The Entrepreneurship Development Institute of India (EDII), Ahmedabad, organised a roundtable on “Climate Change and Sustainable Businesses” at India Habitat Centre, New Delhi, bringing together Government officials, corporate representatives, CSR leaders and development-sector stakeholders to discuss ways to build climate-resilient enterprises and sustainable livelihoods.
The roundtable focused on the growing impact of climate change on businesses, communities and local economies. Participants discussed how entrepreneurship, skills, technology and responsible business practices can help communities respond to environmental challenges while creating sustainable economic opportunities.
Anita Shah Akella, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Corporate Affairs, Government of India, attended the event and highlighted the need to view climate change not only as an environmental issue but also from the perspectives of policy, business and implementation. She stressed the importance of integrating climate action into business practices and ensuring that sustainability moves beyond discussions to meaningful implementation. The discussions also examined the role of companies and institutions in developing practical approaches to climate resilience.
Bibhuti Ranjan Pradhan, Executive Director (Coordination & CSR), emphasised the importance of collaboration among Government, corporates, CSR organisations, institutions and communities. He said sustainable enterprises and livelihoods require practical interventions, capacity building, innovation and partnerships that can deliver long-term results at the grassroots level.
The roundtable was organised in line with the concerns raised by Dr Sunil Shukla, Director General, EDII, regarding the increasing effects of climate change on livelihoods, businesses and local economies. The discussions explored how CSR initiatives can contribute to resilience through entrepreneurship development, skill building, technology adoption, sustainable products, market linkages and enterprise creation.
Participants underlined that sustainable businesses must combine environmental responsibility with economic viability. Stronger market connections and partnerships between businesses, CSR organisations, Government agencies, institutions and local communities were identified as important for creating lasting impact.
A total of 22 CSR officials participated in the roundtable and shared perspectives on climate resilience, sustainable enterprise development and inclusive livelihood opportunities. The event concluded with a commitment to continue discussions and identify collaborative solutions that connect climate action with entrepreneurship, sustainable livelihoods and inclusive economic growth.
EDII is a national resource institute working in entrepreneurship education, research, training, capacity building, institution building, MSME development and startup incubation. Supported by leading financial institutions and the Government of Gujarat, the institute has been recognised as a Centre of Excellence by the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship. EDII works with Government departments and corporates on projects aimed at enterprise creation, livelihood development and inclusive entrepreneurship.
