Vrina, a Senior Company Secretary, is a seasoned professional and is part of Board of Directors of many listed companies. Vrina has philanthropic interests and is part of CSR activities of few such companies. She was inv

Vrina, a Senior Company Secretary, is a seasoned professional and is part of Board of Directors of many listed companies. Vrina has philanthropic interests and is part of CSR activities of few such companies. She was invited to be a Panel member for 'CSR & Social Impact Conclave', wherein she was addressing a gathering of professionals across industry on the emerging concepts like social governance, social stock exchanges, its framework, etc. Excerpts from her address - "The idea of a Social Stock Exchange (SSE) in India was first proposed by the finance minister in the Union Budget 2019-20. The objective was to create a dedicated platform under SEBI where non-profit organizations (NPOs) and for-profit social enterprises (FPEs) could raise funds transparently and efficiently. Unlike traditional stock exchanges that cater to wealth maximization, SSEs focus on social impact, accountability, and sustainability, enabling investors to support initiatives aligned with societal development. To implement this vision, SEBI introduced a framework under two major regulatory guidelines: ICDR Regulations (Issue of Capital and Disclosure Requirements, 2018) and LODR Regulations (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements, 2015). Together, these provide a structured pathway for social enterprises to list, disclose and report their activities. The ICDR framework was amended to include specific norms for social enterprises intending to raise funds through SSE. These enterprises must establish a clear social intent and impact, with focus areas such as eradicating hunger, promoting education, healthcare, environment sustainability, gender equality and rural development. For non-profits, the ICDR regulations allow them to raise securities, which are unique and represent social investments. The regulations also require annual impact reports, certified by social auditors, which document the outcomes of funds raised. This ensures that every rupee mobilized translates into visible progress toward Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The LODR framework was extended to SSE listings to strengthen transparency and trust. Under these rules, listed social enterprises must comply with periodic disclosures, including governance practices, financial statements, utilization of funds and social impact reports and are different from commercial entities. One unique feature is the requirement of a Social Impact Scorecard, a reporting mechanism that ensures stakeholders can measure how effectively the enterprise achieves its stated objectives. Additionally, SSE listed entities must appoint a Social Auditor from SEBI registered institutions. The establishment of a Social Stock Exchange under ICDR and LODR regulations marks a milestone in institutionalizing social finance in India. By bringing transparency, accountability and innovation into social funding, SSE can help achieve India's developmental priorities and SDGs. However, its success will depend on effective implementation, investor participation and building the capacities of smaller social enterprises to comply with regulations." Based on the above, answer the following questions: 'Social enterprise may raise funds through various means.' Explain with reference to SEBI (ICDR) Regulations.