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Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions
Rajnish Raj

RTI: Unveiling governance Strengthening Democracy

RTI: Unveiling Governance and Strengthening Democracy   Abstract Explore the critical role of the Right to Information (RTI) Act as a pillar of democracy, enhancing transparency and accountability in governance worldwide. This paper examines historical and contemporary frameworks across various countries, highlighting how RTI fosters citizen empowerment and reinforces democratic principles. Learn about its impact on civil society and media, alongside key challenges and case studies that underscore the need for effective information access in promoting just and inclusive governance. Introduction In contemporary governance, RTI (Right to Information) and democracy are foundational elements that promote transparency, accountability, and citizen empowerment. A thriving democracy relies on active citizen participation, ensuring that diverse voices contribute to decision-making processes. The RTI, as a fundamental right, grants individual success to information held by public authorities, cultivating a culture of openness and trust. This dynamic interplay not only facilitates equitable power distribution but also ensures that governance is reflective of and responsive to community needs. The evolution of RTI legislation globally underscores a commitment to these democratic principles, beginning with Sweden’s groundbreaking Freedom of Information Act in 1766 and extending to contemporary frameworks in numerous nations. This paper will explore various RTI frameworks, assess their impact on democratic governance, and address the challenges and future directions for this essential right. By highlighting the significance of RTI, we can better understand its critical role in strengthening democracy, enhancing media accountability, and combating corruption in our increasingly complex societies. Through these lenses, the importance of public interest and the role of civil society in promoting transparency will be examined.   Global Perspectives on the Right to Information The development of RTI legislation has been instrumental in promoting transparency across different countries: The evolution of Right to Information (RTI) legislation has played a pivotal role in unveiling governance and reinforcing democracy across the globe. Sweden’s Freedom of Information Act, established in 1766, set a foundational standard for public access to government documents. France’s Constitution, through Article 14 , emphasizes citizens’ rights to vital information, promoting accountability. The UK’s 2005 Freedom of Information Act built upon historical frameworks, supported by significant court cases that affirmed the necessity of information access. In the United States, the Administrative Procedure Act of 1946, along with key Supreme Court decisions, highlights the importance of transparency (United Kingdom. (2005). Additionally, the UN’s 1946 resolution recognizes RTI as a fundamental human right integral to democratic principles (United Nations General Assembly). The Right to Information in India In India, the journey toward RTI has been pivotal in enhancing democratic governance. Key milestones include: The journey toward the Right to Information (RTI) in India has been essential for enhancing democratic governance. Significant milestones include the Supreme Court ruling in UP v. Raj Narain (1975), which affirmed that transparency is vital for democracy. This landmark decision established that the right to information is implicit in the right to free speech, thereby bolstering citizens’ rights. In 1990, the Shourie Committee was formed to shape RTI