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Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
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2025
VOLUNTARY NATIONAL REVIEW REPORT
Copyright@ NITI Aayog, 2025
NITI Aayog,
Government of India,
Sansad Marg, New Delhi - 110001, India
www.niti.gov.in
Report Design by Think Inc Studio
2025
VOLUNTARY NATIONAL REVIEW REPORT
Message
In 2015, India did not merely adopt the Sustainable Development Goals, it made a bold promise to its people
and the world. A promise to drive inclusive and equitable sustainable development at scale, and fully
respectful of the country’s diversity. India’s commitment embodies a resolute dedication to address poverty,
inequality and environmental challenges directly and effectively.
India’s journey is set against a global backdrop where the stakes are high. The 2023 G20 New Delhi Leaders’
Declaration commended the efforts of the Indian Presidency to accelerate the implementation of the 2030
" H F O E B " U U I F 4 V N N J U P G U I F ' V U V S F X P S M E M F B E F S T S F B G m S N F E U I F J S C F M J F G J O B C S J H I U F S G V U V S F G P S B M M
humanity by adopting the Pact for the Future, pledging to accelerate progress on the SDGs through renewed
multilateralism and strengthened international cooperation. The world stands at a crossroads today, progress
towards the SDGs remains slow, and in some areas, has even regressed. Globally, the call for urgent,
collective action is louder than ever.
As the world’s largest democracy and a fast-growing economy, India shoulders a unique responsibility. Our
third Voluntary National Review, presented to the United Nations High Level Political Forum on Sustainable
Development, builds on the momentum of our previous reports in 2017 and 2020. This 2025 review is a
S F n F D U J P O P G Q S P H S F T T B O E B O I P O F T U B T T F T T N F O U P G X I B U S F N B J O T U P C F E P O F 5 I F Q S P D F T T I B T H B M W B O J T F E
voices from every sector including national and sub-national governments, civil society, and the private sector,
ensuring that our strategies are not only ambitious but also grounded in reality and partnership.
5 I F S F T V M U T B S F U B O H J C M F . J M M J P O T I B W F H B J O F E B D D F T T U P B G G P S E B C M F I F B M U I D B S F T F D V S F I P V T J O H B O E m O B O D J B M
inclusion. Flagship programmes like Ayushman Bharat, Poshan Abhiyan, Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana,
Skill India, and PM Gati Shakti are not just policies, they are pathways out of poverty and towards dignity and
T F M G S F M J B O D F " T D P O m S N F E C Z 6 / % 1 B O F T U J N B U F E N J M M J P O Q F P Q M F I B W F F T D B Q F E ø N V M U J E J N F O T J P O B M Q P W F S U Z ø
between 2015-16 and 2019-21. Digital Public Infrastructure is enabling seamless access to essential services
and opportunities, while robust data systems are ensuring that interventions are targeted, effective, and
equitable. Through a relentless focus on last-mile delivery and the synergy of schemes through initiatives such
Shri Suman Bery
Vice Chairman
National Institution for Transforming India
(NITI Aayog), Government of India
i
B T U I F " T Q J S B U J P O B M % J T U S J D U B O E # M P D L 1 S P H S B N N F T X F B S F E F U F S N J O F E U I B U U I F C F O F m U T P G H S P X U I B O E
progress reach every corner, leaving no one behind.
At the heart of this journey is our guiding principle of ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, Sabka
Prayas’ (Together for everyone’s growth, with everyone’s trust and effort). True and lasting development can
only be achieved when all partners and stakeholders work together and that is why India’s SDG Localisation
model involves a ‘whole-of Government’ and ‘whole-of society’ approach. Over the years, India has taken this
model to the most granular levels and districts, blocks and villages have been engaged to enable them to
adopt the SDG framework. This includes the development of monitoring frameworks, creating awareness,
undertaking capacity-building activities, and partnering with academic institutions, think tanks, and civil
society organisations.
8 J U I K V T U m W F Z F B S T M F G U U P B D I J F W F U I F 4 % ( T X F C F M J F W F U I B U * O E J B T T U P S Z E F T F S W F T B U U F O U J P O U P X I B U J T Q P T T J C M F
when innovation, resilience, and inclusive governance come together. Our progress is powered by data and
technology, but its true strength lies in the lived experiences of our people. India is not just focused on 2030,
but laying the foundation for Viksit Bharat, a fully developed India, by 2047.
Advancing the SDGs is not just an Indian imperative, it is a global public good. Our commitment is unwavering,
to leave no one behind, to mobilise resources where they matter most and to lead by example.
Shri Suman Bery
11
th
June, 2025
New Delhi, India
ii
Message
India’s implementation journey of the Agenda 2030 for Sustainable Development has been one of progress
and resilience while navigating global challenges. Recognised as one of the largest and fastest growing
economies worldwide, India has made steady progress in delivering development and resilience at scale.
This includes transforming India’s social welfare system and safety nets, investing in renewable energy,
focusing on digital inclusion, and developing infrastructure through various national and sub-national
initiatives. These achievements have been broad-based and inclusive, ensuring that vulnerable sections of
T P D J F U Z B M T P S F B Q U I F C F O F m U T P G U I F D P V O U S Z h T Q S P H S F T T U I F S F C Z W B M J E B U J O H U I F D M B S J P O D B M M P G h 4 B C L B 4 B B U I
4 B C L B 7 J L B T 4 B C L B 7 J T I X B T 4 B C L B 1 S B Z B T h 5 P H F U I F S X J U I " M M % F W F M P Q N F O U G P S " M M 5 S V T U P G " M M B O E & G G P S U
by All).
The complexity of today’s problems demands new innovative solutions. India has responded by leveraging
Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) to bring essential services to every doorstep and launching initiatives that
ensure convergence of schemes to reach marginalised communities. India is prioritising data-driven
governance, using indicators, dashboards and indexes to track progress and ensure transparency and
accountability. The SDG India Index has become an important tool to monitor progress and encouraging
sub-national Governments to learn from each other.
The country’s SDG Localisation model demonstrates our belief in cooperative and competitive federalism,
enabling tailored solutions to diverse challenges. In collaboration with the national Government,
sub-national Governments across the country have taken leadership at the local level, set up institutional
frameworks, prepared SDG vision documents, undertaken capacity-building and carried the importance of
Shri B.V.R. Subrahmanyam
& K L H I ( [ H F X W L Y H 2 I À F H U
National Institution for Transforming India
(NITI Aayog), Government of India
iii
SDGs down to the district and local levels. While we acknowledge our accomplishments, we are aware that
important areas such as rapid urbanisation and climate change require our continuous attention and effort.
India’s commitment to Agenda 2030 also integrates seamlessly with its long-term vision of Viksit
Bharat@2047, making India a developed nation in the centenary year of its independence; where
F D P O P N J D H S P X U I J T T I B S F E B O E B M M D J U J [ F O T D B O D P O U S J C V U F U P B O E C F O F m U G S P N U I F O B U J P O T Q S P H S F T T 5 I F
D P V O U S Z T W J T J P O J T m S N M Z J O D M V T J W F X J U I B G P D V T P O S F E V D J O H J O F R V B M J U Z P G B D D F T T J O W F T U J O H J O Z P V U I B O E
women, and building pathways out of poverty. As India moves forward, the SDGs will remain a cornerstone
of our growth strategy, guiding the nation towards building a just, equitable and resilient future for all and
leaving no one behind.
With a focus on collaboration, we are proud to present India’s third Voluntary National Review to the United
Nations High Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development. This effort documents the experiences of
institutionalising the SDGs in the country, including both achievements and challenges, to share with the
global community and contribute to a more sustainable and equitable future for all. By sharing our journey,
X F S F B G m S N P V S C F M J F G U I B U U P H F U I F S X F D B O U S B O T G P S N D I B M M F O H F T J O U P P Q Q P S U V O J U J F T B O E F O I B O D F F G G P S U T U P
advancing Agenda 2030.
Shri B.V.R. Subrahmanyam
11
th
June, 2025
New Delhi, India
iv
Acknowledgement
The journey towards sustainable development is a dynamic, ever-evolving pursuit that demands resilience,
innovation and unwavering commitment. A decade ago, when the global community rallied behind Agenda
2030, India recognised that its actions would not only shape its own future, but also contribute to the
D P M M F D U J W F Q S P H S F T T P G I V N B O J U Z 5 P E B Z B T X F S F n F D U P O P V S Q S P H S F T T X F B S F S F N J O E F E U I B U U I F D P O U F Y U J O
which we operate has grown more complex, the challenges more urgent and the stakes higher than ever
before.
India’s development story is one of transformation at scale. As a result of bold policies and targeted
interventions, millions have gained access to basic services like clean water and sanitation, skilling,
housing, and food security. This inclusive model has enabled us to foster partnerships across sectors,
levels of Government and regions, amplifying the impact of our efforts.
We are honoured to submit our third Voluntary National Review (VNR) to the United Nations High Level
Political Forum on Sustainable Development. Spanning more than nine months, the VNR process involved
comprehensive consultations across the nation, drawing upon the insights and experiences of a diverse
array of stakeholders including national and sub-national Governments (28 States and 8 Union Territories)
and by engaging over a thousand civil society organisations, think tanks, the private sector and local
D P N N V O J U J F T 0 V S T J O D F S F U I B O L T B M T P H P U P U I F 6 O J U F E / B U J P O T 3 F T J E F O U $ P P S E J O B U P S h T 0 G m D F B O E P U I F S
United Nations agencies in India for their crucial role in facilitating structured dialogue with civil society
organisations and business representatives.
Shri Rajib Kumar Sen
Programme Director (SDG)
National Institution for Transforming India
(NITI Aayog), Government of India
v
vi
We would like to extend our heartfelt appreciation to Shri Suman Bery, Vice Chairman of NITI Aayog. His
encouragement and deep inspiration have played a crucial role in motivating our efforts. We are also
H S B U F G V M U P 4 I S J # 7 3 4 V C S B I N B O Z B N $ & 0 P G / * 5 * " B Z P H X I P T F M F B E F S T I J Q B O E T U F B E G B T U E F E J D B U J P O I B T
been central to the successful development of the VNR. We are also thankful to the Hon’ble Members and
Programme Directors of NITI Aayog for their valuable support and contributions.
Last but not the least, I would also like to commend the efforts of the SDG Team which has been
instrumental in bringing this ambitious initiative to fruition.
5 I F 7 / 3 T F S W F T C P U I B T B S F D P S E P G P V S B D D P N Q M J T I N F O U T B O E B T B D P N Q F M M J O H D B M M U P B D U J P O * U S F n F D U T U I F
progress made through determination and collaboration, guided by a commitment to sustainability and
inclusion.
