Beyond compliance: the business case for gender diversity on boards and sustainability reporting in India

Countries around the world have shown concerns towards the sustainability aspects of the firms for their long-term growth and survival. The representation of women directors on board is often looked as a positive sign for improving various governance related aspects. Based on this premise, the study investigated the relationship between gender diversity on board and sustainability reporting using a sample of 220 firms for a period of 5 years (2018-2022). The study used rigorous framework based on ESG scores developed by CRISIL to measure the sustainability reporting in the Indian context. The analysis was conducted with the help of dynamic panel data regression models, and it was found that gender diversity positively impacts corporate sustainability disclosure. The study is unique in the context of India which is an emerging economy and provides valuable suggestions for improving the governance and sustainability practices by firms in India.