Effectiveness of CSR Initiatives of Indian Railways during the Pandemic Period: Impact on Human Resources

Introduction; This study examines the efficacy of Indian Railways' Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programs during the COVID-19 crisis, with particular emphasis on workforce welfare and community engagement. Method; Employing a mixed-methods research design combining quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews, the investigation analyzes how strategic CSR interventions influenced employee well-being and social impact. The research reveals that targeted initiatives—including emergency medical support systems, large-scale food security programs, and comprehensive staff assistance measures—yielded substantial benefits. These efforts not only stabilized workforce morale during peak pandemic periods but also strengthened institutional credibility among served communities. Result; The findings demonstrate how public sector enterprises can leverage CSR frameworks to address simultaneous operational and humanitarian challenges during systemic crises. Conclusion; This case study offers valuable insights for organizational leaders and policymakers developing crisis-responsive CSR strategies in large-scale transportation systems, highlighting the dual importance of internal workforce support and external community engagement during emergencies.