The Times of India is set to host a Social Impact Summit on July 11 and 12, 2025, in Mumbai, to recognize and reward outstanding work in the realm of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG). Presented by Malabar Gold & Diamonds, with Ernst & Young as the knowledge partner, the two-day event aims to bring together leaders, experts, and stakeholders to delve into the evolving landscape of social impact and responsible business practices.
CSR has grown significantly since its formal inception in 2014, when the Indian government mandated that companies allocate 2% of their profits towards socially responsible initiatives. Today, businesses are demonstrating increased ownership and investment in impactful projects across various sectors. Simultaneously, ESG, a related domain focusing on environmental stewardship, social responsibility, and corporate governance, has gained traction. ESG emphasizes areas such as renewable energy, sustainability, and inclusivity, including opportunities for differently-abled individuals, workers' welfare, and increased representation of women in leadership roles.
The demand for ESG principles is rising both internally within organizations and externally from stakeholders. There is a growing recognition that companies must actively contribute to the well-being of the communities in which they operate. Sustainability, environmental consciousness, and robust governance are increasingly seen as beneficial to all stakeholders.
The TOI Social Impact Summit will feature panel discussions, fireside chats, and interactive sessions, offering attendees valuable insights and networking opportunities. Speakers from diverse backgrounds will share their experiences and perspectives, fostering a collaborative environment for driving social change. The summit's focus on CSR and ESG reflects the increasing importance of these areas in the Indian business landscape, addressing issues that directly impact the lives of Indians at the grassroots level.
Several other events in 2025 will also focus on CSR and ESG. The India CSR Summit and Exhibition, hosted by NGOBOX, is another major event that includes the "Doing Good for Bharat Awards 2025". The Global CSR & ESG Awards 2025, an initiative by Indian CSR Awards, will feature discussions and reviews on the impact of CSR, sustainability, and ESG mandates. The Greentech CSR India Award 2025 will recognize companies for their contributions to social and environmental responsibility. These events underscore the growing emphasis on CSR and ESG practices in India and worldwide.
Other global events like the Social Innovation Summit, the Impact Investment Summit, and the ESG & CSR Practitioner Summit, also scheduled for 2025, demonstrate the increasing global emphasis on social impact, sustainability, and responsible investment. These gatherings serve as platforms for leaders to exchange ideas, build partnerships, and explore innovative solutions to global challenges. They highlight the importance of ethical leadership, collaboration, and sustainable strategies in fostering long-term economic and social transformation.
The Times of India's Social Impact Summit and other similar events reflect a broader trend towards integrating social and environmental considerations into business strategies. As stakeholders increasingly demand responsible and sustainable practices, CSR and ESG are becoming integral to corporate success and long-term value creation.
