Bringing together under one roof all stakeholders-industry, NGOs and government-the summit will not only serve as a platform for creating more awareness about corporate social responsibility, but also seek to bring in more clarity in the industry's role in this critical area in the new economy, says Mr S Sen, deputy director-general, CII.

Elaborates Mr Sen: ``The summit is important particularly since a paradigm shift is taking place in the thinking of corporates from philanthropy to corporate social responsibility. They realise that they cannot isolate themselves from the surroundings. They need to participate in the community development, which is in their own interest in the longer run. Of course, the industry cannot take on the role of the government. It's only a supplementary role.''

The summit is expected to come up with an action plan for the industry in the near future, particularly in the areas like population and health, literacy, education and community development. The experience sharing between the industry, NGOs and government will also help in identifying new areas of partnership in pursuing that action plan. For example, the expertise of businesses can be leveraged in the management of projects.

Similarly, a partnership between the industry and NGOs is desirable, points out Mr Sen. ``Corporates would prefer to partner with NGOs, which are credible, accountable and transparent, though.''

The summit will be inaugurated by Ms Najma Heptullah, deputy chairperson, Rajya Sabha, and attended by Mr M Venkiah Naidu, minister for Rural Development; Dr Nina Puri, president of Family Planning Association of India; Ms Mary Richardson, chief executive, HSBC Education Trust; Mr M V Subbiah, executive chairman, EID Parry (India), and Mr Arun Bharat Ram, president, amongst others.