Shri Rajib Kumar Sen
11
th
June, 2025
New Delhi, India
CONTENTS
Message from the Vice Chairman, NITI Aayog i
0 H V V D J H I U R P W K H & K L H I ( [ H F X W L Y H 2 I À F H U 1 , 7 , $ D \ R J L L L
Acknowledgement v
CHAPTER 01
A Decade of Progress on the Path to Agenda 2030 1-9
CHAPTER 02
India and the World 11-19
CHAPTER 03
Consultations with Stakeholders 21-37
CHAPTER 04
India on the Move: Progress on SDGs 39-177
CHAPTER 05
Data for Development 179-189
CHAPTER 06
Last Mile Delivery and a Whole-of-Society Approach 181-203
CHAPTER 07
, Q G L D · V 6 ' * / R F D O L V D W L R Q 0 R G H O
CHAPTER 08
Digital Public Infrastructure 219-227
CHAPTER 09
7 R Z D U G V D 9 L N V L W % K D U D W #
9 1 5 $ E E U H Y L D W L R Q V
01
CHAPTER
A decade of progress
on the Path to Agenda 203001
xxxxxx
WHOLE-OF-GOVERNMENT
AND WHOLE-OF-SOCIETY
APPROACH TO ACHIEVING
THE SDGs
India has demonstrated its consistent commitment to
Agenda 2030 from the outset, by embracing the
Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) at all levels of
the Government. Recognising the interconnectedness
of various issues such as poverty, inequality, health,
innovation and climate change, the Government has
made consistent efforts to put in place structures and
create policies that can contribute towards the
achievement of development priorities. India’s
approach anchored in the principle of 'Sabka Saath,
Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, Sabka Prayas'
(Together with All, Development for All, Trust of All,
and Efforts by All) underscores India's commitment to
human-centric sustainable development that leaves
no one behind.
India has deepened its commitment to cooperative
federalism, with collaboration as ‘Team India’
extending from the Centre, State and Union Territory
(UT) levels all the way down to Districts, Blocks and
Municipal or Gram Panchayats (village) levels. This
‘whole-of-government’ approach has advanced the
development agenda by implementing process and
governance reforms, reducing compliance burdens,
and simplifying and digitising processes.
The resulting shift is enhancing the investment
climate, fostering participative governance, and
improving the quality of life by strengthening the
delivery mechanisms of government interventions.
India, with its population of over 1.4 billion and a
vibrant tapestry of culture, language and tradition,
stands as one of the world’s fastest-growing
economies. This diversity, coupled with a blend of
ancient wisdom and modern aspirations, has shaped
a nation that is continuously evolving and adapting to
new challenges. India has sought to ensure that
growth and development are not just rapid, but also
sustainable, resilient, broad-based and inclusive,
reaching all sections of society, especially the most
marginalised.
CHAPTER 1: A DECADE OF PROGRESS ON THE
PATH TO AGENDA 2030
Today, the Indian SDG Localisation model has
evolved into a decentralised, data-driven, and
participatory approach, with enhanced monitoring
tools, and a greater emphasis on partnerships and
adaptive governance. The model has been taken to
the most granular levels with an increase in levels of
engagement with States, UTs, Districts and
institutional structures beyond, to enable them to
adopt the SDG framework. To foster cooperative and
competitive federalism, the SDG India Index has been
developed as a tool for measuring progress in
achieving the SDGs, accessible to all stakeholders.
27 States and 5 UTs (sub-national governments) have
established indicator frameworks, 23 States and 4
UTs have prepared SDG vision documents and many
have undertaken capacity-building to support SDG
implementation. The ‘whole-of-society’ approach is
complementing this by bringing together civil society,
the private sector, academia, think tanks and media to
promote citizen participation and mobilise resources
for urgent SDG priorities.
The SDG India Index 2023-2024 has highlighted that
the composite score for India has improved from 57 in
2018 to 71 in 2023-24. Various institutional and
coordination mechanisms have supported India’s
efforts in its progress towards its Agenda 2030 goals.
3
1. Discussion forums at various levels
To facilitate the exchange of ideas, sharing of best
practices and improved implementation, the
Government has established various forums at the
political, executive and ideation level to enhance
coordination and policy execution. These platforms
encourage idea generation, foster cross-learning, and
provide opportunities for the development of new
initiatives and innovations.
a. Governing Council
The Governing Council of NITI Aayog is a key political
platform that embodies the principle of cooperative
federalism. It comprises the Prime Minister, Chief
Ministers of all States and UTs and key Union
ministers. This Council provides a platform to discuss
inter-sectoral and inter-departmental issues. The
involvement of Chief Ministers enables the Governing
$ P V O D J M U P D P O T J E F S T U B U F T Q F D J m D D P O D F S O T B O E
strategies while shaping national policies.
b. National Conference of Chief Secretaries
At the executive level, the National Conference of
Chief Secretaries is organised annually under the
leadership of the Cabinet Secretary and is driven by
the Prime Minister's vision to enhance cooperative
federalism and foster better coordination between the
Centre and States. The conference chaired by the
Prime Minister, is attended by representatives from all
4 U B U F T B O E 6 O J P O 5 F S S J U P S J F T B M P O H X J U I P G m D J B M T G S P N
select Union Ministries. Each conference is preceded
by discussions involving Union Ministries, States/UTs,
and domain experts to identify best practices that
could be shared among States/UTs to encourage
cross-learning.
c. Chintan Shivirs (Strategic Brainstorming
Sessions)
Chintan Shivirs (strategic brainstorming sessions) are
conducted at different levels including the ministerial
level to enhance governance, policy formulation and
strategic planning. These sessions adopt an inclusive
approach by engaging a wide range of stakeholders
J O D M V E J O H N J O J T U F S T T F D S F U B S J F T T F O J P S P G m D J B M T
industry leaders, academics and experts from various
m F M E T F O T V S J O H E J W F S T F Q F S T Q F D U J W F T B O E J O T J H I U T U I B U
lead to more robust policy recommendations.
During the 2024 Chintan Shivir on Renewable Energy,
India's ambitious goal of achieving 500 GW of
renewable energy capacity by 2030 was extensively
discussed. The event highlighted the necessity of
collaborative efforts and strategic initiatives to meet
this target, emphasising inter-ministerial coordination
and stakeholder engagement to address sector
challenges. Another outcome of these shivirs was the
setting up a dedicated task force to achieve the goal
of 500 GW by 2030.
A DECADE OF PROGRESS ON THE PATH TO AGENDA 2030
4
POLICIES EMPOWERING
PROGRESS
The strategic discussions at various levels have led to
establishment of initiatives and policies that are
playing a catalytic role in empowering people and
communities and addressing key challenges such as
hunger, health, education, gender equality, water and
sanitation, energy and economic growth.
Efforts to eradicate hunger and malnutrition include
the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana, which
has helped ensure food security for millions.
Sustainable agriculture is supported through
programmes like Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi
and the National Mission on Sustainable Agriculture,
while nutrition-focused initiatives such as POSHAN
Abhiyaan have driven progress in reducing child
malnutrition. In healthcare, initiatives like Ayushman
Bharat Yojana, the National Health Mission and the
Pradhan Mantri Ayushman Bharat Health
Infrastructure Mission have expanded access and
T U S F O H U I F O F E J O G S B T U S V D U V S F D P O U S J C V U J O H U P T J H O J m D B O U
declines in maternal, infant and child mortality.
Access to safe and affordable drinking water and
sanitation has improved through the Jal Jeevan
Mission, aiming to provide tap water to every rural
household, and the Swachh Bharat Mission, which
has expanded sanitation coverage nationwide. The
transition to clean energy is supported by
programmes like the National Green Hydrogen
Mission and Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha
evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan (PM KUSUM), alongside
efforts to increase renewable energy capacity and
promote energy access through schemes such as
Pradhan Mantri Sahaj Bijli Har Ghar Yojana and PM
Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana. Economic recovery and
job creation are being driven by initiatives like Startup
India and Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana, and
Skills Acquisition and Knowledge Awareness for
Livelihood, which focus on skill development,
entrepreneurship, and support for micro, small and
medium enterprises. Infrastructure and industrial
capabilities are being enhanced through Make in
India, PM Gati Shakti and the National Industrial
Corridor Development Programme.
2. State Support Mission
As the Prime Minister has emphasised, "When our
states grow, India grows". The Union Government has
introduced the State Support Mission (SSM) to
enhance engagement with States and UTs in a
structured and institutionalised manner. The SSM
helps States/UTs develop a roadmap for achieving
their socio-economic goals by aligning development
strategies with national priorities and focusing on
each State's core strengths. Interested states have
established State Institutions for Transformation (SITs)
which serve as multi-disciplinary resources to guide
development strategies. These can be new or existing
institutions, such as planning departments and
boards, reimagined for this purpose. As of 2024, 26
SITs have been established under the SSM. The
mission emphasises cross-sectoral partnerships and
expertise, and States/UTs are encouraged to
designate a Lead Knowledge Institution to support
the SITs by partnering with universities or research
organisations of excellence in their region.
3. Multi-Stakeholder Partnerships
India is advancing the SDGs through partnerships
across the Government, the private sector, civil
society, academia, and think tanks through
‘whole-of-society’ approach. The private sector is
Q M B Z J O H B Q J W P U B M S P M F C Z M F W F S B H J O H J U T m O B O D J B M
resources, human capital and technological expertise
to innovate and accelerate SDG implementation. This
includes strategic investments in job creation, digital
platforms, entrepreneurship support, and integrating
SDGs into core business operations. Civil Society
Organisations (CSOs) are instrumental in facilitating
citizen-government dialogue, providing independent
oversight, and mobilising essential networks that
amplify government efforts. The research and
analytical expertise of think tanks and academia
further enrich these partnerships, helping to translate
complex challenges into actionable solutions. This
approach empowers communities, fosters local
ownership, and supports sustainable, long-term
progress toward the SDGs.
A DECADE OF PROGRESS ON THE PATH TO AGENDA 2030
5
These efforts, combined with mobilising technology
and increasing connectivity, are collectively
contributing to India’s comprehensive approach to
sustainable and inclusive development.
Central to this progress has been India’s remarkable
achievements in poverty reduction. As per the
discussion paper ‘Multidimensional Poverty in India
since 2005-06’ by NITI Aayog and UNDP, 248.2 million
people have escaped multidimensional poverty
between 2013-14 and 2022-23.
1
The World Bank’s
Spring Meetings 2025 Poverty and Equity Brief further
notes that around 171 million people have been lifted
out of extreme poverty, with the proportion of people
living in extreme poverty on less than $2.15 a day
falling sharply from 16.2 percent in 2011-12 to just 2.3
percent in 2022-23.
2
5 I F T F O V N C F S T S F n F D U N P S F U I B O
statistical progress; they represent real improvements
in the lives of millions. Expanded access to healthcare,
education, electricity, sanitation, and affordable
housing has transformed the quality of life for millions.
Convergence of schemes at various levels and the
saturation of essential government services are being
advanced through initiatives such as the Aspirational
Districts Programme (ADP) and the Aspirational
Blocks Programme (ABP). ADP targets 112
underdeveloped districts, focusing on health,
education, infrastructure and economic development
through multi-sectoral interventions. Building on ADP’s
success, the ABP was launched in 2023 to improve
governance and quality of life in 500 blocks across 27
states and 4 UTs. Both programmes emphasise
data-driven governance, real-time monitoring and
collaboration among Central, State and local bodies to
N F F U E J T U S J D U T Q F D J m D O F F E T B O E B E W B O D F 4 % (
localisation. These programmes empower local
communities and ensure targeted, measurable
interventions to bridge development gaps.
