An insight into “Navigating the CSR Landscape: Legal and Practical Perspectives”

The School of Legal Studies at Apeejay Stya University (ASU), Gurugram hosted an insightful guest lecture titled “Navigating the CSR Landscape: Legal and Practical Perspectives.” Dr. Vidushi Puri, Assistant Professor at Amity University Gurugram, led the session, which was attended by faculty and students from both the School of Legal Studies and the School of Management Studies.

Dr. Puri began by discussing the Trusteeship Model as a cornerstone of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), emphasising that corporations have an ethical obligation to contribute positively to society. She highlighted the “People, Planet, Profit” framework, which promotes the idea that sustainable business practices can harmonise social equity, environmental responsibility, and economic success.

A significant part of the lecture was dedicated to understanding the Companies Act 2013 and Schedule VII, which establish the legal framework for CSR in India. Dr. Puri explained how these regulations mandate certain companies to allocate a portion of their profits to CSR activities, effectively institutionalising corporate philanthropy in the country. She also addressed the challenges of CSR implementation, particularly the issue of greenwashing, where companies may exaggerate their environmental initiatives to enhance their public image. To combat this, Dr. Puri stressed the importance of impact reporting, ensuring that CSR efforts are genuine and align with the company’s sustainability goals.

Dr. Puri also explored emerging CSR trends, with a focus on the increasing demand for accountability and transparency in corporate reporting. She emphasised that successful CSR strategies should not only meet legal requirements but also foster a stakeholder-centric approach, thereby enhancing trust and collaboration between corporations and the community.

In her concluding remarks, Dr. Puri underscored the importance of strategic responsibility in CSR initiatives. She pointed out that legal compliance, stakeholder engagement, and transparent reporting are crucial for building accountability in corporate practices. By adhering to these principles, companies can effectively navigate the complexities of CSR and contribute meaningfully to sustainable development.

Overall, the lecture provided a comprehensive overview of CSR’s legal and practical dimensions, offering attendees valuable insights into fostering a responsible corporate ethos. The event was well-received, equipping participants with a deeper understanding of how to balance business success with societal responsibility.

“We believe that the Guest Lecture on Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is vital for law and management students as it bridges legal frameworks with ethical business practices. It enhances their understanding of how companies balance profitability with societal impact, preparing them to navigate complex legal and managerial challenges in responsible corporate governance.”

–Dr. Astha Mehta, Associate Professor, School of Legal Studies, Apeejay Stya University (ASU)