BRSR 2.0 in India: What’s Changed and Why It Matters Now

harshas2883
Oct 31
2 min read

By the time you're done reading this, your view of corporate sustainability in India might just shift forever.

Do you know how much your favourite company actually contributes to climate action or gender equity—or how much of it is just clever marketing?

India’s latest regulatory leap—BRSR 2.0 (Business Responsibility and Sustainability Reporting)—is forcing corporations to answer that question. Not just vaguely, but with numbers, metrics, and action.

And it’s no longer optional.

From Paper Promises to Measurable Progress

India introduced BRSR in 2021 as a framework to make listed companies report their ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) efforts transparently. Fast-forward to 2024–25, and we now have BRSR 2.0, a revamped version with teeth.

So, what’s different? And why does it matter?

What’s Changed in BRSR 2.0?

Here’s what’s really new under the hood:

It’s a bold shift—one that can make or break reputations.

Data Speaks: India’s ESG Reporting Reality

Let’s not sugarcoat it: Indian companies still lag global peers on ESG transparency. According to a 2024 report by CRISIL:

Only 47% of NIFTY 500 companies disclosed Scope 3 emissions.
Less than 30% reported water usage across their supply chain.
Over 65% still do not perform independent ESG assurance.

Now imagine what happens when BRSR 2.0 becomes the new compliance standard.

A Case Study: Tata Steel’s ESG Pivot

In anticipation of BRSR 2.0, Tata Steel revamped its sustainability reporting. It disclosed not just its Scope 1 and 2 emissions, but also went upstream to track mining-related emissions. It even engaged with downstream users to estimate steel recycling rates.

The result? In 2025, it ranked in the top 10 in the S&P Global ESG ratings in Asia.

That’s what leadership looks like when regulation meets commitment.

BRSR 2.0 and You: Why It Matters Beyond Corporates

If you're an investor, this helps you identify greenwashing versus real change. If you're a consumer, this gives you power to choose brands that walk the talk. If you're a startup or MSME, this is your early warning: ESG expectations are coming your way too.

Take Action: What Should You Do Now?

Investors: Ask for BRSR 2.0-aligned disclosures before investing.
Employees: Check if your company is adopting the new norms. If not, why?
Students & Professionals: Upskill in ESG frameworks. Demand for talent is rising fast.
Founders: Begin ESG data collection now. When it becomes mandatory, you won’t be left scrambling.