India International Centre (IIC) Director K. N. Shrivastava has urged Indian companies to increase their corporate social responsibility (CSR) support for research and development (R&D), STEM education, remote-region development, sustainable livelihoods and cultural heritage research. He made the appeal at the 19th India CSR Summit 2026, held at the India International Centre in New Delhi on October 16, 2026.
Addressing the inaugural leadership session, CSR Enabling Innovation, as the Chief Guest, Shrivastava said India’s long-term development depended on stronger investment in science, technology and research. He called on companies to look beyond routine CSR activities and support initiatives that build lasting capabilities and benefit underserved communities.“No country can develop if that country does not lay sufficient emphasis on R&D and STEM,” he said.
CSR Must Support Research and Innovation
Shrivastava expressed concern over the limited attention given to research investment and said CSR could help strengthen India’s scientific and technological capabilities. He suggested that companies support universities, research institutions, scholarships, laboratories and innovation programmes.
“CSR should also be focusing on R&D,” he said, adding that the existing two per cent CSR allocation would not be enough to meet the country’s research needs. He also shared his personal view that the CSR provision should be increased, with additional resources directed towards research and development.
Focus on Remote and Underserved Regions
The IIC Director highlighted the need to direct CSR funding towards remote areas, including the North-East, where limited corporate presence can restrict development support. He urged companies to identify local needs and work with community organisations to deliver meaningful results.
He also stressed that CSR programmes should promote sustainable livelihoods, education, skills and entrepreneurship rather than focus only on temporary relief. Companies, he said, must ensure their CSR activities serve genuine social needs and remain transparent and accountable.
Support for Cultural and Heritage Research
Drawing on his experience as a former Director General of the Archaeological Survey of India, Shrivastava called for greater research into India’s cultural heritage. He specifically urged CSR donors to support multidisciplinary research on the Indus script, which remains undeciphered.
The inaugural session featured corporate CSR and sustainability leaders, including representatives from Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited, Jubilant Ingrevia Limited and Bharat Forge Limited. Rusen Kumar, Founder and Editor of India CSR, delivered the welcome address.The programme also saw the release of India@100 Resurgent Bharat: Road Map for 2047 and Owed to Every Child.
Shrivastava’s message was clear: CSR should combine innovation with inclusion and invest in solutions that strengthen communities, research institutions and India’s long-term development.
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