In a step toward embedding sustainability into business leadership, NDTV, The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI), and Zenora have jointly launched an innovative Executive ESG Certification Program. This strategic collaboration aims to shift ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) from a regulatory checkbox to a driver of competitive advantage and long-term growth.
Empowering Leaders to Lead the ESG Agenda
Titled “Strategic ESG for Business Sustainability and Growth,” the 13-week hybrid program is set to begin in July 2025. The program is designed for CXOs, board members, senior executives, and ESG/CSR professionals. It blends flexible online learning with a two-day immersive campus experience.
Participants will gain hands-on tools, strategic frameworks, and actionable roadmaps to help steer their organizations through complex ESG transitions. Dr. Shruti Sharma, Program Director and Associate Professor at TERI SAS, said, “This isn’t just a course – it catalyzes leadership.” “We’re equipping executives with the insights and methodologies to align ESG initiatives with value creation and business growth.”
NDTV to Amplify ESG Conversation Nationwide
As a partner in the initiative, NDTV will play a critical role in driving awareness and extending the program’s reach across India’s business ecosystem. Known for its impactful campaigns such as Banega Swasth India, Clean Air India, and the India Sustainability Mission, NDTV brings a powerful voice to the ESG dialogue. “As climate challenges escalate and regulatory landscapes evolve, this initiative embeds ESG thinking at the heart of business strategy,” noted Dipankar Saharia, Senior Director at TERI.
Program Curriculum: From Compliance to Competitive Strategy
The program tailors ESG Certification content to Indian business needs while aligning with international standards and best practices. Key highlights include:
- Climate Risk Assessment and business impact analysis
- Materiality Assessment using GRI, SASB, WEF, and SEBI-BRSR standards
- Mastery of ESG Frameworks including GRI, SASB, CDP, TCFD, BRSR, and the UN SDGs
- Net Zero Roadmapping and integration with core business functions
- Boardroom-Ready Implementation Plans and strategic ESG alignment
“This program translates complex global ESG frameworks into the Indian context. It also drives real, measurable transformation,” said Dr. Amit Kumar Thakur, Associate Director – Social Transformation and CSR, TERI.
Meeting the Moment: ESG Skills for a Changing World
As reported by msn.com, with sustainability roles among the fastest-growing global career paths, the timing of this initiative is ideal. In India, regulatory frameworks such as Business Responsibility and Sustainability Reporting (BRSR) are redefining how companies operate and disclose performance. “Our mission is to make sustainability work for business,” emphasized Pankaj Chandra, CEO and Founder of Zenora. “This certification helps leaders move from policy to performance, embedding ESG into every decision.”