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India's dedication to the SDGs is deeply connected to
J U T F G G P S U T U P F O T V S F H S P X U I C F O F m U T S F B D I
marginalised and vulnerable communities. As the
world's largest democracy, India faces the challenge
of serving a diverse population, focusing on effective
last-mile delivery of essential services like healthcare,
education, housing, sanitation and energy. The
Government recognises that reaching those most in
need is crucial for equitable development. Initiatives
such as the Aspirational District Programme,
Aspirational Block Programme and Gram Panchayat
Development Plans (GPDPs) are designed to
accelerate progress in the most underdeveloped and
disadvantaged areas. For instance, GPDPs enable
villages to align their development strategies with
SDG targets and foster accountability at the
grassroots level. By concentrating resources and
attention on these regions, India has been able to
address persistent inequalities and bring
development to previously underserved communities.
Additionally, empowering local governments and
communities to identify priorities and implement
solutions has ensured that development is responsive
to local needs.
Consultations with Leave No One Behind Groups
(LNOB Groups), civil society and the private sector
have been integral to India’s SDG strategy. These
participatory processes ensure that the perspectives
of marginalised communities and key stakeholders
B S F S F n F D U F E J O Q P M J D Z E F T J H O B O E J N Q M F N F O U B U J P O
DIGITAL PUBLIC
INFRASTRUCTURE
India's Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) serves as a
key enabler for economic growth and broader
socio-economic objectives, demonstrating how
well-designed digital infrastructure can support
societal transformation, promote inclusion and
improve governance and service delivery. By
seamlessly integrating digital identity (Aadhaar),
S F B M U J N F Q B Z N F O U T 6 O J m F E 1 B Z N F O U T * O U F S G B D F B O E
consent-based data sharing frameworks, India has
built a secure, interoperable and scalable digital
backbone that serves over a billion people. This
citizen-centric model rooted in open standards,
public-private collaboration and digital inclusion not
only enhances service delivery and transparency but
B M T P S F E F m O F T I P X O B U J P O T D B O C S J E H F E F W F M P Q N F O U B M
gaps through innovation.
DATA FOR DEVELOPMENT
India emphasises data-driven decision-making to
accelerate SDG achievement, highlighting the need
for high-quality data, robust statistical systems and
equitable data governance. The country has
enhanced its National Indicator Framework and
encouraged States to develop their own frameworks,
ensuring that both national and sub-national priorities
South has gained global importance. These themes were prominent during India’s 2023 G20 Presidency and continue to drive momentum in UN processes, including the UN Summit of the Future, Financing for Development negotiations and the UN Environmental Assembly. Anchored in the vision of “One Earth, One Family, One Future”, India’s G20 Presidency culminated in an action-oriented New Delhi Declaration, resulting in unprecedented agreement among major economies on reforming multilateralism, accelerating SDGs, strengthening multilateral E F W F M P Q N F O U m O B O D F B O E B N Q M J G Z J O H U I F ( M P C B M South's voice by inviting the African Union as a permanent G20 member. Additionally, India, inspired by its Mission Lifestyle for Environment (LiFE), which emphasises individual actions in combating climate change, has successfully advocated for a global resolution on sustainable lifestyles. India is a signatory to Pact of the Future to drive global acceleration of Agenda 2030 and strengthen sustainable development, digital cooperation, youth engagement and global governance transformation.
A DECADE OF PROGRESS ON THE PATH TO AGENDA 2030
6
are effectively tracked. Tools and indices such as the
SDG India Index, North-Eastern Region District SDG
Index and the Multidimensional Poverty Index, School
Education Quality Index, State Health Index and India
Innovation Index are being used to monitor progress
and inform policy decisions. These frameworks
support data-driven decision-making, offer
opportunities for States, UTs, Districts, and even Gram
Panchayats (village councils) to identify priority areas
for improvement, enhance targeting and optimise
resource allocation. India’s decentralised statistical
system is undergoing reforms to improve data quality,
interoperability and human capital. In addition, new
technologies and alternative data sources are being
integrated to further strengthen SDG monitoring.
GLOBAL LEADERSHIP AND
COLLABORATION
The country’s focus on DPI, data for development,
women-led development and empowering the Global
South has gained global importance. These themes
were prominent during India’s 2023 G20 Presidency
and continue to drive momentum in UN processes,
including the UN Summit of the Future, Financing for
Development negotiations and the UN Environmental
Assembly. Anchored in the vision of “One Earth, One
Family, One Future”, India’s G20 Presidency
culminated in an action-oriented New Delhi
Declaration, resulting in unprecedented agreement
among major economies on reforming multilateralism,
accelerating SDGs, strengthening multilateral
E F W F M P Q N F O U m O B O D F B O E B N Q M J G Z J O H U I F ( M P C B M
South's voice by inviting the African Union as a
permanent G20 member. Additionally, India, inspired
by its Mission Lifestyle for Environment (LiFE), which
emphasises individual actions in combating climate
change, has successfully advocated for a global
resolution on sustainable lifestyles. India is a signatory
to Pact of the Future to drive global acceleration of
Agenda 2030 and strengthen sustainable
development, digital cooperation, youth engagement
and global governance transformation.
A DECADE OF PROGRESS ON THE PATH TO AGENDA 2030
7
TOWARDS VIKSIT
R « ÁþÐÎÒÕ
While substantial progress has been made,
opportunities for improvement remain, particularly in
harnessing high-quality data for policymaking,
empowering youth, enhancing skilling and
employment opportunities and increasing women’s
participation in the workforce. With an estimated 590
million people expected to migrate to urban areas by
2030, preparing cities with robust infrastructure and
services is essential. Identifying and developing new
growth centres can help reduce regional inequalities.
Persistent issues like climate change and
environmental pollution also demand sustained
attention. To address these, the Government is
continuously monitoring and evaluating its
programmes, and actively collaborating with civil
society and the private sector, even during
consultations, to foster all-round development and
F O T V S F F G m D J F O U M B T U N J M F E F M J W F S Z
India’s steadfast commitment to the SDGs, extends
C F Z P O E D V M N J O B U J O H J O U I F B N C J U J P V T W J T J P O P G ø
Viksit Bharat@2047, a developed India by the
centenary of independence. This vision aligns with
India's push to achieve the SDGs, demonstrating a
dedication to fostering sustainable growth,
empowering citizens and implementing strategies that
enhance their capabilities to realise their aspirations,
ultimately building the foundation for an inclusive and
thriving India and the world.
The journey towards 2030 and beyond is
characterised by a continuous interplay between
national ambition and local action, global
engagement and grassroots empowerment.
Strengthening coordination and knowledge-sharing
across stakeholders will continue to enhance Team
India’s resilience against future disruptions and
B M J H O J O H E F W F M P Q N F O U F G G P S U T U P C F F G m D J F O U J O D M V T J W F
and globally relevant. As India moves forward, the
SDGs will remain a cornerstone of its economic
strategy, guiding the nation toward sustained growth,
innovation and sustainability.
2025 VOLUNTARY
NATIONAL REVIEW
Previous Voluntary National Reviews (VNRs) in 2017
and 2020 had documented India’s innovative
pathways to progress. For instance, the 2020 VNR
consulted widely with stakeholders, setting a
precedent for future reviews.
The 2025 VNR marks 10 years of collaborative
federalism and SDG localisation, showcasing India’s
resilience in the face of global crises. It highlights the
convergence of schemes at various levels and
saturation of essential government services thereby
promoting inclusive development and demonstrating
sub-national and local ownership of progress. India’s
human centric digitally enabled safety nets and SDG
localisation model demonstrate this ownership,
testifying to the effectiveness of India’s development
strategies.
India’s SDG journey over the past decade offers a
unique opportunity to analyse and compile best
practices. This VNR aims to share India's success
story with the wider United Nations and other UN
Member States, highlighting the role that India's
development can play for the world as a whole. By
documenting its progress and challenges, India
seeks to share its experiences and lessons learned
with the global community, contributing to a more
sustainable and equitable future for all.
8
A DECADE OF PROGRESS ON THE PATH TO AGENDA 2030
02
CHAPTER
02
India and the World
Agenda 2030 stands as a landmark goal, remarkable
both for its universality and its integrity, demanding a
comprehensive and inclusive approach. The SDGs
form a universally agreed framework that seeks to
balance the dignity of every individual with the
imperative for sustainable behaviour, ensuring that the
Q S F T F O U H F O F S B U J P O G V M m M T J U T S F T Q P O T J C J M J U J F T U P U I P T F Z F U
to come. Progress on these goals is not only vital for
global safety and stability, but also constitutes a global
public good.
India holds a pivotal place in the global pursuit of the
SDGs, and recognises that realising these ambitions
requires international cooperation and a shared sense
of responsibility. Emphasising the power of
partnerships, especially through South-South
Cooperation, India is focusing on knowledge-sharing,
mutual support, and capacity-building among
developing nations. By offering technical assistance,
m O B O D J B M S F T P V S D F T B O E J U T P X O E F W F M P Q N F O U B M
experiences, India is seeking to foster collaboration,
reinforcing the idea that sustainable development is
best achieved through collective action and solidarity.
India’s approach to sustainable development prioritises
J O D M V T J W F H S P X U I B O E F O T V S J O H U I B U F D P O P N J D C F O F m U T
reach all sections of society, especially marginalised
communities. Its commitment to the Paris Agreement
highlights its focus on climate action, while its early and
active membership in the Global Alliance Against
Hunger and Poverty demonstrates its ongoing efforts to
achieve SDG 1 (No Poverty) and SDG 2 (Zero Hunger).
India is actively contributing to the Alliance, through the
National and Knowledge Pillars and is sharing the
experience of its policies and large-scale social welfare
programmes, such as the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan
Anna Yojana (PMGKAY), Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan
Yojana (PMJDY), National Nutrition Mission (NNM) also
known as POSHAN Abhiyan and the Aspirational
Districts Programme (ADP) and Aspirational Blocks
Programme (ABP), with the world.
CHAPTER 2: INDIA AND THE WORLD
INDIA AS A VISHWA BANDHU
h I « X 0 z ( … I Á R 0 á … « n (
i
India's development partnership is tailored to meet the
needs of its partner countries, responding to as many
S F R V F T U T B T U F D I O J D B M M Z B O E m O B O D J B M M Z G F B T J C M F 5 I F
main instruments of India's development assistance
include Lines-of-Credit (LoCs), High Impact Community
Development Projects (HICDPs), technical consultancy,
disaster relief and humanitarian aid, as well as
capacity-building programmes under the Indian
Technical and Economic Cooperation Programme
* 5 & $ " T U I F n B H T I J Q D B Q B D J U Z C V J M E J O H Q S P H S B N N F P G
( P W F S O N F O U P G * O E J B * 5 & $ I B T C F O F m U U F E N P S F U I B O
countries and has contributed to the capacity
enhancement of more than 225,000 professionals since
its inception. Today, it has been expanded to include
F N F S H J O H m F M E T M J L F " * O B O P U F D I O P M P H Z G P S F O T J D T B O E
cyber security.
