India’s first research chair in Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) will be set up at the Indian Institute of Management, Ahmedabad (IIMA) in collaboration with the National Investment and Infrastructure Fund Limited (NIIF)..
The newly formed NIIF Chair in ESG at IIMA will work closely with the Arun Duggal ESG Centre for Research and Innovation at IIM-A. It will function as the principal hub of knowledge and insights and allow businesses and policy makers to incorporate ESG principles in their long-term business and governance decisions.
Strengthening ecosystem
NIIF, India’s sovereign-linked alternative assets manager, finds it fit for fund managers to create a sustainable and responsible investment community to unlock significant value for stakeholders as well as the broader society. The setting up of the NIIF Chair in ESG at IIMA will help build an ecosystem of stakeholders and shape the future of adopting best practices in ESG in the country, a statement said.
The NIIF Chair in ESG at IIMA will have activities such as conducting research on crucial, globally relevant ESG issues, engaging with industry to create long-term ESG oriented business strategies and practices and acting as a knowledge partner to Government(s) in relation to policy formulation. Also, it will engage with international think tanks and agencies to create knowledge and experience sharing opportunities and platforms.
Bridging gaps
Errol D’Souza, Director, IIMA said, “The industry is increasingly realising the importance of recognising and incorporating ESG in their operations. The research chair for ESG will work towards structuring and crafting a strategic roadmap for policymakers, practitioners, and students at the Institute to help plug in gaps in research and development in the area.”
This association will have its long-term implications in supporting a climate-sensitive, green economy, stated Sujoy Bose, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, NIIF. “This collaboration complements NIIF’s ability to influence and activate a large ecosystem of infrastructure investors and partners, growing companies of national importance, and Indian fund managers, with IIMA’s strong alumni network, rigorous academic approach and research capabilities,” said Bose.
“Strengthened by our partnership with IIMA, we hope to lead the conversation and actions around climate preservation and sustainable development,” he added.
The appointment for the NIIF Chair in ESG at IIMA position will be initiated through a public announcement inviting applications with details of eligibility criteria and process. IIMA had recently inaugurated the Arun Duggal ESG Centre for Research and Innovation with the objective of establishing a Centre of Excellence to help Indian industries design and implement development strategies that are equally mindful and responsible towards societal prosperity and environmental sustainability.