Time to move beyond ceremonial CSR for the private sector’s greater development engagement
Summary
Nepal’s private sector is being urged to move beyond ceremonial CSR and become a strategic partner in development, disaster resilience and long-term social impact. The article argues that mandatory CSR funds should not be treated merely as compliance or tax, but aligned with business strategy and shared value creation.
Key Points
- CSR in Nepal is increasingly formalised, but the article argues that mandatory contributions alone do not capture its broader purpose or potential.
- A draft Company Act, 2083 would require companies with annual transactions above Rs250 million to deposit 1 percent of net profit into a government-managed CSR Reserve Fund.
- The article says Nepal should shift from ceremonial CSR to strategic CSR, where businesses align development goals with core operations and partnerships.
- The recent Bhotekoshi disaster is cited as an example of private-sector support in relief, while also showing the need for stronger disaster resilience collaboration.
