By Manish Kumar Singh
Philanthropy is embedded in the Indian culture since ancient times. But it wasn’t a conscious Giving Action, people are doing it as and when it was needed. But in the era of industrialization and complex work environment where lot of inter-relationship is required, social responsibility become very important tool.
Social Responsibility: A New Lifestyle
So now, charity, philanthropy, and donation have a new name: Social Responsibility (SR). This concept is steadily becoming part of the lifestyle in society for people who can afford it. Social Responsibility can be classified as responsibilities held by Corporate Citizens and Individual Citizens.
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR): A Business Mandate
Primarily, Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), which is now the most prevalent ‘buzz’ word, is being managed by corporations under their business mandates and is well integrated into business processes. CSR has demonstrated its significance as an essential business tool to address challenges arising from various critical stakeholders and a complex ecosystem.
Individual Social Responsibility (ISR): Building a Healthy Society
However, the larger point is the social responsibilities that lie with individuals who can contribute to healthy society-building through Individual Social Responsibility Actions (ISR).
Similarities and Differences in CSR and ISR
Although the nature of activities under Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and Individual Social Responsibility (ISR) remains fundamentally the same, with the upliftment of society at the core of both practices, they are practiced separately in the Indian context. CSR and ISR, known as part of Employee Engagement Activities, have been in effect since the introduction of the CSR law in 2014.
Corporate Citizen’s Role in CSR
CSR is something practiced by corporate citizens to improve the living conditions of communities around their business locations.
ISR: Developing a Culture of Engagement
ISR is about developing a culture within an organization that engages its workforce in various community projects as part of their individual responsibility toward society.
ISR: Beyond Immediate Circles
ISR involves individuals taking responsibility for actions that affect communities beyond their immediate circles of friends or acquaintances. It is not limited to acts of charity or working for communities where there is a material interest. These are just forms of ISR, a broader concept that can be manifested through actions such as:
- Philanthropic Behavior: Demonstrating a philanthropic mindset in individual behavior.
- Campaigning and Volunteering: The instincts of a campaigner, volunteer, or activist to pick up and support issues affecting society.
Ethical Conduct
Lastly, ISR is also about individuals conducting themselves with integrity and honesty in all their dealings.
About the author
Manish Kumar Singh heads Corporate Social Responsibility at Everest Industries Limited
