This book presents a critical understanding of Indian business situated as an encounter between indigeneity and Western modernity by exploring notions and practices of responsibility. It brings the paradoxical nature of Indian businesses to the fore: though they have a rich history of philanthropic contributions to social causes, they have also been known for labour rights and human rights violations, environmental abuses, destruction of habitats, pollution and corruption. The book shows how Indian firms straddle these two starkly contrasting positions and the many blends in between to conform to global developments in the pursuit of corporate social responsibility (CSR). It also looks at the emergent field of critical studies and analysis of CSR, especially from the context of a developing country.

Part of the ‘Contemporary Themes in Business and Management’ series, this book will interest scholars of international business studies, management studies, economics, post-colonial management, organisational studies and corporate social responsibility, as well as businesses, corporates and practitioners.