legislation, emphasizing information as a public good. Its recommendations laid the groundwork for the RTI Act, which was enacted in 2005. The RTI Act embodies principles of transparency and accountability, empowering citizens to question and oversee governance, significantly improving citizen engagement and reducing corruption. Additionally, civil society initiatives, particularly by organizations like the Mazdoor Kisan Shakti Sangathan (MKSS)  have played a crucial role in advocating for RTI. Their grassroots efforts mobilized communities and raised awareness about the importance of information access, ensuring the effective implementation of the RTI Act and empowering citizens to exercise their rights. Impact of the Right to Information The implementation of RTI has far-reaching effects on Democratic governance: Empowerment of Citizens: The Right to Information (RTI) empowers citizens by granting access to vital information, enabling them to challenge injustices and hold officials accountable (Lopez, 2022). This empowerment is essential for a vibrant democracy where informed citizens actively participate. Lamont v. Postmaster General, 381 U.S. 301 (1965).  Stanley v. Georgia, 394 U.S. 557 (1969).  RTI also promotes transparency, acting as a deterrent to corruption. When public officials know their actions are subject to scrutiny, they are more likely to uphold ethical standards (Smith & Green, 2021). Furthermore, RTI fosters civic engagement, allowing informed citizens to influence policymaking, ensuring that government actions reflect public interests (Jones, 2023). However, challenges remain, such as bureaucratic resistance and lack of awareness among citizens regarding their rights. Political interference can also hinder effective implementation. Addressing these issues through awareness campaigns and robust legal frameworks is vital for maximizing the potential of RTI, thereby strengthening democracy and promoting accountability. Literature Review The Right to Information (RTI) is pivotal in enhancing democratic governance through transparency and accountability. Priya Sharma (2019) emphasizes that RTI empowers citizens, enabling them to hold public officials accountable and participate actively in governance. This sentiment is supported by Meera Patel (2021), who argues that access to information strengthens democratic values. However, challenges persist. Sunil Gupta (2020)  highlights bureaucratic resistance as a significant barrier to effective RTI implementation, while Rina Desai (2022) warns of political interference undermining transparency efforts. Despite these obstacles, Lakshmi Rao (2023)  presents a more optimistic view, illustrating how RTI has led to tangible improvements in governance, particularly in India, through landmark cases that combat corruption. The role of civil society is crucial in advocating for RTI. Anil Kumar (2021) notes that organizations like the Mazdoor Kisan Shakti Sangathan (MKSS) mobilize communities, raising awareness about information access. This grassroots activism demonstrates the vital link between RTI and civic engagement. The literature presents a balanced view of RTI, showcasing its potential to transform governance while acknowledging the challenges that must be addressed for its effective implementation. Future Directions To address these challenges, future efforts must focus on: Enhancing Awareness: Public education campaigns are essential to inform citizens about their rights under RTI, empowering them to seek information Strengthening Legal Frameworks: Continuous refinement of legal provisions can help address loopholes and ensure more robust protection of Encouraging Civic Participation: Building networks among civil society organizations

