Harmony in Practice: A Case Study Approach in Exploring the Intersection of Corporate Social Responsibility and Environmental Stewardship

Abstract

“Corporate Social Responsibility is a management concept whereby companies integrate social and environmental concerns in their business operations and interactions with their stakeholders.” The Companies Act, 2013, mandated companies meeting specific criteria to allocate a percentage of their profits towards socially responsible initiatives, reflecting a paradigm shift in acknowledging the role of businesses in contributing to social and environmental objectives. Key CSR activities in India focus on education, healthcare, and environmental sustainability, with corporations aligning with national priorities such as the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan. The article highlights successful case studies exemplifying the integration of CSR with environmental initiatives, including Tata Group's sustainable development initiatives, Infosys' green IT practices, and ITC Limited's Triple Bottom Line Approach. Furthermore, the challenges faced by companies in integrating CSR and environmental sustainability in India are elucidated, ranging from regulatory complexities to resource constraints and the need for continuous innovation. The article provides a comprehensive overview of the evolving landscape of corporate social responsibility and environmental stewardship in India, highlighting successful case studies, challenges faced, and the pivotal role of regulatory frameworks in shaping corporate behavior towards environmentally responsible practices.