Corporate Social Responsibility in India: From Voluntary Philanthropy to a Statutory Mandate under Section 135 of the Companies Act, 2013

Section 135 of the Companies Act, 2013 has established a statutory framework that has accompanied a substantial rise in CSR expenditure in India. The figures presented in this study show that reported spending reached Rs. 40,794 crore in 2024–25, with education and healthcare accounting for more than half of the total. At the same time, the reported concentration of expenditure among selected sectors and large companies highlights the need to examine how CSR resources are distributed and evaluated. Differences in state-level spending also deserve closer investigation, although the available figures do not establish the actual distribution of social benefits. The central conclusion is that increased spending and effective social development are related but distinct questions. A stronger CSR framework should combine financial accountability with transparent outcome reporting, appropriate project selection and credible impact assessment. This would help companies move beyond meeting statutory requirements towards making their social contributions more meaningful and measurable.

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