Exploring the Extent of Sustainability Disclosure in Indian Companies: A Comparative Study of Public and Private Sector Enterprises

Abstract

This study explores the extent of sustainability disclosure practices in Indian companies, with a comparative analysis between public and private sector enterprises. Sustainability disclosure, which involves the reporting of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices, has become crucial in determining a company's commitment to sustainable development. The study analyzes the content and transparency of disclosures in annual and sustainability reports of selected Indian firms, highlighting differences in the disclosure practices between public and private entities. Using a mixed-method approach, quantitative data on sustainability indicators were collected from company reports, while qualitative insights were drawn from stakeholder interviews. The study found that public sector enterprises tend to disclose more information related to social and community initiatives, driven by government policies, whereas private sector enterprises focus more on environmental and governance issues, often aligning with global standards. However, the overall level of sustainability disclosure remains inconsistent across sectors, with significant room for improvement in both transparency and comprehensiveness.