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February 19, 2025 No Comments
Decent Work and Economic Growth
Rashi Fouzdar

Singapore: From Shambles to Success

This article analyzes Singapore’s development journey.  Singapore, a small island in Southeast Asia, has made strides in economic growth. It tops various world rankings in terms of human development, education, livability, and more. It serves as a case study for developing countries with limited resources.

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February 19, 2025 No Comments
Quality Education
Shristi Bhattacharjee

Education for All ; understanding the role of SDG 4 in improving education around the world

Education for All ; understanding the role of SDG 4 in improving education around the world Education is something that is a birth right of every child. It’s education that carries the utmost importance in one’s life and enables them to live freely in the world. It is the key to a better life. Sustainable Development Goal 4 or SDG 4 helps the world by making education more accessible and making the world a better place. Even though the progress is not fast enough and 58% of the population has access to good education, United Nations strives to improve it by 2030.There targets are as follows:- Target 4.1: Completion rates in primary and lower secondary level education continue on an upward curve while the percentage of young people completing upper secondary school increased from 53% in 2015 to 59% in 2023. This increase, however, is at a slower pace relative to progress in the preceding eight[1]year period and such improvements do not always result in positive learning outcomes. Between 2018 and 2022, based on learning outcomes at the end of lower secondary school across 81 OECD and partner countries, mean performance in mathematics fell by a record 15 points while in reading fell 10 points. However, reading and mathematics scores had been declining for these countries prior to 2015, suggesting that COVID-19 explains only part of the decline. A complex set of factors affect the education systems of upper-middle[1]income and high-income countries.  Target 4.2: Data from 76 mainly low- and middle-income countries from 2015 to 2023 shows that approximately two-thirds of young children are developmentally on track, with no significant gender differences. However, there are wide variations among countries and regions. In 2022, globally, 7 out of 10 children participated in organized learning one year before reaching official primary school age. Despite a 1.5 percentage point decline during the COVID-19 pandemic, participation levels have started to recover and return to pre-pandemic levels.  Target 4.3: In countries with recent data, around one-sixth of individuals aged 15-64 have participated in education and training. Participation is significantly higher among youth aged 15-24 compared to those aged 24-55, with an average participation rate of nearly 50% across most regions. However, less than 3% of older adults aged 25-55 engage in education and training in most regions.  Target 4.5: Socioeconomic disparities are prevalent in education, affecting various indicators. Global and regional parity ratios may hide gender inequalities within countries, disadvantaging either girls or boys. Disparities based on location or household wealth are more pronounced, with rural or less affluent families facing greater challenges. These gaps widen at higher education levels, leading to increased dropout rates and fewer opportunities for those from disadvantaged backgrounds.  Target 4.a: Only half of all primary schools have the basic infrastructures and materials to provide an adequate schooling experience to pupils with disabilities and one in five primary schools globally does not have single-sex sanitation facilities. On average, 44% of primary schools, 56% of lower secondary schools and 69% of upper secondary schools had access to Internet in 2022, almost double the rates in 2021. At the upper secondary level, 91% of schools have access to electricity, 81% have computers for pedagogical use and 69% of schools are connected to the internet. Impact and Improvements -: Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4), focused on ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education and promoting lifelong learning, has played a significant role in the improvement of global education systems. It represents a shift from previous global education frameworks by broadening the scope of education targets to cover pre-primary, primary, secondary, and higher education, as well as vocational and adult education, addressing not only basic literacy and numeracy but also global citizenship, sustainability, and gender equality. SDG 4’s comprehensive approach to quality education has influenced policies globally, emphasizing equality and lifelong learning as key elements to promote social inclusion and reduce inequalities (Unterhalter, E. 2019).One of the primary impacts of SDG 4 has been the establishment of measurable targets, such as ensuring free and equitable primary and secondary education for all children and the elimination of gender disparities in education. These targets have encouraged governments to prioritize education reforms, leading to improved access to education, particularly for disadvantaged groups, including women, children with disabilities, and marginalized communities(Boeren, E ,2019).However, the success of SDG 4 has been mixed. While global enrolment in primary education has increased, significant challenges remain in terms of quality, equity, and inclusivity. Many countries still struggle with issues such as teacher shortages, insufficient infrastructure, and lack of access to digital learning tools, particularly in rural areas.SDG 4 also addresses the content of education, promoting skills for sustainable development, human rights, and peacebuilding.This holistic approach has fostered educational practices that go beyond traditional rote learning, encouraging critical thinking, collaboration, and global awareness. The integration of information and communication technology (ICT) in education, for example, has emerged as a key strategy for enhancing learning outcomes, especially in remote or underserved regions. Additionally, SDG 4 has created opportunities for international collaboration and partnerships in education, as seen through initiatives that bring together governments, private sectors, and civil society organizations to share best practices and resources (Saini, M., Sengupta, E., Singh, M., Singh, H., & Singh, J 2023) Improvement in Women’s Education -:  Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4) has played a critical role in improving women’s education by focusing on eliminating gender disparities and providing equal access to quality education at all levels. It has enabled global efforts to ensure that women and girls receive the education necessary to participate fully in economic, political, and social spheres. Despite some progress, significant challenges remain, particularly in regions where traditional gender roles, poverty, and social norms hinder access to education for women and girls. One of the most significant impacts of SDG 4 has been in increasing literacy rates among women. Literacy is closely linked to better employment opportunities, higher income, and greater social and political participation. It also has instrumental value, as maternal literacy correlates

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February 19, 2025 No Comments
Public Policies
Leeza Lowanshi

