India Inc.’s DEI push: Amid Trump’s DEI rollback in the U.S., corporates in India commit to stay true to the diversity and inclusion agenda - The Hindu

India's unwavering commitment to DEI

Despite the recent rollback of DEI programs in the US following President Trump's executive order, Indian corporations are steadfast in their commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI).

Reasons for India's continued DEI focus

• Talent Acquisition: The critical need for talent in India necessitates expanding the talent pool, pushing businesses toward DEI initiatives.
• Long-term Investments: Many Indian firms have invested in DEI for years, making it difficult to reverse ongoing efforts.
• Government Support: Unlike the US, Indian governments generally favor expanding opportunities for women, disabled people, and certain minority groups, creating a supportive environment for DEI.
• Social Context: The unique socio-historical context of India requires a focus on social justice, and policies like reservations for SC/ST communities in public sector jobs are a key example of existing bias-correcting efforts.

Challenges and Adaptations

While Indian companies are committed, challenges remain. Some multinational companies are renaming or downplaying their DEI efforts due to the changing environment in the US. Smaller organizations may lack the resources or established business cases for significant DEI initiatives. Concerns are particularly raised about the lack of focus on the LGBTQIA+ community, though this hasn't led to a widespread rollback of DEI efforts.

The Future of DEI in India

Experts believe that while some aspects might see setbacks (like making representation data public or media outreach), there's no indication that hiring or retention efforts will slow down. The article emphasizes that DEI in India is deeply rooted in its social justice principles and government support, suggesting it's unlikely to be merely a 'passing trend'.