Corporate social responsibility in development of rural health in India

In India, there is a growing realization that business cannot succeed in isolation and social progress is necessary for sustainable growth. An ideal CSR practice has both ethical and philosophical dimensions, particularly in India where there exists a wide gap between sections of people in terms of income and standards as well socio-economic status. Despite several growths orientated policies adopted by the government, the widening economic, regional and gender disparities are posing challenges for the health care sector which account for one third of population, have 70% of their population living in rural areas. Corporate Social Responsibility is not a new term in India, but however there is a shift in focus towards the challenges faced by society which is a good positive sign. Each company has responsibility ofcontributing something to the society and can no longer exploit the environmental resources. Most of the companies in India have identified the need of CSR and already in target of the wellness of the society. In the last decade, CSR has rapidly evolved in India with some companies focusing on strategic CSR initiatives to contribute toward nation building. Gradually, the companies in India started focusing on need-based initiatives aligned with the national priorities such as public health, education, livelihoods, water conservation and natural resource management. Intensive national level deliberations on the potential role and responsibility of the corporate sector in contributing toward addressing social issues were witnessed. CSR is regarded as vehicle through which companies give something back to the society. It involves providing innovative solutions to society and environmental challenges. But the challenge for development professionalism and well health community where it is to be identify as CSR priorities and the areas of interventions which are meaningful in the context of rural development sector. Therefore, there is a need to study and understand how corporate enterprises are using CSR initiatives and which makes an on impact of CSR actions on health care development of people in rural areas.