The SDG (Sustainable Development Goals) India Index 2023-24, compiled by NITI Aayog, evaluates the progress of Indian states and UTs on 16 SDGs. The 17 SDGs were adopted by 193 UN member countries in 2015, encompassing three broad themes: six social goals (Goals 1-6), five economic goals (Goals 7-11), and four environmental goals (Goals 12-15). Goal 16 focuses on peaceful societies and effective institutions, while Goal 17 promotes global partnerships for development support. Goal 14 is excluded from the Composite Score as it applies only to coastal states, addressing marine resource conservation.
The Composite Score for each state and UT is derived from their goal-wise scores on the 16 SDGs, ranging from 0 to 100. Goa ranks third, significantly improving from its previous ranking and aiming to become the top performer. Goa’s success stems from integrating the SDGs into state development through institutional ownership, capacity development, and a comprehensive approach involving the whole society. Public welfare schemes are aligned with SDG targets, avoiding parallel efforts and additional costs.
India’s overall SDG Index score has risen from 57 in 2018 to 71 in 2023-24, with significant achievements in Goals 1 (No Poverty), 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), and 13 (Climate Action). Public schemes such as the Jal Jeevan Mission, National Food Security Act, Direct Benefit Transfer through PM-Jan Dhan accounts, Skill India Mission, and Ayushman Bharat have contributed to this progress. Notably, India’s electric capacity increased by 100 GW between 2017 and 2023, with 80% from non-fossil fuel sources.
Goa has been a top performer, recognized by NITI Aayog as a “front runner” in SDG achievement. In 2020-21, Goa scored 72, increasing to 77, just two points behind Uttarakhand. Goa has excelled in providing clean water, sanitation, and electricity, achieving 100% access to electricity (SDG 7). This reflects the government’s commitment to infrastructure improvement and essential services. Goa aims for 100% renewable electricity by 2050, requiring proactive planning in various sectors, including tourism, transport, health, industries, and agriculture.
The Swayampurna Goa Initiative has significantly advanced Goa’s SDG achievements by focusing on local governance, infrastructure, and social welfare through decentralized planning. Key deliverables include universal access to toilets, electricity, tap water, housing, and social security schemes, enhancing Goa’s SDG Index score.
Top-performing states are Uttarakhand and Kerala (79), followed by Tamil Nadu (78) and Goa (77). Goa’s challenges in pollution control and waste management need addressing to improve its ranking. Promoting a green economy and sustainable infrastructure through multi-stakeholder partnerships could drive sustainable economic growth and futuristic investments.
India, under the G20 presidency, has emerged as a voice for the Global South, highlighting the priorities of developing countries. India’s development agenda aligns with the SDGs, serving as a model for other nations. NITI Aayog supports SDG adoption and monitoring, promoting competitive and cooperative federalism. As India progresses towards the 2030 Agenda, it must also consider post-SDG perspectives for continued development.
[The writer is an economist and policy expert]
