IICA Hosts National Conference on Leveraging CSR Excellence for Tribal Development
The Indian Institute of Corporate Affairs (IICA), under the Ministry of Corporate Affairs, conducted a two-day National Conference and Exhibition on Leveraging CSR Excellence for Tribal Development in New Delhi on October 6.
New Delhi, October 8: The Indian Institute of Corporate Affairs (IICA), under the Ministry of Corporate Affairs, conducted a two-day National Conference and Exhibition on Leveraging CSR Excellence for Tribal Development in New Delhi on October 6. The initiative, marking India’s 2nd Annual CSR Day, celebrates the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi and promotes the Gandhian principle of trusteeship in Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) with a focus on tribal empowerment.
Union Ministers of State Durgadas Uikey (Tribal Affairs) and Harsh Malhotra (Corporate Affairs) inaugurated the exhibition, accompanied by a delegation of tribal artisans supported by TRIFED, showcasing grassroots entrepreneurship and CSR best practices.
The event was attended by Chanchal Kumar, Secretary, Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (MDoNER); M. Raja Murugan, Managing Director, TRIFED; Gyaneshwar Kumar Singh, DG & CEO, IICA; Shombi Sharp, UN Resident Coordinator in India; and Prof. Garima Dadhich, Head, School of Business Environment, IICA.
“CSR Must Foster Inclusivity and Equitable Growth”
Delivering the keynote address, Chanchal Kumar emphasized that CSR should move beyond large-scale investments to smaller, high-impact interventions with measurable outcomes by 2047. He underscored the need for diversity, inclusion, and equitable resource distribution, stressing that CSR efforts must reach every part of society.
Highlighting the North East Region’s potential for investment and development, Kumar said improved infrastructure and project readiness have positioned it as a model for balanced growth. He also cited the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in transforming rural and tribal livelihoods through healthcare, education, and agriculture. “Education and skill development are critical to reducing inequality,” he said, urging CSR initiatives to prioritise these areas to empower communities and create a skilled, sustainable workforce.
CSR Spending Surpasses 2% Threshold
In his welcome address, Gyaneshwar Kumar Singh noted a significant transformation in India’s CSR landscape. “CSR spending by Indian companies has surpassed the mandated 2%, reflecting a deeper commitment to social welfare,” he said. Singh urged companies to move beyond financial contributions and provide technology, management, and knowledge-sharing support to local communities. He also stressed the need for capacity building among implementing agencies and aligning CSR efforts with the UN 2030 Sustainable Development Goals.
Panels on Livelihoods, Health, and Entrepreneurship
The conference featured three high-impact panel discussions:
- Leadership Dialogue: Leveraging CSR Excellence for Tribal Development, featuring executives from REC, NTPC, IOCL, HCLTech, HelpAge India, and IICA.
- CSR for Sustainable Livelihoods and Tribal Entrepreneurship, highlighting “glocal” best practices from HCL Foundation, Bharti Airtel Foundation, Tata Chemicals, and others.
- CSR for Health and Nutrition in Tribal Areas, featuring experts from UNICEF India, Godrej & Boyce, The Bridgespan Group, and Spark Minda Group.
Exhibition and Participation
Over 300 delegates from government, academia, industry, and civil society attended the event. The accompanying exhibition showcased CSR initiatives in tribal entrepreneurship, education, healthcare, and environmental sustainability, demonstrating India’s growing commitment to inclusive and sustainable development.
Delivering the Vote of Thanks, Dr Garima Dadhich reaffirmed IICA’s commitment to strengthening CSR governance, partnerships, and innovation to uplift tribal communities through knowledge and collaboration.