Over the years, India has extended 308 LoCs
aggregating more than USD 32.029 billion to various
countries across different sectors. The portfolio LoCs
I B T C F F O E J W F S T J m F E C P U I H F P H S B Q I J D B M M Z B O E T F D U P S
wise, and now covers regions like the Latin America and
U I F $ B S J C C F B O - " $ B O E * O E P 1 B D J m D B O E
encompasses sectors such as connectivity, ICT, health,
and renewable energy.
India has been a strong advocate for amplifying the
voices of the Global South by hosting three Voice of
Global South Summits (VOGSS), which have seen
participation from over 100 countries. These summits
have provided a platform for developing countries to
articulate their developmental concerns collectively.
' F F E C B D L G S P N U I F m S T U U X P T V N N J U T X B T S F n F D U F E J O
global forums like the G20 Summit under India's
Presidency. During the third VOGSS in 2024, the Indian
Prime Minister proposed a Global Development
Compact, focusing on trade for development, capacity
C V J M E J O H U F D I O P M P H Z T I B S J O H B O E Q S P K F D U T Q F D J m D
D P O D F T T J P O B M m O B O D F B O E H S B O U T " E E J U J P O B M M Z * O E J B
announced initiatives to advance its development
partnership with Global South including a USD 2.5
million fund to boost trade promotion activities and a
USD 1 million fund for capacity building in trade policy
and trade negotiation.
13
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³ R « 0 ( ¨ « … ³ ¨ 0 « X Á ç X z Á R 0 J n … n ³ … È Á R
India's South-South cooperation activities also leverage the UN development system and its network of UN
country teams worldwide. In 2017 India launched the India-UN Development Partnership Fund in
F R O O D E R U D W L R Q Z L W K W K H 8 1 2 I À F H I R U 6 R X W K 6 R X W K & R R S H U D W L R Q 8 1 2 6 6 & W R K H O S D F K L H Y H W K H 6 ' * V E \
implementing country-driven projects that aim to: reduce poverty and hunger; improve health, education
and equality; and increase access to clean water, energy and livelihoods. The Fund's resources amount to
P L O O L R Q L Q I X Q G L Q J W K D W I R F X V P D L Q O \ R Q S U R M H F W V L Q O H D V W G H Y H O R S H G F R X Q W U L H V / ' & V V P D O O L V O D Q G
G H Y H O R S L Q J 6 W D W H V 6 , ' 6 D Q G & R P P R Q Z H D O W K F R X Q W U L H V
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D G Y D Q F H G 8 6 ' D Q G Q X P E H U R I S U R M H F W V
) L J X U H , Q G L D 8 1 S D U W Q H U V K L S ) X Q G S U R M H F W V E \ F R X Q W U \ W \ S R O R J \Source: https://unsouthsouth.org/indiaunfund/ 1 X P E H U R I S U R M H F W V 6 P D O O , V O D Q G
' H Y H O R S L Q J 6 W D W H V / H D V W ' H Y H O R S H G
Countries / D Q G O R F N H G ' H Y H O R S L Q J
Countries
22
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& R P P X Q L W L H V 0
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INDIA AND THE WORLD
14
INDIA’S LEADERSHIP AT
Á R 0 JÐÎ
During the Indian G20 Presidency, G20 Leaders
adopted decisive and action-oriented outcomes to
B E E S F T T H M P C B M D I B M M F O H F T S F n F D U J O H B D P N N J U N F O U
to sustainable development and support for the most
vulnerable. A key achievement was the G20 2023
Action Plan to Accelerate Progress on the SDGs, an
ambitious 7-year roadmap for coordinated G20
actions. This plan achieved a strong consensus on
Financing for Development including addressing the
C P U U M F O F D L T J O m O B O D J O H B O E I J H I M J H I U F E U I F O F F E G P S
an internationally enabling environment to promote
globally just transitions, ensuring no one is left behind.
Additionally, it emphasised the potential of DPI and
Data for Development (D4D) to achieve SDGs and
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( 0 à 0 n … ¨ x 0 z Á z k ³
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7 R D G G U H V V W K L V W K H , ( * S U R S R V H G L P S R U W D Q W U H I R U P V I R U W K H P X O W L O D W H U D O G H Y H O R S P H Q W E D Q N V W R E H F R P H
E R W K E L J J H U E X W D O V R E H W W H U L P S O H P H Q W H U V R I W K H 6 ' * V 7 K H W K U H H H O H P H Q W V R I W K L V ´ W U L S O H D J H Q G D µ D U H I R U
0 ' % V W R
L D G R S W D W U L S O H P D Q G D W H R I H O L P L Q D W L Q J H [ W U H P H S R Y H U W \ E R R V W L Q J V K D U H G S U R V S H U L W \ D Q G F R Q W U L E X W L Q J W R
global public goods;
L L W U L S O H V X V W D L Q D E O H O H Q G L Q J O H Y H O V E \ D Q G
L L L F U H D W H Q H Z I X Q G L Q J P H F K D Q L V P V D Q G F R D O L W L R Q V Z K L F K Z R X O G S H U P L W Á H [ L E O H D Q G L Q Q R Y D W L Y H
D U U D Q J H P H Q W V I R U S X U S R V H I X O O \ H Q J D J L Q J Z L W K L Q Y H V W R U V Z L O O L Q J W R V X S S R U W H O H P H Q W V R I W K H 0 ' % D J H Q G D
use AI responsibly for social empowerment. The G20
agreed on a ‘Capacity Building Initiative on D4D’ to
support developing countries in achieving the SDGs,
showcasing a commitment to inclusive development.
Furthermore, the G20 agreed on women-led
development with a focus on women empowerment
and gender equality as one of the key outcomes of
India’s Presidency and established the G20 Working
Group on the Empowerment of Women. The G20 also
welcomed the reports of the Independent Expert
Group on Strengthening Multilateral Development
Banks, which formulated proposals for scaling up
E F W F M P Q N F O U B O E D M J N B U F m O B O D F
INDIA AND THE WORLD
15
India also spearheaded the adoption of policy priorities
at the G20 to address global skill gaps, boosting
cross-country skill comparability and international
cooperation. This initiative will enhance mapping and
mutual recognition of global skill gaps, strengthening
partnerships with various actors, including the UN and
other regional partners. Additionally, India supported
the establishment of the Global Initiative on Digital
Health to achieve Universal Health Coverage (UHC)
and implement the One Health approach, ensuring
equitable access to safe, effective, quality-assured
and affordable vaccines, therapeutics, diagnostics
and other medical countermeasures, especially in low-
and middle-income countries.
The G20 emphasised human-centric action to address
climate change through the LiFEstyles for Sustainable
Development (LiFE) approach. This holistic approach
strengthens interlinkages between development,
climate and environment agendas, contributing to SDG
12, and will have a multiplier effect on SDGs 1 to 8 by
focusing on the basic human needs and promoting
sustainable consumption and production. In the spirit
of shaping a new approach to our planet's future, the
Prime Minister launched the Global Biofuel Alliance
and proposed that G20 countries work on a “Green
Credits Initiative.”
INDIA’S ROLE IN
HEALTHCARE
India has emerged as a pivotal actor in healthcare
E J Q M P N B D Z T J H O J m D B O U M Z D P O U S J C V U J O H U P U I F H M P C B M
health ecosystem. Known as the "pharmacy of the
world," India is the largest producer of generic
medicines and vaccines, playing a central role in improving healthcare access for low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) and ensuring that essential medicines are affordable and available. " Q Q S P Y J N B U F M Z P G U I F X P S M E h T W B D D J O F T B O E P G generic medicines are produced in India, with the World Health Organization (WHO) noting that India N B O V G B D U V S F T P W F S P G U I F H M P C B M E F N B O E G P S vaccines, including critical ones for diseases like polio, hepatitis B and tuberculosis. In 2020, India supplied N P S F U I B O N J M M J P O E P T F T P G U I F Q P M J P W B D D J O F globally, ensuring that polio remains under control. Additionally, India is the largest supplier of ARVs B O U J S F U S P W J S B M E S V H T G P S ) * 7 " * % 4 N F F U J O H P G global needs.
As one of the world's leading vaccine producers, India
was a major contributor to the COVAX initiative, a
global effort to ensure equitable vaccine distribution
during the COVID-19 pandemic, especially to LMICs.
The Serum Institute of India (SII), the world's largest
vaccine manufacturer, produced billions of doses of
the AstraZeneca-Oxford vaccine, which were
distributed globally through COVAX. India's
involvement in COVAX was pivotal in ensuring that
millions of doses reached countries in Africa, Asia, and
Latin America. By mid-2021, India had exported over
250 million vaccine doses to more than 100 countries,
with 40 million doses going to Africa alone. Additionally,
India developed and deployed the Co-WIN platform, a
Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) that facilitated the
smooth distribution of COVID-19 vaccines within India.
The platform's success in managing vaccine rollouts
domestically led India to offer it to other nations,
helping them streamline their own vaccination efforts.
INDIA AND THE WORLD
, Q G L D · V L Q W H U Q D W L R Q D O S U R P R W L R Q R I < R J D K D V G H H S H Q H G J O R E D O X Q G H U V W D Q G L Q J R I , Q G L D Q F X O W X U H D Q G S K L O R V R S K \
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Day has been celebrated worldwide through diverse activities promoting yoga and holistic well-being.
ç … J J X z ( X | ³ ! … z Á « X È Á X … z Á … J n … n á 0 n ns 0 X z J
These targets are in line with the global climate
B H F O E B B O E S F n F D U * O E J B T E F U F S N J O B U J P O U P D P O U S J C V U F
to climate mitigation while balancing its economic
growth aspirations. Prime Minister’s leadership during
$ 0 1 B M T P F N Q I B T J T F E U I F O F F E G P S E F W F M P Q F E
O B U J P O T U P G V M m M U I F J S m O B O D J B M D P N N J U N F O U T U P
developing countries and to ensure that climate
action does not leave anyone behind. Most recently at
COP29 Summit in Baku in 2024, India led the
E F W F M P Q J O H D P V O U S J F T P Q Q P T J U J P O U P U I F J O T V G m D J F O U
outcome of discussions on the new collective
R V B O U J m F E H P B M P O D M J N B U F m O B O D F B O E I J H I M J H I U F E
that the lack of collaboration on climate change is a
global challenge faced by all countries, but most of
all by the developing countries that are not
responsible for it.
X z ( X | ³ « … n 0 X z J n … n
! n X x Á 0 n 0 ( 0 « ³ R X ¨
Through initiatives like the International Solar Alliance
(ISA), its ambitious Nationally Determined
Contributions (NDCs), advocacy for sustainable
lifestyles and leadership in climate resilience efforts
such as the Coalition for Disaster Resilient
Infrastructure (CDRI), India has proven that it can take
bold steps to address climate change while
prioritising the needs of its people. India's role in
global climate leadership is a balancing act between
its developmental aspirations and environmental
responsibilities.
