Inclusion or Illusion: Decoding the D&I Paradox in India Inc.

It is true that for some, the hope is to reach a point where Diversity and Inclusion (D&I) becomes a ‘normal’ part of everyday life and importantly, everyone’s mindset. However, others are still grappling with its complexities and recognizing that it requires continuous effort and commitment. Moreover, it is vital to recognize that while some may feel that the topic has been discussed exhaustively, the lived experiences of many still reflect ongoing challenges. For organizations to genuinely progress, they must balance these varying perspectives and foster an environment where open dialogue is encouraged and valued. This includes acknowledging that D&I is not just a checkbox but a dynamic journey that requires continuous reflection and adaptation. The role of leadership is crucial in this context. Leaders set the tone and can influence organizational culture significantly. By embracing empathy, sharing their own experiences, and actively promoting D&I initiatives, they can inspire others to do the same.

The formal movement towards D&I globally began in the 1960s with new laws and societal reforms, setting the stage for what now has become an essential component of modern organizational strategy. Today, organizations are at varied stages in their D&I journey, but for most, D&I has become crucial for building innovative, equitable, and high-performing workplaces.

Nevertheless, one often wonders what happens when an organization starts its ‘Diversity’ journey. When does it transcend from being a ‘compulsory action’ to truly valuing & understanding ‘Inclusion’? We conducted a comprehensive survey of nearly 100 leaders to unravel some of their organizational specific dynamics, and to understand their view on India Inc.’s journey from ‘Diversity’ to ‘Inclusion’.  

Our survey engaged CEOs, CHROs, and Chief D&I Officers from diverse sectors, including Banking & Financial Services, Business & Professional Services, Consumer & Retail, Diversified Business Groups, Education & Social, Healthcare & Lifesciences, Industrial & Manufacturing, Infrastructure & Real Estate, and Technology. This report consolidates our survey findings and analysis as well as key information from a few secondary resources. The paper further aims to capture the insights around the evolution of D&I as one of the core business ethos and to understand how far the Indian corporate sector has truly traversed on this journey.