Jobs in small towns, gender diversity to earn India Inc better ESG ratings

Market regulator Sebi proposes new rating parameters better suited to domestic context

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) has proposed to overhaul the framework for ESG ratings by introducing parameters relevant to the Indian context, such as job creation in smaller cities and gender diversity.

In a fresh consultation paper, the market regulator has recommended a unique set of metrics for assigning environmental, social and governance (ESG) scores for listed companies. The parameters will be more aligned to the domestic economy.

“This need is felt since ESG in emerging markets is different as compared to developed jurisdictions. Emerging markets have a different set of environmental & social challenges and it