Topic: Important aspects of governance, transparency and accountability, e-governance applications, models, successes, limitations, and potential; citizens charters, transparency & accountability and institutional and other measures.
3. Corporate social responsibility (CSR) though may have increased in terms spending but there remain many issues which restrict it from achieving its full potential. Suggest measures to ensure CSR funds are impactful across the country. (250 words)
Difficulty: Moderate
Reference: The Hindu , Insights on India
Why the question:
Ever since the establishment of the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) regime in India under Section 135 of the Companies Act 2013, CSR spending in India has risen from ₹10,065 crore in 2014-15 to ₹24,865 crore in 2020-21. But there is no data to verify whether this increase is commensurate with the increase in profits of Indian and foreign (having a registered arm in India) companies.
Key Demand of the question:
To wrote about the issues with CSR and steps needed to make it more effective.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction:
Begin by defining CSR and its evolution in India.
Body:
First, write about the various aims and objectives behind CSR in India.
In the next part, write about the various issues in CSR – lack of community participation in CSR activities, need to build local capacities, issues of transparency and non-availability of clear CSR guidelines.
Next, write about the various measures that are needed to make CSR more effective.
Conclusion:
Conclude with a way forward.
