Sectoral Variations in ESG Adoption in Indian Corporations: A Quantitative Assessment and Strategic Policy Implications

This study investigates sector-wise disparities in Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) adoption among Indian corporates using a dataset of over 2,500 firm-level observations across eleven sectors. Employing the Kruskal-Wallis H-test to address non-normal data distribution, the analysis reveals statistically significant variations in ESG performance. Sectors such as Oil & Mining and Automobiles demonstrate strong ESG integration, driven by regulatory oversight and investor scrutiny, whereas Textiles and Consumer Durables lag considerably. Governance emerges as the most mature pillar across sectors, while Environmental and Social dimensions exhibit uneven development. The findings emphasize the need for sector-specific ESG policies, enhanced regulatory mechanisms, and greater stakeholder engagement, especially among MSMEs. This paper contributes empirical insights for investors, policymakers, and business leaders to foster inclusive ESG integration in India.