Guest Speak

From “Mandate to Movement” and “Goodwill to Good Business”: CSR in India and the Power of PR

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and Public Relations (PR) have evolved from peripheral functions into strategic tools for business credibility and community engagement. CSR, rooted in Indian traditions like daan and seva, took a modern shape post the 2013 Companies Act, mandating eligible companies to spend at least 2% of their average net profits over the past three years on social development.

This legislation applies to companies with:

• Net worth ≥ ₹500 crore,

• Turnover ≥ ₹1,000 crore, or

• Net profit ≥ ₹5 crore.

India’s CSR expenditure reached ₹29,986.92 crore in 2022–23 and is projected to rise to ₹55,000–60,000 crore by 2030, with major contributions to education, health, rural development, and the environment. CSR now aligns with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) standards. 

India’s CSR expenditure reached ₹29,986.92 crore in 2022–23 and is projected to rise to ₹55,000–60,000 crore by 2030, with major contributions to education, health, rural development, and the environment. CSR now aligns with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) standards.

Employee volunteering and Individual Social Responsibility (ISR) are expanding CSR's reach. By encouraging employees to participate in teaching, mentoring, and environmental efforts, companies foster both community impact and internal pride.

PR also ensures that CSR efforts are seen, understood, and appreciated. It clarifies intentions, protects reputations, and promotes success stories. Social media platforms like LinkedIn and Instagram humanize CSR, enabling real-time storytelling and community interaction.

Companies—from large corporates like Tata and Infosys to MSMEs—are tying brand identity to community upliftment. Strategic PR ensures these efforts inspire trust and competitive differentiation.

CSR is now a vital complement to public policy, encouraging innovation and partnerships with NGOs and governments in areas like women empowerment, sanitation, and digital literacy.

Ultimately, CSR and PR together shape a new corporate ethos: one that integrates profit with purpose. In India’s diverse socio-economic landscape, this synergy is not just desirable—it is essential for inclusive, sustainable growth.