India’s corporate sector is undergoing a profound transformation, with the nation’s largest companies increasingly recognizing that sustainability is not just a moral obligation but a strategic imperative for long-term growth and competitiveness. This shift is being driven by a combination of evolving regulatory frameworks, rising investor demand for Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) performance, and a growing awareness of climate risks and opportunities. In 2025, many of India’s corporate giants are at the forefront of this movement, setting new benchmarks for responsible business practices.
The Rise of ESG as a Core Business Strategy
ESG has moved from being a niche concept to a central pillar of corporate strategy in India. This is partly due to a supportive regulatory environment, including the Securities and Exchange Board of India’s (SEBI) mandate for the top 1,000 listed companies to file Business Responsibility and Sustainability Reports (BRSR). This has created a new level of transparency and accountability, prompting companies to embed sustainability into their core operations.
According to a recent report by Dun & Bradstreet India, the theme for the 2025 ESG Leadership Summit is “Setting a Sustainable Course for Growth,” which highlights the interconnectedness of ESG and economic development. The report notes that assessing ESG risks strengthens corporate resilience against environmental and social disruptions and that by embedding sustainability into their core strategies, businesses can navigate uncertainties and ensure long-term profitability.
Leading the Charge: Corporate Pioneers
Several of India’s largest conglomerates and corporations are leading the charge in sustainable business practices7 Their initiatives are not just about compliance but are aimed at creating real, measurable impacts across their value chains.
- Reliance Industries Limited (RIL): RIL has embraced green technology as a strategic pillar for sustainable growth, investing billions in renewable energy projects, including solar and wind farms. The company has also announced plans to deploy state-of-the-art carbon capture and storage technologies at its facilities. RIL’s commitment is a key component of India’s clean energy goals.
- Tata Group: As a pioneer in multiple industries, the Tata Group is making significant strides in green technology. Its subsidiary, Tata Power, is a leading producer of renewable energy with a wide portfolio of solar and wind projects. The group has also made substantial investments in electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure, facilitating zero-emission mobility for Indian consumers.
- Adani Group: The Adani Group has positioned itself as a key player in India’s green energy revolution. Adani Green Energy Limited (AGEL) has an ambitious goal of achieving 25 GW of installed renewable energy capacity. Additionally, Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone (APSEZ) is actively working to become the only carbon-neutral port operator in India by 2025 and achieve net zero by 2040.
- Hindustan Unilever (HUL): A leading FMCG company, HUL has made significant progress in its ESG journey. The company has achieved 100% water abstraction reduction in its manufacturing processes and has committed to reducing its greenhouse gas emissions. HUL’s focus on sustainable living extends to its products and supply chain, reflecting a holistic approach to sustainability.
- Infosys and Wipro: India’s IT majors, Infosys and Wipro, have long been global leaders in corporate sustainability. Infosys has achieved carbon neutrality, and both companies have invested heavily in renewable energy to power their operations, setting a high standard for the technology sector.
The Outlook for Sustainable Business
The commitment of India’s corporate leaders to sustainability is not an isolated trend but a reflection of a national agenda. The government’s push for “green growth” and its focus on a circular economy, clean energy, and sustainable infrastructure are creating a favorable ecosystem for businesses. As more companies align their strategies with these goals, India is poised to not only meet its climate targets but also create a more resilient, competitive, and equitable economy. The proactive approach of its largest corporations is paving the way for a new era of responsible and profitable growth.
