New Delhi, March 4 : Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) has seen remarkable growth in recent years, emerging as a key enabler of sustainable development and responsible corporate governance. In the post-COVID era, CSR has evolved significantly, becoming an essential component in achieving Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a Developed India. This shift and its impact on national growth were the focus of a national conference on ‘CSR and Sustainability: Building a Better Future,’ organized by the Atal Bihari Vajpayee School of Management and Entrepreneurship (ABVSME) at Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU).
In his keynote address, Ravindranath Dubey, General Manager (CSR) at Indian Oil Corporation, highlighted the growing importance of CSR in bridging the gap between corporate success and community development. He pointed out that organizations are moving beyond traditional philanthropy to strategic CSR initiatives, which focus on long-term sustainability, economic empowerment, and environmental stewardship. Dubey emphasized that businesses today play a crucial role in India’s development, with CSR initiatives making significant contributions in sectors like education, healthcare, rural development, and skill-building.
Professor Vijita Singh Agrawal from Indraprastha University stressed the importance of self-sustaining CSR strategies that integrate economic viability with social responsibility. She urged businesses to align their CSR efforts with India’s broader development agenda, ensuring lasting impact. Professor Yasmin Shamsi Rizvi from Jamia Millia Islamia highlighted how CSR has transitioned from a business ethics initiative to an integral part of corporate governance worldwide. Over the past few decades, organizations globally have recognized its role in shaping responsible businesses and fostering sustainable societies. The conference concluded with a strong appeal for greater corporate engagement in nation-building, reinforcing that CSR is more than a compliance mandate—it is a transformative tool for social progress.
