In a time when India is striving for inclusive growth and sustainable development, Diageo India is emerging as a quiet yet powerful catalyst for economic and social transformation. A recent report by the Pahle India Foundation (PIF) reveals that Diageo India (operating through United Spirits Ltd) contributes approximately ₹49,000 crore to India’s GDP, directly and indirectly supporting 6.5 lakh jobs across the country.
The report highlights Diageo India’s extensive linkages across agriculture, logistics, tourism, packaging, and trade — sectors that experience significant gains in value addition and employment thanks to the company’s operations. Notably, the agriculture sector alone adds nearly ₹4,000 crore to the economy and creates employment opportunities for over 3 lakh people, many from rural India. Diageo’s localized sourcing of grains like barley and rice ensures that benefits stay within India’s domestic industries, strengthening regional economies and supporting small enterprises.
Diageo India’s impact extends beyond economic metrics into critical areas like sustainability. The company has achieved 98.6% renewable energy use, reduced Scope 1 greenhouse gas emissions by 87%, eliminated coal usage by transitioning to biomass-fueled boilers, and improved water-use efficiency — resulting in an 11% reduction in overall water withdrawal over three years.
These sustainability achievements are complemented by the company’s robust Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programs, which spend around ₹20 crore annually, impacting more than 1 lakh people through initiatives in livelihood generation, healthcare, sanitation, women’s empowerment, and access to clean water. Each beneficiary receives an estimated direct benefit of ₹6,355.
Moreover, Diageo India’s workforce stands as a testament to its employee-centric approach: over 97% of employees report high satisfaction, supported by fair wages, healthcare, leadership training, mental wellness programs, flexible working policies, and a safe, inclusive workplace. Across its 36 manufacturing facilities nationwide, the company fosters stable and fulfilling jobs for thousands.
On the fiscal side, Diageo’s total tax contribution in FY24 amounted to ₹20,417 crore, including excise duties, GST, VAT/CST, customs duties, and license fees — a crucial support for both state and central government revenues.
Thought leaders have recognized Diageo India’s unique contributions. Dr. Rajiv Kumar, Chairperson of PIF and former Vice Chairperson of NITI Aayog, stated:
“Diageo is ahead of the curve in renewables, employment generation, and manufacturing excellence. That’s exactly what India needs today.”
Echoing this sentiment, Mr. Praveen Someshwar, MD & CEO of Diageo India, said:
“We are committed to India’s journey towards Viksit Bharat. This report reflects our investments in people, partners, and national progress.”
The report, titled Economic and Social Impact Assessment of Diageo India, underscores how the company’s footprint goes far beyond alcoholic beverages — it exemplifies a model of responsible corporate behavior driving multidimensional value across economic, social, and environmental spheres.
As India charts its path to becoming a developed nation, Diageo India’s story illustrates that businesses can indeed be engines of inclusive growth and sustainability.
