Cover Story

CSR @78: FUELING INDIA’S JOURNEY TO VIKSIT BHARAT

Birth of a Vision: Philanthropy in Independent India In 1947, when India emerged from colonial rule, the idea of corporate social responsibility was deeply rooted in cultural values, yet unstructured. Mahatma Gandhi’s “trusteeship” model planted the moral seed of businesses serving society. Industrial houses like Tata, Birla, and Bajaj embraced philanthropy—building schools, hospitals, and nurturing art and culture—not as compliance, but conscience. This era was characterized by ad-hoc giving, personal philanthropy, and institution-building by visionaries who believed that profit must be paired with purpose. The lack of formal policy did not deter these pioneers; rather, their social investments became foundations for future government collaborations. The Developmental Push: From Generosity to Strategy India’s planned economy in the 1950s–1970s saw business involvement

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Green States of India — A Panorama of Environmental Action

As India marches toward its ambitious net-zero goals, the role of individual states in driving environmental protection and sustainable waste management has become more critical than ever. From the Himalayan foothills to the coastal plains, Indian states are crafting innovative, localized solutions to tackle pollution, conserve biodiversity, and manage waste more efficiently. This cover story explores the standout initiatives across the country, backed by data, policy frameworks, and community participation. Kerala: Women Power and Waste Warriors Kerala’s Haritha Karma Sena (Green Task Force) is a shining example of decentralized, gender-inclusive waste management. Over 1,000 units of women-led teams collect non-biodegradable waste from 70% of urban households, ensuring scientific disposal and recycling. The initiative has created over 5,000 jobs and significantly

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India’s PSUs : Nation Builders Beyond Business

Public Sector Undertakings, or PSUs, are not just government-owned enterprises—they are pillars of national development.. They are the unsung heroes of India’s development story—nation builders beyond business. For decades, PSUs have played a central role in transforming a newly independent India into a self-reliant and industrially progressive nation. From building steel plants to laying railway lines, from supplying oil and gas to expanding financial inclusion, India’s PSUs have shouldered responsibilities that went far beyond commercial interests. They have helped shape the economic, social, and even emotional fabric of the country. As we celebrate PSU Day on April 10, it is the perfect time to revisit the purpose, contributions, and ongoing relevance of these vital institutions. PSU Day – Celebrating a

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Breaking Barriers: Inspiring Stories of Women Changemakers in CSR

While skyscrapers and stock exchanges often capture the headlines, it is the stories of resilience, compassion, and innovation that truly shape the world we live in. In India, women are breaking barriers and leading transformational change, not just within corporate boardrooms but also at the grassroots level through Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). Their stories echo across continents, proving that the spirit of Indian women knows no bounds. This year, we celebrate these extraordinary changemakers — leaders who have tackled societal challenges, uplifted marginalized communities, and brought sustainable development to the forefront of corporate agendas. Their journeys are not merely stories of success, but testaments to the power of purpose-driven leadership. Dr. Swati Piramal Nivruti Rai Chetna Sinha Geetha Murali Indra

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Corporate social responsibility achievers India

Digital Transformation and CSR in India

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) has evolved significantly in India over the past decade. With the introduction of the Companies Act, 2013, which mandates eligible businesses to spend 2% of their profits on CSR activities, companies have increasingly looked for innovative ways to implement impactful social initiatives. Digital transformation has emerged as a key enabler in this process, allowing businesses to enhance efficiency, transparency, and reach in their CSR efforts. From artificial intelligence (AI) to blockchain, digital solutions are reshaping how CSR is planned, executed, and measured. Technology has revolutionized CSR in several ways, making social impact initiatives more effective and scalable. Some key areas where digital transformation is driving change include:   Data-Driven Decision Making Big data and analytics help companies

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INTEGRATING SOCIAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERNS INTO THE CSR AGENDA IN 2025

In 2025, corporate social responsibility (CSR) has emerged as more than a moral compass; it is now a fundamental pillar of business strategy. With the world facing escalating challenges such as climate change, inequality, and dwindling natural resources, organizations are embracing their role as agents of change. This shift reflects a confluence of societal expectations, regulatory pressures, and the rising importance of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) frameworks alongside the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). From philanthropy-driven origins, CSR has evolved into a sophisticated approach that integrates social and environmental priorities into the very fabric of business operations. Let’s explore how forward-thinking companies are using innovation to address global challenges while creating long-term value, supported by case studies of

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GOVT GIVES CSR A POWERFUL ROLE IN THE INDIAN ECONOMY

Skilling and Job creation get additional support India is redesigning the corporate social responsibility architecture by strengthening its foundation while reposing faith in the industry to become part of the solution for two major problems—an unskilled workforce and growing unemployment. It is a well-thought-out and dynamically designed scheme that empowers those who wish to use their CSR more meaningfully. It has broadened the scope and specified the responsibility of CSR, but has ensured that the soul of the scheme is pure and to help drive the country’s economy up and high.- M.Rajendran In its third consecutive Union Budget, the NDA Government has redefined the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) for corporate, ensuring that they are partners in the job creation and

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INDIA IS STILL THE ‘MOTHER OF DEMOCRACY’

The 2024 elections to the Lok Sabha was a watershed event in the Indian history. Aspirations and anguish of people were refelected in the voting, that went on for more than a month in seven phases. Amidst the elections many questions emerged and they will continue to be discussed, debated and deliberated. But, Democracy emerged victorious. One group of political party has been given the responsibility to govern the country for next five years and another group of alliance is incharge of keeping a check on them. A true example of successful democracy.- M.Rajendran The results of the 2024 election to the 18th Lok Sabha have yet again demonstrated that the people of India value democracy, unlike the report a

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Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives

STATES IN INDIA AND CSR STORIES

CSR in each state has a unique story to tell. The efforts that the state government has taken, the support and contributions made by the stakeholders is an interesting narration. Some have done very well, some have potential, and others are learning. – M. Rajendran Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in India has traditionally been a philanthropic activity; it was an activity that was performed but not deliberated. CSR in India remains within the philanthropic space, but it has moved from institutional building (educational, research, and cultural) to community development through various projects. Enactment of the Companies Act, 2013 by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs, Government of India was one of the world’s largest experiments in introducing CSR as a mandatory

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CSR awards 2025

Environment, Social, and Governance are big catalysts for CSR

A strong Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) strategy is a force multiplier. Organizations must integrate their sustainability efforts into a core CSR and transformation agenda strategy. Like other countries globally, India is experiencing the challenge of large development, and the discourse around environment, social impact, and governance issues is increasing. Since 2013, the narrative in India has shifted to the crucial role corporations can play in bringing about positive change in human development and social inclusion. CSR is no longer seen as corporate social assistance or philanthropy but as essential to a good business strategy, helping reduce investment risks and enhancing business profits by improving transparency and accountability. It is about working together – with government, with civil society, and

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