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. 

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 35,003,674, according to the 2011 Census. The state comprises 13 municipal corporations, 129 municipalities, and 12,769 gram panchayats (Government of Telangana, n.d.). (B.) Institutional framework for SDGs Monitoring/Coordination: For capacity building, Telangana has established the Centre for SDGs at Dr. Marri Channa Reddy Human Resource Development Institute of Telangana (MCRHRDIT) to generate awareness and build capacity related to SDGs. An e-learning module has been developed to raise awareness about SDGs within the state and is disseminated through the Telangana e-Learning Application Management System (TeAMS). The Planning Department, Government of Telangana, has been designated as the nodal authority for SDGs, with its Director serving as the Nodal Officer. Following national guidelines, the Telangana government released a Vision Document aligning with the state’s vision of “Bangaru Telangana,” which emphasizes comprehensive, inclusive, and holistic development. The state has completed the mapping of SDGs with various departments and flagship programs. The Telangana State Development Planning Society (TSDPS) has developed a monitoring framework for SDG-related indicators. It tracks the progress of different government departments, assists in conducting surveys, and facilitates the publication of reports related to SDGs. (C.) Existing Schemes/ Policies: SDG 1 (No Poverty) – Aasara Pensions provide financial assistance to vulnerable groups like widows, disabled individuals, and the elderly. SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) – Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) ensures nutrition, healthcare, and preschool education for children under six and pregnant/lactating mothers. SDG 3 (Good Health & Well-being) – Aarogya Lakshmi provides nutritious meals to pregnant and lactating mothers. SDG 5 (Gender Equality) – Kalyan Lakshmi & Shaadi Mubarak offer financial assistance for the marriage of women from economically weaker sections. SDG 6 (Clean Water & Sanitation) – Mission Bhageeratha ensures safe drinking water for every household. SDG 7 (Affordable & Clean Energy) – Solar Pump-sets & Renewable Energy Promotion encourages the use of solar energy. SDG 8 (Decent Work & Economic Growth) – Industries & Incentives for Industrial Promotion foster employment and industrial growth. SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation & Infrastructure) – TS-iPASS (Telangana State Industrial Project Approval and Self-Certification System) promotes ease of doing business and industrial approvals. SDG 13 (Climate Action) – Haritha Haram is a large-scale afforestation program aimed at improving green cover and combating climate change. SDG 16 (Peace, Justice & Strong Institutions) – SHE Teams work to prevent harassment and violence against women through dedicated law enforcement initiatives.

Uttar Pradesh

(A.) Profile: India’s most populous state, with a population of 199,812,341 as per the 2011 Census. Covering an area of 243,286 square kilometers, UP comprises 75 districts, 18 divisions, and 822 blocks. It has a complex administrative structure, including 17 municipal corporations, 200 municipal councils, and over 59,000 gram panchayats, making SDG implementation a multi-tiered governance challenge (Government of Uttar Pradesh, n.d.). (B.) Institutional Framework for SDG Monitoring/ Coordination: To ensure effective SDG implementation, the Government of Uttar Pradesh has designated the Planning Department as the nodal agency for SDG localization. The department oversees the integration of SDGs into state policies and schemes, ensuring alignment with the National Indicator Framework (NIF). Uttar Pradesh has developed its Vision 2030 document, outlining state-specific strategies to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). A robust framework with 16 goals and 280 indicators has been established to track progress across various sectors. The state government has mapped over 1,800 SMART indicators to existing welfare schemes and development programs to ensure a structured and data-driven approach to sustainability (Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation, 2022). Uttar Pradesh has embraced digital governance for SDG tracking and monitoring. The UP SDG Dashboard, developed in collaboration with the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) and international partners, provides real-time visualization of key SDG indicators. Various IT-enabled platforms facilitate outcome-based budgeting, ensuring transparency and accountability in policy implementation. The Planning Department has also launched an Integrated Data Management System, which allows inter-departmental coordination for real-time tracking of developmental programs. This system supports evidence-based policymaking and enhances the efficiency of SDG execution across various levels of governance (Government of Uttar Pradesh, n.d.). (C.) Key Initiatives Supporting SDG Localization – Mission Shakti (SDG 5 – Gender Equality): A state-wide initiative to promote women’s empowerment and safety. One District One Product (ODOP) Scheme (SDG 8 – Decent Work and Economic Growth): Encourages local entrepreneurship and sustainable livelihoods. Mukhyamantri Kisan Samman Yojana (SDG 2 – Zero Hunger): Strengthens food security by supporting farmers. Clean UP, Green UP Initiative (SDG 13 – Climate Action): Large-scale afforestation and waste management programs. By integrating sustainability, digital monitoring, and policy alignment, Uttar Pradesh is working toward achieving the Agenda 2030 vision, ensuring inclusive and sustainable development for its people.

