Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) refers to a self- regulating business model which aids any firm in being socially responsible to itself, its stakeholders and the community as a whole. It is based on the concept that an entity, which utilizes the resources of the society, should contribute back to the society. CSR activities were generally undertaken by the corporates voluntarily due to several advantages like enhancement of public image/ recognition, better employee engagement, attract and retain investors, sustainable growth of the country and better ratings for the company.

CSR being a voluntary act earlier, was not considered legally binding till the time the Companies Act, 2013 for the very first time, made it a legal requirement to undertake CSR activities. The concept of Corporate Social Responsibility is contained in Section 135 of Companies Act, 2013 read with Companies (Corporate Social Responsibility Policy) Rules, 2014 and Schedule VII of the act.

Section 135 of the act has undergone amendment twice since its inception; first by Companies (Amendment) Act 2017 and then by Companies (Amendment) Act 2019. CSR rules have also similarly undergone several changes. This article aims to discuss these changes made under 2019 amendment and the usefulness of these changes.

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