CORPORATE GOVERNANCE AND ETHICAL PRACTICES IN THE INDIAN CONTEXT: A CONCEPTUAL EXPLORATION OF TRANSPARENCY, DISCLOSURE, AND STAKEHOLDER TRUST

Corporate governance has emerged as a cornerstone of modern business management, shaping the relationship between corporations, stakeholders, and society at large. In the Indian context, the intersection of governance and ethical practices has gained significant relevance due to recurring corporate scandals, evolving regulatory frameworks, and growing investor awareness. This conceptual paper explores how corporate governance and ethical principles intersect to promote transparency, disclosure, and stakeholder trust in Indian corporations. It draws upon theoretical perspectives and institutional developments to understand how governance mechanisms—such as board accountability, disclosure norms, and ethical leadership—affect organizational legitimacy. The paper further examines the dynamic role of regulatory bodies like SEBI and the Ministry of Corporate Affairs in strengthening corporate ethics and governance culture. By synthesizing conceptual insights, it proposes a framework linking governance structures with ethical behavior and stakeholder confidence, offering implications for corporate boards, policymakers, and scholars seeking to advance integrity-driven governance systems in India.