India's Enhanced Performance in Sustainable Development Goals Index 2024

India's Sustainable Development Goals Index has shown a remarkable improvement, rising from 57 in 2018 to 71 in 2023-24. This progress is crucial for UPSC aspirants, particularly for GS Paper 2 and 3, as it reflects India's strides in social and economic development. Last Updated: 2025-03-29

Key Facts About India's Enhanced Performance in Sustainable Development Goals Index 2024

• Overall Progress: SDG index score improved from 57 (2018) to 71 (2023-24).
• Top States: Kerala and Uttarakhand achieved 8 goals each with scores above 80.
• Declines: 9 states showed setbacks in key areas like poverty and gender equality.
• SDG-3: Maternal Mortality Ratio decreased from 130 to 97 per 100,000 live births.
• SDG-4: Gross Enrolment Ratio in higher education rose from 23.7% to 28.4% (2014-2022).
• SDG-6: 95% of rural and 97.2% of urban populations have access to improved drinking water.
• SDG-7: Renewable energy capacity increased from 180.80 GW to 209.44 GW (2023-2024).
• Budget Allocations: States like Haryana and Odisha publish SDG-specific budgets.

India's Sustainable Development Journey

India's enhanced performance in the Sustainable Development Goals Index is a testament to its commitment to achieving global benchmarks. This progress aligns with India's strategic goals of economic growth, social equity, and environmental sustainability. With a focus on improving health, education, and infrastructure, India aims to climb higher in international rankings, contributing to global development standards.

Related Government Schemes/Policies

• Jal Jeevan Mission: Ensures access to safe and adequate drinking water.
• National Education Policy 2020: Aims to increase the Gross Enrolment Ratio in higher education.
• National Solar Mission: Promotes the use of solar energy to enhance renewable energy capacity.

UPSC Relevance

• GS Paper 2: Governance, Social Justice, International Relations - Focus on SDG implementation and challenges.
• GS Paper 3: Economic Development, Environment - Impact of SDGs on economic policies and environmental strategies.
• Prelims: Questions on SDG rankings, key statistics, and state performances.
• Mains: Analytical essays on India's progress towards SDGs, challenges, and policy recommendations.

FAQ Section

• What is the Sustainable Development Goals Index? The SDG Index measures a country's progress towards achieving the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals, adopted by 193 member states.
• Why is India's performance in the SDG Index important? Improved rankings indicate progress in key areas like health, education, and infrastructure, crucial for national development and global commitments.
• What are the key features of India's SDG performance? Significant improvements in maternal health, education enrolment, and access to clean water, alongside increased renewable energy capacity.