* U T D P N N J U N F O U U P U I F 1 B S J T " H S F F N F O U J T S F n F D U F E J O
its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs).
Under the NDCs, India has set ambitious targets to
address climate change while simultaneously
T V Q Q P S U J O H F D P O P N J D H S P X U I " U U I F $ 0 1 4 V N N J U J O
Glasgow in 2021, the Prime Minister presented the
m W F O F D U B S F M F N F O U T ø 1 B O D I B N S J U ø P G * O E J B T D M J N B U F
action, which includes:
i. Reaching 500GW non-fossil energy capacity
by 2030;
ii. Meeting 50 per cent of its energy requirements
from renewable energy by 2030;
iii. Reduction of total projected carbon emissions by
one billion tonnes from now to 2030;
iv. Reduction of the carbon intensity of the economy
by 45 per cent by 2030, over 2005 levels;
v. Achieving the target of net zero emissions
by 2070.
INDIA AND THE WORLD
17
India's dedication to promoting renewable energy
globally is illustrated by its founding role in the
International Solar Alliance (ISA), a coalition that aims
to accelerate solar energy deployment worldwide,
with a particular focus on developing nations that
often face challenges in adopting clean energy
technologies due to limited resources. India has
played a pivotal leadership role in the ISA's creation
and operationalisation, with the goal of enhancing
solar energy adoption in developing countries.
The Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure
(CDRI), launched by the Prime Minister in 2019, is a
* O * O E J B J O T Q J S F E C Z J U T O B U J P O B M J O J U J B U J W F - J G F T U Z M F T G P S & O W J S P O N F O U - J ' & ø B O E J U T ( 1 S F T J E F O D Z
deliverables, successfully advocated for a global resolution on sustainable lifestyles. The United Nations
Environment Assembly (UNEA) at its Sixth Session in Nairobi, Kenya, adopted this resolution on 1st March
2024. The resolution, co-sponsored by Sri Lanka and Bolivia, was supported by all participating Member
States. It recognises the potential of behavioural changes toward sustainable lifestyles, in contributing to
the achievement of the three dimensions of sustainable development.
multi-stakeholder global partnership of National
Governments, UN agencies, multilateral development
banks, the private sector and academia focused on
enhancing the resilience of infrastructure systems
against climate-related risks. CDRI supports the
SDGs, Paris Agreement and Sendai Framework by
promoting disaster-resilient infrastructure and
facilitating knowledge exchange. It was during India’s
CDRI co-chairship with the United States of America
U P U I B U U I F X P S M E h T m S T U ( M P C B M
Infrastructure Risk Model and Resilience Index was
launched. The coalition’s diverse and expanding
membership includes both economically advanced
B O E W V M O F S B C M F D P V O U S J F T S F n F D U J O H J U T H M P C B M J N Q B D U
INDIA SPONSORS HISTORIC RESOLUTION ON
¨ « … x … Á X z J ³ È ³ Á X z n 0 n X I 0 ³ Á ç n 0 ³
INDIA AND THE WORLD
18
03
CHAPTER
Consultations
with Stakeholders03
India adopted a systematic approach for preparing the
VNR report, adhering to the Secretary-General's
voluntary common reporting guidelines for VNRs and
following a whole-of-society and consultative process,
thereby ensuring that perspectives of and insights from
a wide range of stakeholders are duly taken note of.
The process, led by the Government, with NITI Aayog
as the key orchestrator, entailed a thorough review of
the nation's progress in the SDG arena. This included
recognising the key success factors and best
practices, pinpointing gaps and challenges, outlining
strategies to overcome them and addressing new and
emerging issues. The approach also recognised the
interconnections among the SDGs and the three
dimensions of sustainable development: social,
economic and environmental. It leveraged India's
CHAPTER 3: CONSULTATIONS WITH
STAKEHOLDERS
VNR 2025 ENGAGEMENTS
GLOBAL AND REGIONAL
• * O R E D O 6 X V W D L Q D E O H ' H Y H O R S P H Q W 5 H S R U W 5 H J L R Q D O G L V V H P L Q D W L R Q Z R U N V K R S I R U $ V L D D Q G W K H 3 D F L À F
• Global VNR workshops by UNDESA
• South and South-West Asia workshop on evidence- based VNRs
• ( Q J D J H P H Q W V D W $ V L D 3 D F L À F ) R U X P R Q 6 X V W D L Q D E O H ' H Y H O R S P H Q W
NATIONAL AND SUBNATIONAL GOVERNMENTS
• 6 ' * 7 D V N ) R U F H
• Regional and state SDG workshops
CIVIL SOCIETY AND PRIVATE SECTOR
• Over 30 regional and national consultations with 13 LNOB groups
• National consultation with the private sector
existing institutional framework for SDG adoption,
J N Q M F N F O U B U J P O B O E N P O J U P S J O H V U J M J T J O H P G m D J B M E B U B
from both national and/ or subnational levels, and
insights from regional and national consultations with
CSOs, NGOs, community organisations, private
sector, and sub-national and local governments.
NITI Aayog initiated the VNR 2025 process in August
2024 by developing a roadmap of the VNR preparation
process. The roadmap consisted of the various steps,
engagements and stakeholders that would together
lead to the development of the VNR report. The
following section details the key engagements, with
various stakeholders at the global, regional, national,
subnational, and local levels that provided inputs for
the report following a whole-of-government and a
whole-of-society approach.
23
GLOBAL AND REGIONAL
ENGAGEMENTS
In November 2024, India hosted the South and
South-West Asia sub-regional workshop on
Sustainable Development Goals, which presented an
opportunity to learn from other countries in the region
about evidence-based Voluntary National Reviews
(VNRs). This workshop was an associated event of
the Eighth South and South-West Multi-stakeholder
Forum on the Implementation of the Sustainable
Development Goals. It brought together
representatives from the Governments in the
sub-region, CSOs, think tanks international
organisations and offered platforms for peer learning
and knowledge exchange, especially for the
countries in the sub-region presenting their VNR in
2025, including India.
NITI Aayog and the Ministry of Statistics and
Programme Implementation (MoSPI) also participated
in the global VNR workshops conducted by UNDESA
which acted as platforms for sharing good practices
and generating ideas for comprehensive and
inclusive VNR reports.
5 I F " T J B 1 B D J m D ' P S V N P O 4 V T U B J O B C M F % F W F M P Q N F O U
2025 held in Bangkok in February 2025, offered
further opportunities to interact with countries in the
region for knowledge exchange and experience
sharing on VNRs.
DIALOGUES WITH UNION
MINISTRIES AND STATE
h ³ È z Á X … z ni
GOVERNMENTS
India created a “SDG Task Force” in the beginning of its
SDG journey to bring the relevant Union Ministries, State
Governments and think tanks together to guide the
process of SDG adoption, implementation, monitoring and
reporting. The Task Force had proven to be instrumental
during the preparation of India’s previous two VNRs. In
January 2025, a meeting of the Task Force was held in
which Ministries, States, think tanks and international
organisations participated. This platform enabled lively
discussions on the efforts of the various stakeholders,
especially the ministries and the states, in SDG
implementation through the approaches of saturation,
convergence and targeting. The discussions in the
meeting provided valuable inputs to India’s VNR process
B O E U I F D P O U F O U T P G U I F 7 / 3 S F Q P S U T Q F D J m D B M M Z U I F
initiatives by the various levels of the governments,
including their programmes and policies for SDG
implementation.
SDG workshops organised by NITI Aayog in Jaipur,
Rajasthan, in March 2024 and Bhubaneswar, Odisha, in
February 2025, provided opportunities to all the
States/UTs, who play an instrumental role in SDG
implementation, to share good practices, and learn from
each other. Presence of other stakeholders viz. the UN
agencies, NGOs and private sector organisations
enriched the discussions and learnings in these sessions.
CONSULTATIONS WITH STAKEHOLDERS
24
CONSULTATIONS WITH
CIVIL SOCIETY
Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), Non-Governmental
Organisations (NGOs), and community groups are
pivotal in advancing the SDG agenda in a
participatory manner, thereby making their
involvement extremely valuable in the VNR
preparation process. Following the approach for VNR
U I J S U F F O T Q F D J m D Q P Q V M B U J P O H S P V Q T X F S F
J E F O U J m F E G P S G P D V T F E D P O T V M U B U J P O T B E I F S J O H U P U I F
core principle of “Leaving No One Behind”. Over a
thousand CSOs participated in this consultation
process, which was organised in phases across the
country. In February and March 2025, these CSO
networks led and conducted consultations at the
regional/ state and national levels. This effort resulted
in eliciting their issues, challenges, expectations and
recommendations, providing valuable grassroots
insights that strengthen the VNR report. A summary of
the insights from each of the CSO consultations is
outlined in the following section of this chapter.
Women
Youth
and
Adolescents
Children Farmers
Forced Labour
and Human
5 S B G m D L J O H
People
living with
HIV/AIDS
Migrants
and
Urban Poor
Scheduled
Tribes and
Adivasis
Senior
Citizens
Persons
with
Disabilities
Schedules
Castes
% F O P U J m F E
Nomadic
and Semi-
Nomadic Tribes
Transgender
Persons
LNOB GROUPS CONSULTED
CONSULTATIONS WITH STAKEHOLDERS
25
CONSULTATIONS WITH THE
PRIVATE SECTOR
The achievement of the SDGs requires private sector
contribution in a “whole-of-society” approach.
Different sectors and actors can work together in an
J O U F H S B U F E N B O O F S Q P P M J O H m O B O D J B M S F T P V S D F T
knowledge and expertise. A one-day consultation on
the “Role of the Private Sector in Accelerating SDG
achievement and Towards Viksit Bharat 2047” was
conducted in February 2025 which aimed to address
the role of private sector in social impact spending,
the corporate social responsibility mandate,
philanthropy and start-up ecosystems, as well as the
lens of responsible business practices. The
consultation saw over 100 stakeholders gather,
in-person and virtually, to provide comprehensive
views. To ensure feedback from a wide range of
industry stakeholders the consultation was also
supported by surveys sent to various private sector
stakeholders as well as one-on-one meetings to solicit
B E E J U J P O B M W J F X T X I J D I G F E J O U P U I F m O B M B O B M Z T J T P G
the role of the private sector in accelerating SDG
achievement. A summary of the learnings and
recommendations from the private sector consultation
is detailed in Chapter 6.
