This paper examines the changing landscape of sustainability reporting in India, with a focus on the Business Responsibility and Sustainability Report (BRSR) introduced under the Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) framework. The report highlights how businesses are increasingly being held accountable for their contributions to sustainable development, as highlighted by the growing mandates from countries like the United States, China, the United Kingdom, and India. Since the Companies Act of 2013 made Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) mandatory, there has been a surge in sustainability efforts among Indian companies. With the full implementation of BRSR in 2023, the top 1,000 listed companies in India are now required to disclose their sustainability performance in alignment with the National Guidelines on Responsible Business Conduct (NGRBC). This article explores the stages of development, legal frameworks, and adoption of international standards, while stressing the importance of transparency, risk reduction, and gaining a competitive advantage through sustainability practices. Additionally, the paper highlights the challenges and opportunities of sustainability reporting in India, focusing on data quality, awareness, and its integration into corporate strategy. By exploring the materiality assessment process and performance indicators related to economic, social, and environmental factors, this article demonstrates the transformative potential of sustainability reporting for fostering a more sustainable and responsible business environment.
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