The Role of Corporate Social Responsibility in Building Brand Equity Among Indian Companies

The strategic role of corporate social responsibility (CSR) in enhancing brand equity in the Indian business environment is examined in this study. In India, corporate social responsibility (CSR) has evolved from charitable voluntarism to a legally required practice under the Companies Act of 2013, which requires businesses to incorporate social and environmental initiatives into their main business plans. The study synthesizes findings from academic literature and corporate case studies using descriptive analysis and secondary data to investigate the relationship between CSR initiatives and brand equity, which is defined by awareness, associations, loyalty, and perceived quality. According to research, CSR greatly increases customer trust, fortifies brand associations with moral principles, cultivates loyalty, and enhances a company's reputation in general. Leading Indian companies like the Tata Group, Hindustan Unilever, ITC, and Infosys provide case studies that highlight how socially conscious business practices strengthen long-term competitive advantage and brand differentiation. Concerns about greenwashing and sector-specific differences, however, draw attention to the necessity of genuine communication and more extensive comparative analysis. According to the study's findings, CSR is an essential strategic tool for building long-lasting stakeholder relationships and brand equity in India's cutthroat market, going beyond statutory compliance.