SUMMARIES OF
CONSULTATIONS WITH 13
POPULATION GROUPS
IDENTIFIED IN THE 2025
VNR
1. People Living with HIV/AIDS
As per the India HIV Estimations 2023 report the
estimated number of people living with HIV (PLHIV) in
India is approximately 2.5 million, with concentration
amongst certain subgroups referred to as key
populations. Youth aged 15-29 account for a
T J H O J m D B O U T I B S F P G U I F " * % 4 C V S E F O J O D M V E J O H
marginalised subgroups such as adolescents,
injecting drug users and migrant workers. There has
C F F O O P U B C M F Q S P H S F T T J O U I F S F D F O U Q B T U J O U I F m H I U
against HIV/AIDS, with adult HIV prevalence recorded
at 0.2 percent and annual new HIV infections
estimated at 66,400, a 44 percent reduction since
2010, compared to the global reduction rate of 39
percent. The current situation for people living with HIV
J T Q P T J U J W F M Z J O n V F O D F E C Z U I F E F W F M P Q N F O U P G
progressive laws such as the HIV and AIDS
(Prevention and Control) Act, 2017.
Challenges
Certain stigma and discrimination are faced by People
Living with HIV/AIDS, which might occasionally result
in exclusion from education, employment and other
important avenues. The need for improved access to
better health care, including Mental Health and
Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) was
highlighted during the discussions. Issues such as
bullying, exclusion and lack of support in schools,
which can affect the right to quality education and
personal development were also mentioned. In some
workplaces, practices that negatively affect career
progression, job security and access to stable
F N Q M P Z N F O U X F S F F O D P V O U F S F E C Z 1 - ) * 7 T % J G m D V M U J F T
in accessing social welfare programmes due to lack of
awareness among PLHIVs was cited as an area of
concern.
Recommendations
The 2025 engagements reported that the provision of
care and treatment has substantially improved,
ensuring availability and coverage for most
1 - ) * 7 T ø * O J U J B U J W F T T V D I B T $ P N N V O J U Z 4 Z T U F N T
Strengthening (CSS) and Community-Led Monitoring
(CLM) support robust participation of community
members, marking a positive shift from 2020, when
district and state-level PLHIV networks lacked
adequate support and faced restricted communication
channels for community engagement.
Further, during the 2025 consultations the importance
of having clearer guidelines and accountability
N F D I B O J T N T U P F O I B O D F B X B S F O F T T B N P O H P G m D J B M T
and within society were also highlighted. It was also
noted that there is scope for increased awareness
B N P O H T U 1 - ) * 7 F Y J T U T F O B C M J O H B D D F T T U P U I F C F O F m U T
of welfare schemes. Comprehensive health care
access including services related to NCDs, sexual and
reproductive health and mental health, could be made
more widely available to PLHIV, while youth-friendly
services for young PLHIV could also be ensured. It was
suggested that continued efforts to sensitise
healthcare workers may help discrimination and stigma
to be eliminated and enrolment processes to be
T J N Q M J m F E " E E J U J P O B M M Z J U X B T F N Q I B T J T F E U I B U U I F
enforcement of anti-discrimination laws and workplace
protections should be strengthened so that job security
and career progression for PLHIV can be ensured. For
the economic empowerment of the community, the
need for accelerating skill-building initiatives for PLHIV,
particularly the youth was highlighted.
CONSULTATIONS WITH STAKEHOLDERS
26
The consultations highlighted that community’s
livelihoods in rural areas can be improved by
leveraging schemes like MGNREGS. To enhance
healthcare, the issues that limit access to health
schemes like Ayushman Bharat may be addressed.
Educational materials could be updated to ensure
U I B U E J W F S T F J E F O U J U J F T B S F S F n F D U F E B O E
comprehensive sex education could be incorporated
into curricula so that awareness is raised, stigma is
reduced and infections are prevented. To encourage
attendance at educational institutions, better
implementation of anti-bullying policies and creation
of supportive spaces for gender non-conforming
students were recommended during the consultations
to support these students. The needs of gender
non-conforming students can be addressed by
Q S P W J E J O H T Q F D J m D U S B J O J O H G P S F E V D B U P S T B O E C Z
establishing district-wise counselling systems.
Awareness about Sexual and Reproductive Health
and Rights (SRHR) programmes and support
mechanism for those affected by gender-based
violence need to be spread among transgender
community. Though the rights of the transgender
community and its decriminalisation have been
progressively recognised, there is still scope for
further sensitisation. Comprehensive information
about the social welfare schemes can be made
available at various levels.
3. Senior Citizens
As per the Report of the Technical Group on
Population Projections (July 2020) the number of
senior citizens is likely to increase to 193.4 million by
2031. This dramatic increase from the 103.8 million
T F O J P S D J U J [ F O T S F D P S E F E J O U I F ø $ F O T V T I J H I M J H I U T
the urgency of addressing issues related to
healthcare, economic security and social integration
for older adults.
Challenges
Several issues are faced by the elderly community
J O D M V E J O H M B T U N J M F J T T V F T J O B W B J M J O H U I F C F O F m U T P G
various government schemes and a lack of
awareness about new schemes. Loneliness is widely
experienced, especially in rural areas where migration
by the younger generation has occurred.
2. Transgender Persons
Among the LGBTQI+ community, the transgender
population was formally recognised in the 2011
Census under a separate category of ‘other’
alongside male and female. Transgender persons
often face discrimination, violence and atrocities,
hence need special protection in society. To ensure
their protection The Transgender Persons (Protection
of Rights) Act 2019 and Transgender Persons
(Protection of Rights) Act 2019 were introduced.
Challenges
Access to healthcare services for the transgender
community is often constrained by the limited
capacities of health care providers, social stigma and
discrimination. Additionally, national data collection
methodologies could be further enhanced to ensure
that LGBTQI+ gender segregation data is better
captured for improved healthcare provisions. Stigma
and bullying are often experienced by gender
non-conforming students and employment
opportunities outside corporate sectors are generally
limited, indicating that targeted skill development
programmes, non-discrimination policies and
diversity hiring initiatives are needed. Development
P G T Q F D J m D M F H B M Q S P U F D U J P O T D B O N J O J N J T F
discrimination and exclusion to a great extent. Greater
stigma and fewer opportunities are experienced by
LGBTQI+ individuals in rural areas compared to their
urban counterparts. Requirement of adequate social
support systems for elderly LGBTQI+ individuals was
also underscored during the consultations.
Recommendations
Compared to 2020, communities reported progress in
the recognition and inclusion of transgender
individuals, particularly through the enactment of the
Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act in
2019. Furthermore, the SMILE (Support for
Marginalised Individuals for Livelihood and
Enterprise) Scheme has facilitated the establishment
of Transgender Protection Cells at both State and
District levels, along with a Transgender Welfare
Board at the State level. Initiatives such as the
National Portal for Transgender Persons and the
SMILE Portal have been launched to facilitate
T F M G J E F O U J m D B U J P O B O E B D D F T T U P H P W F S O N F O U
services, including safe housing, counselling and skill
development. These developments signal a shift
towards legal and social inclusion addressing some of
the issues highlighted in 2020.
CONSULTATIONS WITH STAKEHOLDERS
27
Cyber abuse is also faced by the elderly,
necessitating that digital training be provided and
user-friendly apps be created to safeguard against
cybercrime. In some urban areas, lack of
elderly-friendly transportation and infrastructure was
D J U F E B T B T J H O J m D B O U D I B M M F O H F G P S N P C J M J U Z 5 I F B C J M J U Z
P G N B O Z F M E F S M Z U P B D D F T T I F B M U I D B S F B O E U I F C F O F m U T
of social security schemes are constrained by limited
digital literacy.
Recommendations
Since 2020, there has been notable improvements in
their situation driven by government initiatives such as
Atal Vayo Abhyudaya Yojana (AVYAY), an umbrella
scheme that has components like the State Action
Plan for Senior Citizens and an Integrated Programme
for Senior Citizens scheme that is helping in setting up
of Homes to improve the quality of life of the Senior
Citizens. Additionally, the establishment of Senior
Able Citizens for Re-Employment in Dignity (SACRED)
portal has enhanced access to re-employment
P Q Q P S U V O J U J F T 5 I F ø " Z V T I N B O # I B S B U 1 S B E I B O . B O U S J
Jan Arogya Yojana has also been expanded to
provide health coverage to all the senior citizens aged
70 years and above, regardless of their income. The
F Y Q B O T J P O J T T F U U P C F O F m U B S P V O E N J M M J P O G B N J M J F T
including 60 million senior citizens, by providing them
with free health insurance coverage of up to 0.5
N J M M J P O Q F S G B N J M Z ø
Awareness campaigns to improve knowledge about
social schemes would help in better access and
utilisation of the schemes by the elderly. With the
government’s growing focus on geriatric care,
especially for non-communicable diseases, there was
a suggestion to provide specialised training and
capacity building of health care providers, which
would help in enhancing the quality of life of the
elderly. Inclusion of elderly care in the school curricula
may help ensure that greater care and respect for
older persons are fostered.
CONSULTATIONS WITH STAKEHOLDERS
28
Recommendations
The stakeholders felt that further strengthening of strict
enforcement of regulatory provisions is important so that
agencies such as AHTUs continue to act swiftly in the
J E F O U J m D B U J P O B O E Q S P T F D V U J P O P G U S B G m D L J O H D B T F T X J U I
U S B G m D L F S T C F J O H Q F O B M J T F E 4 U S F O H U I F O J O H U I F % J T U S J D U
Task Forces (DTFs), which act as key mechanisms for
coordinating inter-agency responses to forced and child
labour could be considered. Additionally, better
integrating efforts among different departments, child
protection units, and law enforcement agencies may
I F M Q U P Q S F W F O U U S B G m D L J O H B O E N P S F F G G F D U J W F M Z B E E S F T T
related issues. Cases of forced labour and child
U S B G m D L J O H B S F T P N F U J N F T G P V O E U P J O W P M W F P S H B O J T F E
networks spanning across state borders, for which
support at the national level may be required.
Raising awareness within communities along with
providing economic and social protection for families
who are at risk is important. Rehabilitation efforts that
focus on sustainable livelihoods may further support the
elimination of forced labour. Sensitisation of the private
sector in enforcing due diligence within supply chains
could be considered as it helps ensure that businesses
do not engage in child or forced labour. Additionally, the
regulation of placement agencies could be
implemented to prevent fraudulent recruitment
practices that can contribute to forced labour.
5. Migrants and Urban Poor
. J H S B O U T D P O U J O V F U P D P O U S J C V U F T J H O J m D B O U M Z U P L F Z
sectors such as construction, manufacturing and
domestic work. Post-COVID-19, there has been
increased visibility of internal migration and government
policy interventions aimed at addressing the needs of
migrants. Despite these efforts, many migrants remain
unregistered, resulting in the denial of labour rights and
T P D J B M T F D V S J U Z C F O F m U T 5 I F D P O T V M U B U J P O I J H I M J H I U F E U I F
need for a collaborative approach involving the
government, civil society, businesses, and migrants
themselves to build inclusive and resilient cities.
Challenges
Migrants sometimes face challenges such as
inadequate housing with limited secure storage. The
lack of accessible childcare can result in work
responsibilities being taken on by older children.
