We at Vakilsearch help you explore the crucial role of the Indian government in promoting ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) practices and policies. It highlights the need for a sustainable approach to development and the importance of ESG considerations in corporate decision-making.
Environmental, social, and governance (ESG) considerations have gained significant attention in recent years as investors and stakeholders increasingly recognize the importance of sustainability and responsible corporate behavior.
ESG practices and policies are crucial for businesses to mitigate risks, improve their reputation, and attract investment. However, the role of the government in promoting ESG Practices and policies is equally important. The government plays a vital role in setting the policy framework, creating incentives, and enforcing regulations that promote sustainable development.
India is one of the world’s fastest-growing economies and is expected to play a significant role in shaping the global economy’s future.
However, India faces various challenges in achieving sustainable development, including environmental degradation, social inequality, and poor governance. Therefore, it is essential for the Indian government to promote ESG practices and policies to address these challenges and achieve sustainable development.
Environmental Considerations
India is facing various environmental challenges, including air pollution, water scarcity, deforestation, and climate change. Therefore, the Indian government has launched several initiatives to promote environmental sustainability.
National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC)
The National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC) is a comprehensive framework for addressing climate change in India. The plan includes eight missions, such as the National Solar Mission, National Mission for Enhanced Energy Efficiency, and National Mission on Sustainable Habitat, aimed at promoting renewable energy, energy efficiency, and sustainable urban development.
The Indian government has set ambitious targets for renewable energy, including achieving 450 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030. To achieve this target, the government has launched various initiatives, such as the Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan (KUSUM) scheme, aimed at promoting solar power in agriculture.
Additionally, the government has launched the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) to address air pollution in India. The NCAP aims to reduce particulate matter (PM) pollution by 20-30% in 102 cities by 2024.
Corporate Considerations
The Indian government has also taken various initiatives to promote responsible corporate behaviour through ESG considerations.
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)
The Companies Act, of 2013, introduced mandatory CSR spending for companies meeting specific criteria, such as having a net worth of ₹ 500 crore or more, turnover of ₹ 1000 crore or more, or a net profit of ₹ 5 crore or more. Companies meeting these criteria are required to spend at least 2% of their average net profits of the preceding three financial years on CSR activities.
The CSR mandate has encouraged companies to invest in social and environmental initiatives, such as education, healthcare, sanitation, and environmental sustainability.
SEBI Regulations
The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has also introduced various regulations to promote ESG considerations in corporate decision-making. The SEBI (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015, require listed companies to disclose their ESG initiatives in their annual reports.
Additionally, SEBI has introduced guidelines for mutual funds to consider ESG factors while investing.
Apart from the CSR mandate and SEBI regulations, the Indian government has also introduced the ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) fund to promote investment in sustainable initiatives. The ESG fund, launched by the National Stock Exchange (NSE) in collaboration with the Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI), provides a platform for companies to raise funds for their ESG projects.
Additionally, the Indian government has set up the National CSR Data Portal to track and monitor CSR spending by companies. The portal provides real-time data on CSR spending by companies and allows stakeholders to monitor the impact of CSR initiatives on communities and the environment. This promotes transparency and accountability in CSR spending and helps to ensure that companies are fulfilling their CSR obligations.
Through these initiatives, the Indian government is promoting responsible corporate behaviour and encouraging businesses to invest in sustainable initiatives. By integrating ESG considerations into corporate decision-making, companies can mitigate risks, improve their reputation, and contribute to sustainable development.
Conclusion
The Indian government has taken various initiatives to promote ESG practices and policies to achieve sustainable development. However, there is a need for collaborative efforts between the government, businesses, and civil society to achieve sustainable development in India.
The government needs to create a conducive policy environment that promotes ESG considerations and incentivises businesses to adopt sustainable practices.
Businesses, on the other hand, need to integrate ESG considerations into their decision-making processes and invest in social and environmental initiatives. Civil society can play a crucial role in holding businesses and the government accountable for their ESG commitments and advocating for sustainable development.
You can achieve sustainable development in India and contribute to the global effort towards a sustainable future with all these steps. Now, for any further information, contact our experts at Vakilsearch