Evolution of Labour Law in India

Understanding Labour Law: A Quick Guide Labour law, commonly known as employment law, is a set of laws governing the rights and obligations of employees, employers, and trade unions. It covers a wide range of topics, including employment terms, which range of topics, including employment terms.[1], which include hiring practices, contracts, job descriptions, and termination procedures. Working conditions, which establish guidelines for health, safety, and welfare at work. Wages and Benefits, which control minimum wage, Overtime pay, and other forms of compensation. Trade unions, provide guidelines for the creation and operation of these organizations. And Industrial relations, which offers channels for resolving conflicts between employers and employees. To guarantee fair treatment and shield workers from exploitation, labour laws seek to balance the power relations between employers and employees. [2][3] 1.     From Colonial Roots to Modern Safeguards: The Evolution and Impact of Labour Laws in India[4] India’s labour laws, which have their origins in the nation’s colonial past, are intended to uphold equitable labour practices and safeguard workers’ rights. Major laws like the Factories Act of 1881, which regulated working conditions, child Labour, and safety requirements, set the groundwork during the British administration. The Indian Constitution of 1950 played a pivotal role in creating Labour rights, and the country’s Labour laws were greatly strengthened after independence.[5][6] The dedication to social justice and economic stability for workers has been strengthened over time by the enactment of laws like the Industrial Disputes Act of 1947, and the Minimum Wages Act of 1948, the Employees’ Provident Funds and Miscellaneous Provisions Act of 1952.[7][8] These rules are enforced by Labour agencies of the federal and state governments, whose inspectors frequently visit workplaces to verify wages and safety. Fair treatment and improved working conditions are negotiated by trade unions, while disagreements between companies and employees are resolved by special courts and tribunals.[9] To make sure that everyone is aware of the laws, government organizations and non-governmental organizations also provide programs that teach employers and employees about their rights and obligations.[10] A balanced work environment is essential for the welfare of employees as well as the social and economic development of the nation, and the court is a key player in interpreting these regulations.[11] 2.     Why We Need Labour Law: There are multiple reasons why labour laws are essential some of them are[12]– Worker protection ensures fair wages, safe working conditions, and acceptable hours. This makes it harder for employers to abuse or take advantage of their employees. Labour laws ensure social fairness by protecting disadvantaged workers from discrimination and unjust treatment. This protects their rights, which lessens inequity. Effective labour laws promote workplace harmony by resolving disputes between employers and employees. This avoids disputes that might disrupt business operations. Labour laws provide clear rules for employers to recognize their responsibilities to their employees. This knowledge can enhance workplace relations and lessen legal problems. -To ensure that workers are not placed in hazardous situations and that their health and safety are given first priority, it is critical to establish clear standards for workplace safety and health.[13] o   The Benefits of Labour Laws: –   Fair Treatment: Labour laws protect workers from exploitation by ensuring that they receive fair compensation, have reasonable working hours, and are employed in safe environments.[14][15] – Economic Stability: Labour laws promote economic growth and stability by developing an employee base that is inspired and efficient. – Social Justice: By safeguarding disadvantaged workers, these rules lessen inequality and guarantee equitable treatment for people from all backgrounds. – Industrial Harmony: By preserving harmony between employers and employees, conflict resolution procedures contribute to the smooth operation of the economy. – Clear Guidelines for Employers: Labour laws give a framework for employers to avoid legal conflicts and promote positive working relations.[16] Workplace Health and Safety: Labour laws provide standards that protect employees’ health and well-being by preventing illnesses and accidents at work. – Overall Development: Labour laws provide a balanced and equitable working environment, which helps a country’s economic and social advancement.[17] o   Misuse of labour Laws: –   False Claims: Workers may file unfounded claims against employers, leading to unnecessary legal battles and financial strain on businesses. –   Excessive Regulation: Over-regulation can overwhelm employers, particularly small businesses, hindering growth and innovation. –   Corruption: Corrupt practices within enforcement agencies can result in biased decisions, leading to unfair treatment and demands for bribes. –   Union Misuse: Trade unions may exert undue pressure on employers, making unreasonable demands that can disrupt business operations and cause economic losses. –   Delays in Dispute Resolution: Slow legal processes in labour disputes can create prolonged uncertainty, which can be exploited to delay justice.[18][19][20] Case Laws- SAIL v. National Union Waterfront Workers[21] Facts: The Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL) employed outside contractors to manage the inventory in their stockyards. This approach was contested by the labour union National Union Waterfront Workers, who said that using contract labour was exploitative. They insisted on regular employment inside SAIL for contract workers. Issue: whether contract workers should be automatically converted into regular SAIL employees when contract labour is ended under Section 10 of the CLRA Act. Judgment: On August 30, 2001, the Supreme Court of India rendered its decision. When contract labour is eliminated, contract workers do not immediately become regular employees of the major employer (SAIL). There is no legal requirement for automatic absorption. The competent authorities will decide whether or not to outlaw contract labour. Based on the requirements outlined in Section 10 of the CLRA Act, this determination must be made. There must be a direct employer-employee relationship with the major employer for contract workers to be regularized. In this case, no such relationship was found. Hindustan Aeronautics Limited v. Workmen[22] Facts: Under Section 10(1) of the Industrial Disputes Act, 1947, the West Bengal government referred five relevant concerns to the Industrial Tribunal during the dispute. Three of these concerns were resolved by the Tribunal. The Central Government or the State Government of Karnataka, according to HAL, should have the rightful jurisdiction to refer the

