CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY IN INDIA: TRENDS, CHALLENGES, AND OPPORTUNITIES

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) has become an integral part of the corporate governance framework in India, especially after the enactment of the Companies Act 2013, which mandates eligible companies to allocate 2% of their average net profits toward CSR activities. This legislative initiative has positioned India as a global pioneer in institutionalizing CSR through statutory provisions. The present study examines the trends, challenges, and opportunities associated with CSR practices in India.

The paper analyzes the evolving nature of CSR from traditional philanthropy to a more strategic and impact-oriented approach aligned with national development goals and global sustainability standards. It highlights key sectors benefiting from CSR investments, including education, healthcare, rural development, environmental sustainability, and women empowerment. The study also identifies emerging trends such as increased corporate spending, enhanced transparency, stakeholder engagement, and alignment with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Despite significant progress, CSR implementation in India faces several challenges, including compliance-driven approaches, lack of proper monitoring and evaluation mechanisms, regional disparities in fund allocation, and limited community participation. These constraints often reduce the long-term effectiveness and sustainability of CSR initiatives.

The paper concludes that CSR in India holds substantial opportunities for promoting inclusive growth, strengthening corporate reputation, and contributing to socio-economic development. With improved governance, strategic planning, and impact assessment, CSR can move beyond legal compliance and become a transformative tool for sustainable national development.

Keywords: Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR); Companies Act 2013; Sustainable Development; CSR Expenditure; Corporate Governance; Impact Assessment; Inclusive Growth.