) R U F H G / D E R X U D Q G + X P D Q 7 U D I À F N L Q J
Article 23(1) of the Indian Constitution prohibits forced
labour reinforced by the Bonded Labour System
" C P M J U J P O " D U 5 I F * N N P S B M 5 S B G m D 1 S F W F O U J P O
Act, 1956, the Bonded Labour System (Abolition) Act,
1976, the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences
(POCSO) Act, 2012, and the Child and Adolescent
Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Act, 1986,
Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection) Act, 2000 (JJ
Act) collectively strengthen India’s legal framework
B H B J O T U G P S D F E M B C P V S B O E I V N B O U S B G m D L J O H
Additionally, Section 143 of the Bharatiya Nyaya
Sanhita (BNS), 2023 provides penal provisions for
T U S J D U Q V O J T I N F O U G P S B O Z P G G F O D F P G I V N B O U S B G m D L J O H
Section 144(1) of the BNS provides for the strict
punishment for the offence of sexual exploitation of
U S B G m D L F E D I J M E S F O
There have been proactive government measures to
combat the challenges of forced labour and human
U S B G m D L J O H " O U J ) V N B O 5 S B G m D L J O H 6 O J U T " ) 5 6 T
have been established across the country.
Collaboration with key institutions such as the National
Commission for Protection of Child Rights and the
National Human Rights Commission have further
S F J O G P S D F E F G G P S U T U P D P N C B U U S B G m D L J O H $ P P Q F S B U J P O
with neighbouring countries is being strengthened for
U B D L M J O H D S P T T C P S E F S U S B G m D L J O H 1 S P W J E J O H J N N F E J B U F
support to rescued children and workers, increased
collaboration among law enforcement agencies and
long-term rehabilitation programmes are
strengthening the overall response to human
U S B G m D L J O H B O E S F J O U F H S B U J P O
Challenges
Recognising the support being provided, the
stakeholders from CSOs mentioned that poverty, lack
of livelihood opportunities and limited awareness of
available job opportunities and safer migration
pathways could push vulnerable groups, particularly
X P N F O D I J M E S F O B O E S F G V H F F T J O U P U S B G m D L J O H G P S
exploitation including forced labour. The increasing
use of digital platforms to lure and deceive victims has
N B E F U S B G m D L J O H M F T T W J T J C M F X J U I N B O Z D B T F T H P J O H
undetected. Displacement due to climate-induced
E J T B T U F S T B O E D P O n J D U T M F B W F N J H S B O U T F Y Q P T F E U P
U S B G m D L J O H O F U X P S L T B T X F M M B T G P S D F E M B C P V S
CONSULTATIONS WITH STAKEHOLDERS
29
Receiving fair wages in line with the Minimum Wages
Act, excessive working hours, delayed payments and
exploitative labour practices are issues that are
sometimes faced by migrants. The growing
complexity of employer-employee relationships
including contract and subcontract arrangements
can make it harder for migrants to assert their rights.
In high-risk sectors, proper protective equipment and
access to healthcare are sometimes not provided,
J O E J D B U J O H U I B U T F D U P S T Q F D J m D T B G F U Z T U B O E B S E T B O E
regular medical check-ups could be considered.
Recommendations
Since 2020, the situation of migrants and the urban
poor in India has improved. Earlier the lack of
portability of government entitlements like the Public
Distribution System (PDS) restricted migrants’ access
to food and rations. By 2025, this issue has been
addressed. The One Nation One Ration Card scheme
I B T F O B C M F E P W F S D S P S F C F O F m D J B S J F T U P B D D F T T
subsidised food grains from any PDS shop across
India, ensuring food security regardless of location.
Affordable Rental Housing Complexes (ARHCs)
under PMAY have converted vacant
government-funded housing into rental units and
encouraged private sector involvement to build
affordable housing near employment hubs. This has
reduced commute burdens and improved living
conditions, addressing the lack of affordable housing
near workplaces. Additionally, the 2020 consultations
also highlighted the lack of social security for informal
workers. By 2025, the e-Shram Portal, with over 280
million registrations, has integrated unorganised
workers into a national database, facilitating access to
T P D J B M T F D V S J U Z T D I F N F T E J S F D U C F O F m U U S B O T G F S T B O E
J O T V S B O D F D P W F S B H F N B S L J O H T J H O J m D B O U Q S P H S F T T J O
addressing these vulnerabilities.
To promote effective coordination, the possibility of
establishing a national mechanism to help oversee
interstate collaborations has been proposed by
stakeholders. It is also suggested that it might be
C F O F m D J B M U P F O T V S F U I B U S F O U B M I P V T J O H E P S N J U P S J F T
and temporary shelters meet appropriate sanitation
and safety standards. Partnerships with the private
sector could be encouraged so that the availability of
affordable rental accommodations is increased. The
F 4 I S B N $ B S E J O J U J B U J W F J T S F D P H O J T F E B T B T J H O J m D B O U
step towards ensuring social security for unorganised
workers and it has been suggested by stakeholders
that state-level welfare board schemes be
strengthened and the portability of social protection
coverage be enhanced to improve effectiveness.
" E E J U J P O B M M Z U I F E F W F M P Q N F O U P G T F D U P S T Q F D J m D T B G F U Z
standards and the provision of free medical
check-ups and health cards for migrant workers, as
well as the extension of government healthcare
services to migrants in destination cities could
contribute positively to their health and well-being.
6. Scheduled Tribes and Adivasis
Scheduled Tribes (STs) in India constituting
approximately 8.6 percent of the population have
historically faced socio-economic issues including
poverty, limited access to education and healthcare
and social discrimination. Since 2020, there have
been notable improvements in their situation driven by
due to government initiatives such as the Pradhan
Mantri JANMAN Yojana which have enhanced access
to basic amenities, healthcare and education for tribal
D P N N V O J U J F T 4 J H O J m D B O U Q S P H S F T T I B T C F F O N B E F J O
recognising Adivasi rights through Scheduled Tribes
and Other Tribal Forest Dwellers (Recognition of
Forest Rights) Act, 2006 (FRA) and Panchayats
(Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act, 1996 (PESA),
though implementation could be strengthened further.
Increased awareness and advocacy efforts have led
to better representation in some areas. Despite these
advancements, issues in accessing basic services,
natural resources and sustainable livelihoods persist.
The erosion of traditional knowledge and cultural
practices is a concern.
Challenges
Scheduled Tribes rely on traditional agriculture and
forest-based activities for their livelihoods but face
limited access to markets. Many migrate due to the
lack of local employment opportunities at their native
place. Although initiatives like the Mahatma Gandhi
National Rural Employment Guarantee Act
(MGNREGA) address this issue, awareness about
other government schemes pertaining to the skill and
entrepreneurship development could help in better
employment opportunities. Enhanced promotion of
traditional livelihoods such as handicrafts and
traditional medicine can help preserve their cultural
heritage. In addition, preservation of indigenous food
systems and ecological knowledge need to be
strengthened.
CONSULTATIONS WITH STAKEHOLDERS
30
Recommendations
To encourage the development and empowerment of
Scheduled Tribe and Adivasi communities the
integration of indigenous knowledge into educational
D V S S J D V M B N B Z C F C F O F m D J B M & O I B O D J O H M P D B M
healthcare centres, involving trained Adivasi health
workers and extending the reach of mobile health
units to remote villages could help improve access to
healthcare. Further, the strengthening of rural roads,
electricity and sanitation facilities may be undertaken
to contribute to better infrastructure. Supporting
agroforestry and afforestation initiatives and
promoting community-led water conservation efforts could help protect natural resources. Enterprises based on non-timber forest products could be strengthened, skill development programmes could be aligned with Adivasi knowledge systems, and X F M G B S F C F O F m U T G P S N J H S B U J O H G B N J M J F T D P V M E C F ensured to open up economic opportunities. Legal recognition for traditional knowledge, weaving indigenous knowledge into school curricula and helping establish market connections for crafts, food products and herbal medicines may also play a valuable role in preserving cultural heritage.
CONSULTATIONS WITH STAKEHOLDERS
31
7. Children
According to UNICEF, India is home to 436.6 million
children under 18. The core legislation for child
protection in India is enshrined in four main laws: The
Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection) Act (amended in
2021); the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act (2006); the
Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act
(amended in 2019) and the Child Labour (Prohibition
and Regulation) Act (1986, amended in 2016). Recent
children-centric government policies and programmes
include the National Education Policy, 2020, Pradhan
Mantri Schools for Rising India (PM SHRI), Samagra
Shiksha Abhiyan and Pradhan Mantri Poshan Shakti
Nirman (PM POSHAN), among others.
Challenges
4 J H O J m D B O U Q S P H S F T T I B T C F F O N B E F J O * O E J B P O T F W F S B M
child-related SDG targets, though some gaps can be
observed. Indicators like anaemia among children,
learning outcomes in education and crimes against
D I J M E S F O N B Z C F O F m U G S P N S F O F X F E B U U F O U J P O 5 I F
rural-urban disparities and differences across
socio-economic groups are highlighted by some
indicators and may require additional focus. Although
laws and programmes aimed at child protection are in
place further strengthening of implementation is
required. In the case of POCSO (Protection of Children
from Sexual Offences) cases improved access to
justice has been noted; however, overall systemic
support for victims and their families can be further
enhanced. While sexual abuse of girls is addressed
under the POCSO Act, stigma and denial continue to be
issues in cases involving boys. Cyber abuse among
children is increasingly being recognised as a concern.
Mental health is being regarded as an increasingly
important issue. Need for development of
comprehensive data systems, particularly on child
protection, and generation of data disaggregated by
social groups were highlighted in the consultation.
Recommendations
It was felt by the stakeholders that data systems could
be strengthened particularly through inclusion of more
detailed information on socio-economic status and
disability, which can help create more inclusive policies.
5 I F T J N Q M J m D B U J P O P G E P D V N F O U B U J P O J T T F F O B T I B W J O H
the potential to make access to education easier for
children from vulnerable communities, including those
who are on the move. Training on equity, inclusion and
non-discrimination could be received by teachers to
better support students, with special attention being
given to children with HIV/AIDS. Inclusion of gender
equality lessons in textbooks and integration of related
themes into the curriculum can promote awareness.
Early childhood development and balanced nutrition
could also be regarded as important steps in
addressing malnutrition.
The improvement of child protection laws and their
enforcement is considered important for keeping
children safe at school. The streamlining of child
I F M Q M J O F T B O E U I F U J N F M Z S F Q P S U J O H P G U S B G m D L J O H D B T F T
can help ensure that timely support is provided. Simple
and safe ways to report gender-based violence are
likely to encourage help-seeking by victims. Continuous
monitoring, building of skills among frontline workers
and the involvement of children in planning and
decision-making were seen as ways in which
programme governance can be further strengthened.
CONSULTATIONS WITH STAKEHOLDERS
32
8. Persons with Disabilities
India has adopted a rights-based approach for
Persons with Disabilities (PwDs). The Rights of
Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 (RPD) provides
legal equality and protection against discrimination.
