The MoU, signed on 31st October 2025, is a key step towards creating a common sustainability reporting framework that connects the government’s National Indicator Framework (NIF) with corporate environmental, social, and governance (ESG) metrics and CSR activities. This unified framework will support evidence-based policymaking and encourage responsible corporate participation in India’s development agenda.
According to officials, the framework will align State Indicator Frameworks (SIFs) with national priorities, ensuring that businesses’ CSR and ESG activities contribute directly to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) at both state and national levels.
Leadership and Collaboration
The collaboration was led by Shri Gyaneshwar Kumar Singh, Director General and CEO of IICA, known for steering initiatives in ESG, CSR, and responsible business conduct. The MoU signing ceremony witnessed participation from senior officials including Sh. Kishor Baburao Surwade, Additional Director General (MoSPI), Dr. Garima Dadhich, Head of the School of Business Environment at IICA, and other key representatives from both institutions.
Shri Singh emphasized that this partnership would “bridge policy intent with implementation” by connecting corporate sustainability efforts with measurable SDG outcomes. The effort aims to make India’s data ecosystem more inclusive and transparent for all stakeholders.
Building on the National Indicator Framework
The National Indicator Framework (NIF) forms the foundation for this initiative. It tracks India’s progress toward achieving the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. Under the new framework, MoSPI and IICA will expand this approach to incorporate state-level metrics and private-sector indicators related to ESG and CSR.
The integrated framework will help policymakers and industry leaders evaluate how corporate initiatives align with government priorities, ensuring synergy between economic growth, environmental stewardship, and social equity. This holistic approach is expected to strengthen India’s data-driven governance and make SDG implementation more transparent and measurable.
Driving Corporate Responsibility for Viksit Bharat
By linking CSR and ESG activities with the SDG targets, the MoSPI–IICA initiative seeks to encourage sustainable corporate behavior aligned with India’s long-term development vision. The project promotes collaboration between the public and private sectors, ensuring that every CSR initiative contributes meaningfully to the Viksit Bharat mission.
Experts note that such alignment will not only improve the quality of data reporting but also foster responsible investments and sustainability-driven business models across India’s corporate landscape.
Toward an Inclusive and Sustainable Future
Through this MoU, MoSPI and IICA reaffirm their commitment to creating an evidence-based, transparent, and accountable framework for India’s sustainable growth. By integrating SDG, ESG, and CSR metrics, the initiative marks a major stride toward ensuring that government policies and corporate actions work hand in hand for an inclusive and prosperous Viksit Bharat.