Companies continue funding PM CARES despite minimal annual spending

The PM CARES fund ended the 2024-25 financial year with a balance of Rs 8,452 crore while spending merely Rs 87.85 lakh during the period. Despite the massive reserves and minimal disbursements, Indian companies continue directing Corporate Social Responsibility funds toward the scheme.

Corporate disclosures rarely explain the rationale behind choosing PM CARES as a CSR recipient. The large accumulation of funds relative to actual spending has prompted scrutiny over how the reserves are being utilised and whether such contributions represent effective use of CSR mandates.

The pattern raises broader questions about corporate governance and transparency in CSR allocation decisions, particularly when alternative avenues for social impact spending exist.