In 2015, the world came together for a bold vision — one that imagined a future without poverty, hunger, inequality, or environmental degradation. The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) were born that year — 17 ambitious goals to transform our planet by 2030. Almost a decade later, how far have we come? More importantly, where does India, home to one-sixth of humanity, stand in this global journey?
Let’s dive into the story of India and the SDGs — where we started, what we’ve achieved, and what’s left to be done.
🌏 What Are the 17 SDGs?
Think of the SDGs as a global to-do list. From providing clean water and quality education to promoting sustainable cities and taking climate action — each goal addresses a critical aspect of human and planetary well-being.
Here’s a quick rundown of the 17 SDGs:
- No Poverty
- Zero Hunger
- Good Health and Well-being
- Quality Education
- Gender Equality
- Clean Water and Sanitation
- Affordable and Clean Energy
- Decent Work and Economic Growth
- Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure
- Reduced Inequality
- Sustainable Cities and Communities
- Responsible Consumption and Production
- Climate Action
- Life Below Water
- Life on Land
- Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions
- Partnerships for the Goals
📊 Where Does India Stand Today?
As of 2024, India ranks 109th out of 166 countries in the global SDG Index. That’s a jump from 121st in 2022, showing gradual but steady progress.
India’s SDG Index score (a composite of all goals) now stands at 64.0, indicating that while we’ve made gains, we still have a long way to go — especially compared to neighboring countries like Bhutan (61st) or Sri Lanka (83rd).
But rankings aside, the real story lies in how India is moving the needle on each goal — especially at the grassroots level.
🚀 India’s Growth Story: From Scores to Solutions
🔹 Then vs Now: NITI Aayog’s SDG Index
To track progress, NITI Aayog (India’s policy think tank) created its own SDG Index. The scorecard tells an encouraging tale:
- 2018: SDG score – 57
- 2020-21: SDG score – 66
- 2023-24: SDG score – 71
States like Kerala, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand consistently top the chart, while Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, and Bihar are among the most improved but still trail behind.
🌟 Bright Spots: Where India Shines
1. No Poverty (SDG 1)
Massive poverty reduction efforts through MGNREGA, rural job schemes, and direct benefit transfers helped push the score to 72. India also lifted 415 million people out of poverty between 2005 and 2021 — a phenomenal feat.
2. Clean Water & Sanitation (SDG 6)
Thanks to Jal Jeevan Mission and Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, access to drinking water and sanitation has shot up to near-universal levels in many states. The SDG score here stands strong at 89.
3. Affordable Clean Energy (SDG 7)
India has scaled solar and renewable energy dramatically. Electrification, LPG access, and clean cooking fuel programs have improved energy access for millions. Current SDG score: 96.
4. Climate Action (SDG 13)
India is one of the few countries on track to meet its Paris climate goals. The share of renewable energy in power generation is around 43%, and compliance with emission norms is improving steadily.
⚠️ Areas That Need Urgent Attention
1. Gender Equality (SDG 5)
India’s weakest performer. Gender-based violence, workforce gaps, and child marriage continue to pull the score down to 49. Change here will require not just laws, but a societal shift.
2. Life Below Water & Life on Land (SDGs 14 & 15)
While forest cover has improved, marine and biodiversity goals still lag behind. Overfishing, pollution, and lack of enforcement hurt these scores.
3. Peace, Justice & Institutions (SDG 16)
Issues like undertrial populations, access to justice, and transparency still need work. Institutions must become more people-centric and accountable.
🗺️ State-wise Leaders and Laggards
Top performers:
- Kerala – Known for its health and education systems
- Himachal Pradesh – Strong on climate and water
- Chandigarh & Uttarakhand – Leading in multiple goals
Most improved:
- Uttar Pradesh – +25 points since 2020
- Jammu & Kashmir, Sikkim, Uttarakhand – Strong upward trends
Need more push:
- Bihar, Jharkhand, Arunachal Pradesh – Still behind on key indicators
🔄 The Road Ahead: Challenges and Opportunities
India’s journey with the SDGs reflects a mix of progress, policy innovation, and persistent challenges. While we’ve seen success with poverty reduction, energy, and sanitation, the gaps in gender equality, environmental sustainability, and institutional reform are stark reminders that the work is far from over.
So, what’s next?
- Targeted state-level strategies to lift lagging regions
- Community participation — from panchayats to youth-led startups
- More data transparency to track real-time progress
- Stronger partnerships with civil society and private players
💬 Final Thoughts
The SDGs aren’t just policy buzzwords — they’re about everyday lives. From the quality of your tap water to the education your child receives or the cleanliness of the air you breathe, these goals touch everything.
India’s story is still being written — and while the last decade has brought us closer, the real test lies in the years leading up to 2030. With a focused push, inclusive policies, and the will to act — we can still get there.
Because when India moves forward, the world moves with it.
Reference: https://sdgs.un.org/goals
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