02/07/2026
When we hear terms like ESG and CSR, it’s easy to think of annual reports, compliance requirements, and corporate jargon. But our recent panel discussion reminded us that behind every sustainability metric and social initiative lies a much bigger question:
What responsibility do businesses have towards society, and how do we know they’re truly fulfilling it?
As part of the MBA 17 Orientation Week at NMIMS Bengaluru, Udyam hosted “Profit, Purpose, or PR? The ESG Debate Businesses Can’t Ignore”—a conversation that challenged students to look beyond buzzwords and think critically about the future of business.
From questioning whether ESG is driving real change or simply better storytelling, to discussing the growing skepticism around sustainability initiatives, the session explored the realities, challenges, and opportunities surrounding responsible business practices.
The discussion also touched upon India’s unique CSR mandate, the importance of measuring meaningful impact rather than just reporting numbers, and the difficult decisions organizations face when business objectives and societal expectations don’t always align.
For the incoming MBA 17 cohort, the session served as a reminder that leadership today is not just about driving profits—it’s about asking better questions, making informed decisions, and creating value that extends beyond the balance sheet.
A heartfelt thank you to our esteemed panelists Ms. Rumi, Prof. Abhishek, Mr. Lokesh, Mr. Surendran for sharing their insights and experiences.
