India's journey towards sustainability is gaining momentum, driven by a strong focus on ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) principles and ambitious net-zero targets. The country's commitment is reflected in its renewable energy goals – aiming for 500 GW of non-fossil energy capacity and cutting a billion tons of carbon emissions by 2030. This shift is not just policy-driven; it mirrors growing investor confidence. The Global Sustainable Investment Alliance reports that 41 global E&S-focused funds have allocated 25% of their assets to Indian equities, signaling rising ESG investments.
Despite being voluntary, 51% of India’s top 100 companies disclosed their Scope 3 emissions in FY23, showcasing increasing corporate responsibility. India's net-zero pledge by 2070 reflects a balanced, long-term approach, aligning national development with sustainability. While this target lags developed nations, it underscores India's unique growth trajectory. As the public and private sectors embrace ESG, the path forward relies on collaboration, innovation, and accountability.
Recognizing the significance of ESG, Dun & Bradstreet India is pleased to host its 3rd edition of ‘ESG Leadership Summit 2025’ on the theme "Setting a Sustainable Course for Growth" on June 27, 2025. The summit will feature keynote addresses and deliberations with ESG leaders, government institutions and ministries along with regulatory bodies. The summit will also feature the felicitation of the Dun & Bradstreet ‘ESG Champions of India 2025’ for implementation of key ESG initiatives and will be witnessing the launch of the special Dun & Bradstreet report titled ‘Rethinking the Future of Sustainability Sector’.
The event will spotlight India’s growing focus on ESG principles, emphasizing its role in driving sustainable growth and meeting ambitious net-zero targets. It will highlight how ESG initiatives are fostering innovation and resilience across sectors, shaping India’s future on both local and global stages.
In line with Government and Corporate India's growing emphasis on ESG, the theme for this year, ‘Setting a Sustainable Course for Growth,’ encapsulates the interconnected elements essential for sustainable development and economic growth. The theme will focus on three fundamental areas.
Responsible ESG practices and strong ESG governance is vital for long-term value creation. Independent directors and committees play a pivotal role in overseeing companies’ ESG frameworks, ensuring accountability. Transparent ESG reporting and adherence to disclosure standards enhance investor trust and drive sustainable growth.
Assessing ESG risks strengthens corporate resilience against environmental and social disruptions. By embedding sustainability into core strategies and leveraging technology, businesses can navigate uncertainties, ensuring long-term profitability. A resilient culture fosters adaptability, safeguarding growth and stakeholder interests.
Integrating ESG into MSMEs accelerates India’s sustainability goals. Scaling best practices across MSMEs enhances their competitiveness. Success stories highlight how ESG-driven MSMEs unlock growth, reduce risks, and contribute to broader economic and environmental progress.
The ‘Rethinking the Future of Sustainability Sector’ report will spotlight leading companies driving impactful ESG initiatives. Launched at the summit, it will provide expert insights, interviews, and case studies showcasing ESG success stories.
The report will feature an overview of India’s ESG landscape, including policies, regulations, and implementation strategies, alongside thematic analysis of industry trends and challenges.
A curated list of 1,200 top-listed companies (turnover > INR 100 crores, FY’24) will highlight ESG leaders across sectors.
Award winners’ profiles and initiatives demonstrating significant societal impact will further inspire and guide businesses on their ESG journey.
Dun & Bradstreet will acknowledge and recognize companies for their ESG performance towards achieving sustainable development goals. The awards cover 10 categories, which are based on ESG performance parameters.
V Ranganathan Iyer Group Chief Information Officer & EVP-IT JBM Group
A K Makkar Group Chief Sustainability officer & Director – Manufacturing JK Tyre
Mahesh Munjal Chairman & Managing Director Majestic Auto Limited
Sourabh Mukherjee Executive Vice President - Clean Energy & Sustainability Tata Projects
Avinash Gupta Managing Director & CEO – India Dun & Bradstreet
Dr. Arun Singh Global Chief Economist Dun & Bradstreet
Preeta Misra Senior Director – Credibility & Business Insights Group ESG and SME Dun & Bradstreet India
Hitesh Sethi Senior Director Analytics and Business Advisory Dun & Bradstreet India
Arnab Deb Director – ESG & Climate Change Dun & Bradstreet India
Element 1: Responsible: Embracing Sustainability
Element 2: Resilient: Building Business Resilience with Tech Innovations
Element 3: Rooted: Deepening ESG Integration in MSMEs
Dun & Bradstreet Information Services India Pvt. Ltd.
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