Navigating the Intersection of Input Tax Credit Restrictions and Corporate Social Responsibility in India

Abstract

CSR is an important dimension of ethical and sustainable business practices, recent restrictions in the input tax credit under the GST regime pose important issues in the implementation of CSR. The article estimates the financial, operational, and reputational implications of the restrictions on ITC for the CSRs, calling on firms to adapt and innovate. They are strategies crucial for dealing with challenges concerning financial planning, prioritizing of only those initiatives with the best impact, collaboration, and advocacy can be done. Several strategic approaches can be applied by business to operate with the ITC provision on restrictions for CSR spending such as, enhanced financial planning, collaborative efforts, Innovating on CSR Approaches, Advocacy and Policy Engagement, Stakeholder Engagement and Communication, Business Strategy Integration with CSR, Diversification of Alternative Revenue Streams. Despite constraints in the regulatory environment, the commitment to CSR is very high, and it therefore brings about a positive influence on Indian society and sustainable development. The finding demonstrates that business implementing strategies for navigating ITC restrictions not only mitigate the financial strain due to ITC restrictions but also enhance operational efficacy to maintain competitive edge, improve financial health and strategic position.