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February 19, 2025 No Comments
Good Health and Well-being
Rishita Bahuguna

RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN MIND AND  HEALTH

RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN MIND AND  HEALTH We have often heard stress can cause weight gain, stress can cause acne, stress affects a female’s menstrual cycle and so on. It is established that the mental state and physical health of a person are affected by one another. But in this article we shall dive deeper to understand how that works.  What is health? The World Health Organization or WHO defines health as “ a state of complete physical, mental, social well being and not merely the absence of disease and infirmity.”  WHO (World Health Organisation) states that, not having a disease or illness is not the only criterion to classify one as healthy or unhealthy, one must also be in a state of being physically, mentally and socially fit.  It further defines health as a dynamic state that is it keeps changing and is not always constant for anyone.  Dimensions of health Health is multidimensional which means it has many components to it. In order to be healthy one must be fit in all dimensions of health. Following are some dimensions of health:  Physical health – It includes absence of any external injuries, chronic diseases as well as a fit body. Physical health is taken care of by doing regular exercise, taking proper diet and having proper sleep.  Mental health – It includes having normal functioning cognition, ability to regulate thoughts and absence of mental disorders, excessive negative and distorted thoughts, etc.  Emotional health – It includes having the ability to understand one’s emotions and feelings and being able to control them rather than being controlled by them. It also means absence of psychological disorders and excessive or prolonged stress, etc.  Social health –  It includes having the ability to make and maintain social relationships and having basic social skills required to function in society, like communication skills, social behaviour, conflict resolution etc.  Spiritual health – It includes having a sense of meaning and purpose in life and hence motivation to live. It also includes having an identity of own. People lacking identity face existential crisis.  Vocational health – It includes having a healthy attitude towards work that is having ambitions, motivation to work, career choice and satisfaction and good performance.  Interdependence of dimensions of health All the dimensions of health are interconnected. This is a very crucial fact. As if one suffers in a particular dimension of health the other dimensions will also be affected. For example a socially unfit person may also suffer emotionally due to lack of meaningful relationships. This will in turn affect their spiritual, physical and mental health which may further affect vocational health as well.  Therefore mental health and physical health are connected, making sense why stress causes so many physical health related issues.  Psychoneuroimmunology Psychoneuroimmunology is a study dealing with the role of psychological processes and neurological processes in immunity.  Immunity refers to an organism’s capacity to fight against foreign agents (antigens), or germs when they enter the organism’s body and help heal wounds and infections. Immune system of an organism consists of cells, proteins produced by these cells, and organs.  Hence for a healthy, strong body good immunity is essential.  According to psychoneuroimmunology, a person’s mind (emotions, thoughts etc) can influence their immunity.  Understanding nervous system :  CNS or Central Nervous system consists of the brain and spinal cord. It controls everything in our body. It is responsible for maintaining homeostasis (internal balance) in the body by regulating temperature, blood pressure, heart rate etc. To do so the endocrine system and CNS need to communicate. Endocrine system consists of ductless glands that produce hormones (chemicals) and directly release it into the bloodstream.  The body and brain communicate with each other through electrical and chemical signals or messages. The brain sends electrical and chemical signals through neurons. The electrical signals move forward in a neuron and from one neuron to another due to electrical and chemical gradients present between the intracellular region and extracellular region of the neuron. This depolarizes (changes the intracellular region of the neuron’s charge from negative to positive) the region in the neuron (axon). When the electrical signal reaches the end of a neuron, neurotransmitters are released by synaptic knobs of the neuron. These are chemical messengers. They are the ones that carry signals to muscles, glands or other neurons and make communication possible.  Understanding immune system  :  The immune system attacks any foreign agent that it doesn’t identify as its own and starts to kill it to avoid any harm to the body. But the immune system sometimes also attacks unharmful agents as well like in case of allergies and also with transplants and sometimes it could be overactive causing autoimmune diseases which are dangerous.  So whenever a foreign agent enters the body and comes in contact with an immune cell, it attaches with its receptors which induce changes in the cell. When the foreign agent attaches to immune cells that are cytokine producing cells, cytokines will be produced. Cytokines are proteins responsible for starting and stopping inflammation and bind with receptors of other cells and help in cell proliferation, direct immune cells to the site of infection, direct immune cells to produce antibodies to kill the pathogen and they also store this memory about the pathogen and how to kill it, so that if it enters the body again shortly, the body can kill it and this time it is quicker to respond.  Understanding connection between immune system, endocrine system and nervous system: The interaction between the Endocrine, immune, and nervous system is called the immune neuroendocrine network. The brain can control the immune system through the neuroendocrine network or by the autonomic nervous system which produces chemicals which bind to immune cells, similarly the immune system can communicate with the brain by using its chemical messengers (Ader, 2001). The chemical messengers used by the immune system to communicate with the brain are cytokines – when cytokines reach the brain, they are able to signal the brain that

