The Practice of CSR during COVID-19: A Community Development Approach

Abstract

The study focuses on the specific strategic approaches followed by the corporate in bringing about community development through corporate social responsibility. The paper examines the role of CSR of companies in community development, especially the peripheral areas where the company has been located. The present research attempts a detailed study of 5 companies engaged in active Corporate Social Performance and explores its role in community development through health care practices. It focuses upon the CSR practices of Multinational companies during COVID-19 pandemic. The five companies undertaken in analysis (MCL, NALCO, Tata Steel, SAIL, OMC) are mostly based in Odisha and the impact assessment of the companies are focussing on different villages in Odisha located especially in the periphery of the companies. The data collection is secondary analysis from the reported information of the companies. The objective is to examine the practice of CSR on community development in relation to healthcare. The significance of the study lies in the fact  that it can aid in evolving a deeper understanding of the community - CSR interface. It would help in better need assessments and in knowing community development in relation to the policies/ reports of CSR and in relation to the realities as well. Further, the findings may serve the policy makers at the governmental level as a feedback in the making and re-making of policies.