Perceptions of Corporate Social Responsibility:A Study of the Social Segments in the Indian State of Goa

India has many mineral extraction and processing related businesses which are subjected to serious questions because of adverse effect they create on the environment and the people. After adoption of liberalized economic policies the relationship between business and society has undergone major change. To demonstrate social commitment businesses engage in Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) activities.But CSR, both as concept and practice, is subjected to many debates and confusions. There are questions about the real benefits it brings to communities and society. The perception of society varies among people from various age groups and education backgrounds. Social scientists feel that CSR benefits the businesses more than the society and companies use it as marketing tool to create good image among the potential customers. To open a useful debate on the subject a study was conducted in the state of Goa in India which has many iron ore mines. The study reports that the politically and socially powerful people influence the CSR related activities the most at the cost of marginalized and neglected communities including the tribal and migrants. CSR plans and programs are yet to align with the real needs of society.