Statistical Modelling of ESG Investment and Sustainable Development in India’s Sports Sector: A Bourdieusian Approach

Abstract

This study examines how Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG)
investments influenced sustainable development in India’s sports sector before 2021. It uses
Bourdieu’s capital theory and ESG frameworks employed to study the effects of these
investments on economic, social, cultural, and symbolic capital in sports. The research relies on
secondary data from firms’ sustainability reports listed on the National Stock Exchange and on
primary survey data. The sample consisted of 200 athletes, physical education teachers, and
sports administrators, all selected through purposive sampling. A questionnaire was utilised to
assess awareness of ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) issues, environmental
sensitivity, the development of sustainable sports infrastructure, and levels of sports
participation, using a five-point Likert scale. The instrument underwent expert review and was
tested for validity. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS, with a focus on correlation and
regression methods. The results indicate that ESG investments are a strong predictor of
sustainable sports infrastructure development (β = 0.59, p < 0.01) and have a moderate impact
on sports participation (β = 0.36, p < 0.05). Additionally, environmental awareness plays a
significant role in elucidating the relationship between ESG investments and behaviour. The
study highlights the crucial role of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles in
promoting sustainability within the sports sector. It emphasises the need to integrate these
principles into India's sports governance and regulations.