Introduction to DEI: A Business Imperative

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) have evolved from being social responsibilities to critical business imperatives. Organizations that prioritize DEI outperform their peers in innovation, financial performance, and employee engagement. According to a McKinsey report, companies in the top quartile for gender diversity are 25% more likely to have above-average profitability, while those excelling in ethnic diversity are 36% more likely to outperform competitors.

However, despite global advancements, India’s DEI landscape is still evolving. While many organizations have made significant strides, there remains a gap in structured recognition and benchmarking. This is where the DEI Symposium and the DEI Index step in - to not only applaud excellence but also set the benchmark for others to follow.

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Why Now? The Urgency of DEI Symposium

India is at a crucial juncture in its corporate evolution. While many companies are embracing DEI, challenges such as underrepresentation in leadership, gender pay gaps, workplace accessibility, and systemic biases remain prevalent. Recent workplace trends and global ESG compliance frameworks are compelling Indian organizations to take DEI seriously - not just as a compliance measure, but as a strategic advantage.

The DEI Symposium arrives at this pivotal moment to catalyze meaningful change, drive accountability, and set new industry benchmarks.

About DEI Symposium: A Movement for Change

DEI Symposium is envisioned as the country’s premier platform to drive meaningful conversations, share best practices, and recognize organizations championing DEI. Through this initiative, we aim to create an ecosystem that fosters inclusion at every level - be it gender, ethnicity, disability, LGBTQ+ representation, or neurodiversity.

As India’s first initiative of its kind, DEI Symposium will provide a platform for thought leaders, corporate pioneers, policymakers, and DEI advocates to come together and drive change at scale.

What to Expect at DEI Symposium

The DEI Symposium will be a dynamic and engaging event featuring:

01

'Unfiltered' DEI Dialogues – Raw, unscripted conversations featuring industry leaders, DEI advocates, and professionals who have lived through workplace challenges. No jargon, no rehearsed statements—just honest narratives that spark action.


02

Live DEI Barometer – A digital, real-time audience sentiment tracker capturing evolving perspectives on key DEI issues, shaping panel discussions on the spot based on live audience input.


03

The DEI Index Reveal & Celebration – India’s first-ever DEI Index launch, where we unveil the top 100 DEI-friendly organizations based on rigorous evaluation. Expect not just awards, but powerful storytelling, showcasing what real inclusion looks like.


04

Immersive Storytelling Sessions
  • Personal Narratives: Individuals from diverse backgrounds share their personal journeys, challenges, and successes in DEI, fostering empathy and deeper understanding.
  • Virtual Reality (VR) Experiences: Attendees engage with VR simulations that highlight unconscious bias and systemic inequalities, allowing them to step into different perspectives and experiences.


05

Cultural Showcases – Art and Music Performances: Live performances celebrating various cultures, promoting appreciation and awareness through creative expression.


06

Gamified Learning Experiences – Engaging interactive exercises that challenge biases and promote inclusive thinking.

Who Should attend ?

C-suite Executives

(CEOs, CHROs, Chief Diversity Officers)

HR & Talent Leaders

driving workplace inclusivity

Policymakers & Regulators

shaping DEI frameworks

Industry Bodies & Associations

championing DEI causes

Academics & DEI Researchers

bringing data-driven insights

NGOs & DEI Advocates

pushing for systemic change

DEI 100

Introducing DEI 100: A Benchmark for India

DEI 100 - India’s first structured ranking of organizations leading in DEI excellence.

Process Partner


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How It Works ?

  • Partnering with a Process Expert: We have collaborated with EY to define key evaluation parameters.
  • Screening & Shortlisting: Over 500 organizations will be assessed based on DEI metrics, policies, and initiatives.
  • Nomination & Evaluation: Organizations will submit detailed nominations, which will be reviewed by EY and their expert team.
  • Final Recognition: The top 100 organizations demonstrating exceptional commitment to DEI will be RANKED as part of the process.

This initiative will set a national benchmark, inspiring organizations to prioritize DEI not just as a compliance measure but as a strategic advantage.

How Organizations Benefit from DEI 100 Recognition ?

  • Employer Branding: Being listed in the DEI Index enhances reputation as an inclusive employer of choice.
  • Talent Attraction & Retention: Helps organizations attract diverse talent and improve employee engagement.
  • Investor Confidence: Demonstrates commitment to ESG & corporate responsibility, making the organization more attractive to investors.
  • National & Media Recognition: Featured in Business Standard, MarksmenDaily, and other industry press releases.

Impact & Next Steps

  • DEI Index Report
  • Annual Benchmarking Process

Why This is Different ?

Unlike other industry platforms, DEI Symposium is not just about discussion—it is about action and measurable impact. We are not only recognizing organizations but also creating a roadmap for continuous improvement.

The launch of India’s first DEI Index makes this initiative truly groundbreaking, providing organizations with industry-wide credibility and setting new standards for workplace inclusivity.

The DEI Symposium & DEI Index will be a transformational platform, spotlighting champions of inclusivity and driving the future of workplace diversity in India. Through knowledge-sharing, recognition, and actionable insights, we aim to build a more inclusive and equitable corporate landscape.

Let’s celebrate progress, champion change, and make DEI a defining force for the future of work in India.

Partners

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