Traditional vs. ESG-Driven Investments: A Comparative Analysis of Financial Performance, Risk, and Long-Term Sustainability in India

This paper deep dives into a scholarly investigation of conventional and Environment, Social, and Governance assisted investments in case of India. It also analyzes their economic results, levels of risks, and sustainability in the long run. The research attempts to understand what motivates the ESG investments, including some aspects of the Union Budget 2025, national policies, G20 pledges as well as India’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Also, the study seeks to understand the significance of ESG investments for young professionals and highlights some of the gaps in current literature with aims and future research suggestions. Key Words: ESG investment, ESG vs Traditional investment, ESG Performance analysis