Empowering Aatmanirbhar Bharat: The Crucial Role of Indian CSR in Supporting Think Tanks

India’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) framework, launched in 2013, aimed to align private contributions with national needs. Over the last decade, it has created one of the world’s largest corporate social funds, surpassing INR 34,900 crore in FY 2023–24. This funding has made a significant impact on education, health, and rural development—crucial areas where India has struggled historically.

However, there’s a concerning gap: very little of this money is directed toward policy research. In FY 2023–24, only INR 1.91 crore went to “Technology Incubators,” highlighting a neglect of evidence-based decision-making.

Why Research Matters

To make Aatmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) a reality, the country needs more than just schools and hospitals. It requires research and ideas that inform sound policies and foster innovative solutions. For instance, utilizing AI in remote healthcare calls for tech support, which is only possible through thorough research.

India’s expenditure on research and development is significantly low at 0.64% of GDP (2022–23). In contrast, countries like China and South Korea invest 2.4% and 4.9%, respectively (UNESCO). The lack of independent research is alarming, especially when institutions like NITI Aayog emphasize the need for robust evaluations in policy-making.

The FCRA Challenge

Many Indian think tanks relied on international funding, but this has dwindled. Between 2011 and 2024, over 20,600 FCRA registrations were canceled, leaving only about 16,000 NGOs allowed to receive foreign funds (MHA FCRA Dashboard, 2025). This uncertainty makes it essential for domestic CSR to support home-grown policy research.

Opportunities Within the Law

Interestingly, the Companies Act, 2013, already permits CSR funding for research projects in recognized institutions. Amendments made during the pandemic allowed greater flexibility in this area. Redirecting CSR funds toward research aligns with national goals and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in promoting economic growth and reducing inequalities.

Potential Benefits of CSR-Funded Research

Investing a small percentage of CSR funds into policy research could yield great benefits:

• Enhancing the competitiveness of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).
• Preparing the workforce for future jobs linked to technology and sustainability.
• Providing independent evaluations to improve delivery and governance.
• Bridging the gap between research and industry.

Even redirecting 5-10% of CSR funds could generate between INR 1,700–3,500 crore annually, a sum surpassing historical foreign contributions.

Ensuring Responsible Funding

Corporate boards often worry about reputational risks in funding research. Simple safeguards can help mitigate these concerns:

• Partnering only with recognized institutions.
• Using independent committees to oversee projects.
• Linking funding to peer-reviewed results.
• Making research available to the public for transparency.

By taking these steps, CSR can support effective policy work while ensuring accountability.

The Path Forward

India’s CSR efforts have transformed education, health, and rural infrastructure, but there’s a critical need for knowledge investment. Ideas and policies are the foundation of a self-reliant nation.

Aatmanirbhar Bharat cannot rely solely on production. Strengthening our intellectual capabilities through CSR-funded research is essential to realizing this vision and achieving the national priorities that the CSR law intended to support.

For more insights on CSR and research funding, you can explore NITI Aayog or reports from reputable sources like the World Bank.

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