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February 19, 2025 No Comments
Public Policies
Belal Ahmad

Book review – “Caste Matters in Public Policy”, by Belal Ahmad

The book review by Belal Ahmad critically examines Caste Matters in Public Policy, edited by Rahul Choragudi, Sony Pellissery, and N. Jayaram. This book explores how caste influences public policy in India, emphasizing its resilience and transformation over time. Originating from a seminar on caste and contemporary public policy, the book includes contributions from 13 authors across 10 chapters, divided into three thematic parts.

Key topics discussed include the historical evolution of caste-based policies, challenges of caste enumeration, affirmative action, and the dynamics of caste in different Indian states and religious communities. The book also highlights caste hierarchies within non-Hindu religions and examines caste’s persistence in shaping Indian society and governance. The epilogue provides a framework for integrating caste analysis into public policy to address socio-cultural realities.
Ahmad provides a detailed overview, noting the book’s depth in addressing caste as a pervasive societal force but also pointing out areas needing further exploration

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February 17, 2025 1 Comment
Public Policies
MUSKAN JAISWAL

DECODING SDG LOCALIZATION IN SELECTED STATES

DECODING SDG LOCALIZATION IN SELECTED STATES Shravani Thota, Muskan Jaiswal, Rishabh Dev Bhardwaj, Avika Kamboj, Rajlakshmi Anand Keywords: Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs); Localization; Global Indicator Framework (GIF); National Indicator Framework (NIF); NITI Aayog; MoSPI; Scheme; Policy; Delhi; Telangana; Uttar Pradesh; West Bengal. On 25th September (2015), the UNGA adopted the document titled “Transforming our World: The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development”, comprising 17 SDGs and 169 targets. This stands as the de-facto international obligatory cornerstone for the sustainable ‘one earth, one future’ solution, where countries are expected to reorient their domestic spending priorities. At the global level, the United Nations Statistical Commission (UNSC) established the Inter-agency and Expert Group (IAEG) to devise and monitor the Global Indicator Framework (GIF). Accordingly, in sync with GIF, the Indian Ministry of Statistics and Policy Implementation (MoSPI) has developed the National Indicator Framework (NIF), to monitor the progress of the SDGs realization at the national level. Following the row, the States/UTs are processing with their tailored sub-national monitoring operation, i.e. the State Indicator Framework (SIF) and District Indicator Framework (DIF). As per the Indian model of SDG localization promoted by NITI Aayog, the progress of States and Union Territories (UTs) as of 2024 is outlined in the tabular data (Fig. NITI Aayog, 2024). Here, the selection criterion for inclusion of Indicators in NIF includes – ‘relevance to SDG targets, ‘national priorities’, ‘data availability’, and ‘policy significance’. For each indicator, the NIF specifies data sources and periodicity. These data sources include official government statistics from various surveys, administrative data, and censuses. Responsibility for data collection and reporting rests with the concerned line Ministries and Departments. NIF is evolving in nature like the GIF. Consequently, the GOI has established a High-level Steering Committee (HLSC) on SDGs under the Chairmanship of the Chief Statistician of India (CSI) and Secretary, MoSPI to review and refine the NIF periodically. This Committee comprises members from NITI Aayog, MHA, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, MoEFCC, Ministry of Finance, and the MoSPI.  