and cautiously, yet remain agile enough to negotiate the rapid shifts in the digital landscape. Leveraging technology, artificial intelligence (AI), and automation, they are not only enhancing sustainability efforts but also promoting ethical business