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A recent study by Avtar Group, a workplace culture consulting firm, reveals that Indian and non-US multinational companies (MNCs) are maintaining their commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) despite the US government’s executive order ending DEI efforts in federal institutions.
The survey, conducted among senior leadership across 44 Indian and multinational companies, highlights how India Inc is responding to the changing DEI landscape in the US. While some US-based companies in India are rolling back initiatives, the study shows that a majority of Indian and non-US MNCs are continuing their DEI programs without change.
Key Findings from the Study
- Nearly all Indian MNCs and non-US MNCs confirmed that their DEI initiatives would continue as is.
- Among US-headquartered companies in India, 50% stated that their DEI programs would continue either unchanged (17%) or with modifications (33%).
- 71% of all companies surveyed said they pursue DEI to foster an inclusive and stronger work culture.
- 33% of Indian affiliates of US companies believe discontinuing DEI could negatively impact talent acquisition, while 28% think it could lower employee morale.
- 56% of US-based companies reported that women employees would be most affected by the rollback of DEI initiatives.
The study suggests that while some US MNCs operating in India are pausing DEI initiatives, nearly half plan to retain them, either fully or with adaptations.
Avtar-Seramount’s 10th Edition of ‘Best Companies for Women in India’ (BCWI) Study Launched
Amid ongoing debates on DEI, Avtar and Seramount have launched the 10th edition of the ‘Best Companies for Women in India’ (BCWI) study, a long-standing benchmark for workplace inclusivity. Initiated in 2016, BCWI provides companies with a data-driven approach to building inclusive workplaces and identifying gaps in their DEI practices.
In 2024, 361 companies from various industries participated, reflecting the growing importance of DEI in corporate India. The 2025 edition introduces new categories, including the ‘Most Inclusive Companies Index’ (MICI) and the ‘Best Companies for ESG in India’ (BCESG), aimed at recognising companies excelling in Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) commitments.
Why DEI Matters for Indian Companies
Dr Saundarya Rajesh, Founder-President of Avtar Group, noted that DEI in India is driven by cultural necessity and regulatory frameworks such as the Maternity Benefit Act, POSH Act, and SEBI’s mandate for women on boards. She emphasised that more than 75% of BCWI-participating companies reported increased profits, higher innovation revenue, and better customer satisfaction scores due to DEI initiatives.
“The ‘Best Companies for Women in India’ study has not only increased women’s representation but also fostered inclusive cultures that enhance productivity, profitability, and talent retention. In the current DEI landscape, our benchmarking studies offer critical insights into how Indian companies perceive and implement DEI,” she said.
Companies interested in participating in the BCWI, MICI, and BCESG studies can register through Avtar & Seramount’s benchmarking platform.
For more information, visit: Avtar DEI Benchmarking
