CSR is growing. But are we putting the money where the need is greatest?. Bihar received around ₹35 per person, while Delhi received nearly ₹1,243. That is not just a funding gap but it is a question of priorities.
The intent of CSR was never simply to spend where it is easiest to execute, measure and report. If CSR follows corporate presence, convenience and visibility, we may keep strengthening places that already have stronger systems. The real opportunity is to take capital where public resources are stretched, communities are underserved and every rupee can create greater additional impact.
Maybe the next evolution of CSR should be “Need-led CSR” rather than “Presence-led CSR.” Better data, district level need mapping and smarter collaboration with government can help companies move beyond compliance towards genuine development impact.
3August 29, 2026 1.3K 13