Area Parameter No. of States Completed (Out of 28) No. of UTs Completed (Out of 8) Vision/Roadmap SDG vision document 23 4 Coordination Mapping of SDG targets with schemes and departments 25 3   Mechanism for coordination with line departments at the State level 26 6   Formation of Working Groups/Committees/Task Forces 24 5 Monitoring and Reporting SDG cell/centre/team at the State level 25 1   State Indicator Framework 16 1   District Indicator Framework 6 1   Block Indicator Framework 6 1   Dashboard developed 16 1 Budgeting SDGs linked to budget allocation 11 1 Capacity Building Capacity building/training of officials 24 1   Involvement of CSOs/CSR in awareness generation and capacity building 15 2 In the recently released NITI Aayog SDG India Index 2023-24, the overall SDG score for the country stands at 71, a significant improvement from 66 in 2020-21 and 57 in 2018 (Baseline Report), here all the state’s scores have improved. Following are the selected states’ composite scores – i.) Delhi- 70; ii.) Telangana: 74; iii.) Uttar Pradesh: 67; iv.) West Bengal: 70. Delhi (A.) Profile: Officially known as the National Capital Territory (NCT) of Delhi, is India’s capital and one of its most populous urban centers. According to the 2011 Census, Delhi had a population of 16,787,941. The NCT covers an area of 1,483 square kilometers and comprises 11 districts, 3 municipal corporations, and 272 municipal wards. Additionally, it has 1,799 urbanized villages and several gram panchayats under its administrative framework (Government of NCT of Delhi, n.d.). (B.) Institutional framework for SDGs Monitoring/Coordination: The Planning Department has been designated as the nodal authority for SDGs, with its Director serving as the Nodal Officer. The Delhi Vision 2030 document has been developed to align the city’s developmental strategies with the SDGs. More than 1,500 unique and SMART indicators have been mapped to various schemes and programs, ensuring a structured approach toward sustainable development. The framework includes 15 goals and 264 indicators to monitor and track progress (Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation, 2022). Delhi has also established a digital infrastructure for real-time SDG tracking and monitoring. The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI), in collaboration with the United Nations Regional Coordinator Office, has launched an SDG Dashboard to facilitate real-time data visualization and progress reporting. Various IT applications have been developed to enhance outcome-based budgeting linked to SDG objectives. The Planning Department ensures the effective integration of SDGs across government departments, aligning the region’s policies with the National Indicator Framework (Government of NCT of Delhi, n.d.). (C.) SDG-wise Existing Schemes – SDG 1: The Mukhyamantri Covid-19 Pariwar Arthik Sahayata Yojana. SDG 2: Zero HungerThe Mid-Day Meal Scheme ensures nutrition for school children, while initiatives under the Department of Women and Child Development support nutrition for children under six and pregnant/lactating mothers. SDG 3: Aam Aadmi Mohalla Clinics provide accessible primary healthcare services, improving overall health outcomes. SDG 4: The Chunauti Initiative focuses on improving learning outcomes in government schools, ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education. SDG 5: The Ladli Scheme offers financial assistance to girl children from economically weaker sections, promoting their education and empowerment. SDG 6: Projects under the Delhi Jal Board aim to provide clean drinking water and improve sanitation infrastructure. SDG 7: The Delhi Solar Policy encourages the adoption of solar energy, promoting sustainable energy solutions. SDG 8: The Rozgar Bazaar Portal connects job seekers with employers, fostering economic growth and employment generation. SDG 9: The Delhi Startup Policy supports innovation and entrepreneurship, providing a conducive startup ecosystem. SDG 11: The Mukhyamantri Awas Yojana focuses on providing affordable housing to economically weaker sections, ensuring sustainable urban development. SDG 13: The Odd-Even Traffic Scheme aims to reduce vehicular pollution, contributing to climate action efforts. SDG 16: The Delhi Commission for Women works toward preventing harassment and violence against women through dedicated law enforcement initiatives. These initiatives reflect Delhi’s commitment to localizing SDGs and achieving sustainable development across various sectors. Telangana (A.) Profile: Telangana has 33 districts and a population of

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February 16, 2025 No Comments