West Bengal

(A.) Profile: West Bengal has 5 divisions (Burdwan, Medinipur, Jalpaiguri, Malda, Presidency) and 23 districts with a population of 1,01,12,599 spanning a total area of 88,752 (sq.km). The state composites 7 Municipal Corporations and 118 Municipalities/ Notified Area Authorities which are governed through the 74th CAA. Alongside, it comprises the 20 Zilla Parishads, 341 Panchayat Samitis, and 3,317 Gram Panchayats which are governed through the 73rd CAA. (Government of West Bengal, n.d). (B.) Institutional Framework for SDGs Monitoring/ Coordination: The state has developed the vision document entailing mission, short and long-term plans with targets to be achieved by 2030. The Department of Planning and Statistics has been designated as the nodal department for coordinating and monitoring SDG implementation in the State. The nodal department coordinates with all line ministries/ departments on their respective Goal responsibilities while ensuring a synchronized effort at the State level. However, a detailed hierarchy has been highlighted in the following manner – • State-level Mission chaired by the Chief Minister. • State Level Implementation Committee (Chaired by the Chief Secretary) with all Departmental Secretaries as Members. • Vision Monitoring Cell (Meeting to be Chaired by Sectoral Chairpersons with Sector Departments) • District Level Monitoring Committee (Chaired by District Magistrates with all Implementing agencies). (MoSPI, 2022). The state has recognized 585 measurable indicators consisting of inputs, outputs as well as proxy indicators for monitoring the progress of the SDGs (NITI Aayog, 2022). The concerned departments have initiated the process of framing the policy based on State Plan 2030. (C.) Existing Schemes/Policies: SDG 1 – Khadya Saathi, Jai Bangla Pension Scheme, Lakshmir Bhandar, WB Urban Livelihoods Mission. SDG 2 – Khadya Saathi, MDM, Anandadhara (NRLM), Sabujshree. SDG 3 –  Swasthya Sathi, Maa Canteen, Rogi Sahayata Kendra, Matri Yan, Bangla Awas Yojana. SDG 4 – Sabuj Sathi, Kanyashree Prakalpa, Shikshashree, Utkarsha Bangla, WB Student’s Credit Card Scheme. SDG 5 – Kanyashree Prakalpa, Ruposhree Prakalpa, Lakshmir Bhandar, Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana. SDG 6 – Jal Swapna, Mission Nirmal Bangla, Banglar Jol, WB Rural Sanitation Mission. SDG 7 – Kusum Solar Scheme, Aloshree, Rural Electrification Program. SDG 8 – Karma Sathi Prakalpa, Banglashree, Utkarsh Bangla, WB MSME policy. SDG 9 – Silpa Sathi, West Bengal Innovation Fund, Gatidhara, West Bengal IT Policy. SDG 10 – Jai Bangla Pension Scheme, Reservation in Education and Employment, Minority Development and Finance Corporation (WB MDFC). SDG 11 – Green City Mission, Banglar Awas Yojana, Smart Cities Mission. SDG 12 – Plastic Ban and Waste Management, E-waste Management policy, Sustainable Agriculture Promotion. SDG 13 – Jal Dharo-Jal Bharo, WB Climate Action Plan, Mangrove Plantation Programs. SDG 14 – Sunderbans Conservation Projects, Fisheries Development Scheme. SDG 15 – Green Mission, Forest Rights Act Implementation. SDG 16 – E-governance and digitization, Paray Samadhan, Crime Prevention for Women and Children. SDG 17 – PPP in infrastructure, International Trade and Investment policies, State Budget alignment with SDGs.

REFERENCES

– NITI Aayog. (2024). SDG India Index 2023-24.

– Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI). (2022). Guidance on Monitoring Framework for SDGs at Sub-National Level. Government of India. https://mospi.gov.in/sites/default/files/publication_reports/Guidance_on_MonitoringFramework_for_SDGs_March31_2022.pdf

– Government of NCT of Delhi. (n.d.). Planning Department, Government of Delhi. https://delhiplanning.delhi.gov.in/

– Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation. (2022). SDG India Index & Dashboard 2022-23. NITI Aayog. https://www.niti.gov.in

-Government of Telangana. (n.d.). State profile of Telangana. https://www.telangana.gov.in/about/state-profile/

– Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation. (2022). Guidance on monitoring framework for SDGs at the sub-national level.

– Planning Department, Telangana State. (n.d.). Sustainable Development Goals: The Global Agenda 2030.

– Government of Uttar Pradesh. (n.d.). Planning Department, Government of Uttar Pradesh. https://planning.up.gov.in/

– Government of West Bengal. (n.d.). State Profile of West Bengal. https://wb.gov.in/index.aspx

– Government of West Bengal. (n.d.). List of Schemes. https://cm.wb.gov.in/ncmo/Public/Scheme_Master.aspx