3 1 % J T B T J H O J m D B O U T I J G U G S P N U I F 1 F S T P O T X J U I
Disabilities (Equal Opportunities, Protection of Rights
and Full Participation) Act, 1995 as it provides various
rights and entitlements to persons with disabilities
such as right to equality and non-discrimination,
community life, protection from cruelty, abuse,
violence and inhuman treatment, access to justice,
home and family and reproductive rights, and creation
P G C B S S J F S G S F F F O W J S P O N F O U G P S 1 X % T ø 0 U I F S
supportive legislative instruments include the
Rehabilitation Council of India Act, 1992, the National
Trust for the Welfare of Persons with Autism, Cerebral
Palsy, Mental Retardation and Multiple Disabilities Act,
1999, the Mental Healthcare Act (MHCA), 2017, the
Right to Education Act (RTE), 2009 and the Protection
of Children from Sexual Offences Act, 2012. Policies
and schemes that focus on children with disabilities
include the Inclusive Education for Disabled at
Secondary Stage (IEDSS) scheme and the National
Education Policy, 2020. The Indira Gandhi National
Disability Pension Scheme (IGNDPS) aims to support
PwDs below the poverty line. The Accessible India
Campaign (Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan) is a nationwide
n B H T I J Q J O J U J B U J W F M B V O D I F E J O B O E B J N F E B U
achieving universal accessibility. Additionally, in the
last two decades the Supreme Court of India has
Q B T T F E T J H O J m D B O U K V E H N F O U T B E W B O D J O H U I F S J H I U T P G
PwDs on a range of issues.
Challenges
While a number of acts, policies and schemes are in
place in support of the Rights of Persons with
Disabilities Act, it has been described by the Supreme
Court of India that implementation could be
strengthened. Some gaps are observed in public,
healthcare and educational infrastructure, which may
result in limitations on mobility and access to essential
T F S W J D F T 3 F R V J S F N F O U P G T V G m D J F O U O V N C F S P G U S B J O F E
special educators and skill development programmes
have been cited to ensure better access of education
and vocational training. Issues related to accessing
water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) services are
sometimes encountered by certain groups, such as
women, girls and individuals with high support needs.
It was mentioned by stakeholders that even when
data is available, disaggregation by disability is often
lacking.
Recommendations
The 2020 engagements highlighted the necessity to
B E F R V B U F M Z B E E S F T T U I F T Q F D J m D O F F E T P G T U V E F O U T
with disabilities through the National Education Policy
(NEP). The 2025 consultations noted positive
Q S P H S F T T X J U I U I F 4 V Q S F N F $ P V S U S F B G m S N J O H U I F
rights of persons with disabilities (PwDs) to a
reasonable accommodation in education. This ruling
struck down outdated exclusionary rules for medical
admissions and emphasised functional assessment
over rigid disability criteria. Additionally, compared to
2020 there have been improvements in inclusion
within government schemes, with policies in States
like Bihar and Uttarakhand providing increased
support for startups and self-employment initiatives
involving PwDs.
The need for strengthening the enforcement of
disability rights and enhancement of data systems
were underscored for shaping effective evidence
based policies. Greater accessibility in public
infrastructure and transport can be promoted to
improve access to education, healthcare, and
employment opportunities. The capacities of
educators, healthcare providers, judiciary, and law
enforcement may be built through training, and the
extension of social protection to include rehabilitation
can offer more comprehensive care. Giving special
attention to girls and women with disabilities could
help ensure safe access to services and protection
from violence, with crisis centres being made more
accessible and appropriate training being provided to
staff. Additionally, the needs of PwDs may be
incorporated into disaster preparedness to promote
safety and well-being. Digital inclusion for PwDs could
be increased and processes for obtaining Unique
% J T B C J M J U Z * % 6 % * % D F S U J m D B U J P O B O E " B E I B B S N B Z C F
streamlined, particularly by addressing accessibility
features at enrolment centres. Finally, the ongoing
sensitisation and training for law enforcement and
K V E J D J B M P G m D J B M T N J H I U I F M Q U P F O T V S F U I B U
disability-related cases receive appropriate attention.
9. Women
The Constitution of India establishes a clear mandate
for equality, non-discrimination and social justice.
* O E J B I B T B M T P S B U J m F E N V M U J Q M F J O U F S O B U J P O B M
conventions that have a bearing on gender equality
viz. the Universal Declaration of Human Rights
(UDHR), 1948; Convention on Elimination of all Forms
of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW), 1979;
CONSULTATIONS WITH STAKEHOLDERS
33
the strengthening of barrier-free social protection for
marginalised women and gender-diverse workers are
considered important. Investment in
sex-disaggregated data could offer valuable insights
to address disparities.
Alternative approaches to implementing POSH for
women in informal work, both rural and urban could
be considered. Giving attention to the gendered
impact of AI and new technologies on work could
guide more equitable policies. Online gender-based
violence, covering cyber grooming, sextortion and
digital harassment are emerging concerns which
need attention. The integration of health and livelihood
concerns of migrant and vulnerable women into
climate change policies might help address
disproportionate risks. A rights-based and
choice-based framework in gender equality laws,
including equitable natal and marital property rights,
N B Z C F B E P Q U F E U P C F O F m U X P N F O B O E
gender-diverse persons. Availability of care
infrastructure could help support more women to shift
toward employment generation activities promoting
women-led development.
10. Farmers
4 J O D F U I F S F I B W F C F F O T J H O J m D B O U
improvements driven by government initiatives such
as the PM-KISAN scheme, which provides income
support, and the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana,
which offers crop insurance. Additionally, the
enhancement of institutional credit and the growth in
agricultural exports have contributed to better
m O B O D J B M T U B C J M J U Z G P S G B S N F S T % F T Q J U F U I F T F
advancements, persistent issues such as fragmented
M B O E I P M E J O H T X B U F S T D B S D J U Z N B S L F U J O F G m D J F O D J F T
inadequate storage and transportation facilities and
soil degradation continue to hinder progress.
Challenges
The protection of common lands, water resources,
and grazing lands are considered crucial for
livelihood security of farmers. Issues with access to
credit are experienced by small farmers and the
F Y Q B O T J P O P G N J D S P m O B O D F B O E D P N N V O J U Z C B T F E
credit systems might be a possible solution. Better
infrastructure support, including roads, cold storage
and processing units, was suggested for market
linkages and value-chain enhancement. Pastoral
communities that face fodder insecurity impressed
upon the recognition of pastoralism in policy
International Conference on Population and
Development Programme of Action (ICPD-POA),
1994; The Beijing Platform for Action, 1995; and the
Convention on Rights of the Child (CRC), 1989.
Challenges
% F T Q J U F B G m S N B U J W F B D U J P O C F J O H V O E F S U B L F O C Z U I F
government, deep-rooted patriarchal norms are still
prevalent in various forms in the Indian society. In
2022, it was observed that 48.4 percent of women
were not in education, employment, or training
(NEET), compared to only 9.8 percent of young men.
. F O U B M I F B M U I J T C F J O H J E F O U J m F E B T B O B S F B P G D P O D F S O
for women and requires attention. Non-communicable
diseases and Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights
4 3 ) 3 B S F S F H B S E F E B T P U I F S B S F B T X J U I T J H O J m D B O U
gender implications. In formal sector organisations
Internal Committees (IC) have been formed under the
POSH (Prevention of Sexual Harassment of Women at
Workplace) Act to address sexual harassment at the
workplace; however, a proper understanding of the
law is often not held by the committees. More focused
attention is needed to curb crime against women.
Legal and policy responses to cases of violence need
to address the root causes of violence and the needs
of the survivor. Increasing budgeting for women and
generation of gender-disaggregated data are seen as
D S P T T D V U U J O H N F B T V S F T U I B U N B Z J O n V F O D F Q S P H S F T T
on all SDGs.
Recommendations
Since the last VNR in 2020 a commitment towards
improving women’s representation in legislature has
been demonstrated by India with the passage of the
Women’s Reservation Bill in 2023. Programmes for
X P N F O T m O B O D J B M J O D M V T J P O D S F E J U B D D F T T B O E
entrepreneurship, housing and access to safe
drinking water and cooking fuel have been prioritised.
Through these initiatives, there has been a positive
shift in addressing women’s issues highlighted in
2020, such as the lack of recognition of discrimination
and violence faced by women and the need for
gender-responsive budgeting, has been observed.
Stakeholders noted that outcomes could be improved
by enhancing the budget support for adolescent
I F B M U I 4 3 ) 3 N F O U B M I F B M U I B O E H F O E F S B G m S N B U J W F
care. Gender sensitisation among healthcare
personnel, judiciary and law enforcement is regarded
as important. Prioritising access for vulnerable
women,especially in remote areas, helps ensure inclusivity.
Support for women in overcoming the digital divide and
CONSULTATIONS WITH STAKEHOLDERS
34
2017, address adolescent health challenges including
reproductive and sexual health, nutrition and
psychological problems. Social protection laws like the
Juvenile Justice Act, Prohibition of Child Marriage Act
and Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act aim
to safeguard young people. Employment and
entrepreneurship opportunities are promoted through
policies like the National Apprenticeship Policy, Atal
Tinkering Labs and National Career Services Portal,
while civic participation is encouraged through
programmes like the National Service Scheme and
Nehru Yuva Kendra Sangathan. Other schemes like PM
SHRI, Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan and various
scholarship programmes focus on retaining young
people in school, especially girls and marginalised
groups.
Challenges
Comprehensive health interventions in schools help not
only in ensuring healthy but also better health aware
future citizens. This can be ensured both in government
and private schools and colleges. Improvement of
working conditions in the informal sector facilitating
transition in work and aligning training programmes with
the evolving job markets are some of the important steps
for enhancing youth employability. Enhancing
participation of women in the work force and mitigating
impact of climate change on future prospects of youth
B S F T P N F P G U I F P U I F S B S F B T U I B U D P V M E C F O F m U G S P N
focused attention.
Recommendations
In 2020, vocational and skills-based training had limited
reach with particularly low participation among
marginalised communities and young women. By 2025,
skill development programmes have been expanded
T J H O J m D B O U M Z X J U I U B S H F U F E T D I F N F T G P S J N Q S P W J O H B D D F T T
for these marginalised groups. Similarly, youth mental
health, which was not being adequately addressed in
2020 despite growing concerns saw notable progress
by 2025 through the implementation of National and
State initiatives such as helplines, school-based
counselling programmes and peer-support networks,
S F n F D U J O H B Q P T J U J W F J O T U J U V U J P O B M T I J G U U P X B S E S F D P H O J T J O H
and addressing the psychosocial needs of adolescents
and young people.
School and higher education curriculum need to be
updated regularly to promote holistic education
including soft skills and global skills. Parent advisory
groups are required to be mainstreamed across
school administration systems. Efforts to build
frameworks. Issues related to legal protection, climate
D I B O H F J N Q B D U T B O E J M M F H B M m T I J O H Q S B D U J D F T B S F
F O D P V O U F S F E C Z m T I F S Z D P N N V O J U Z 3 F D P H O J U J P O P G
land ownership rights and access to women-friendly
N B D I J O F S Z X F S F J T T V F T J E F O U J m F E C Z X P N F O G B S N F S T
Recommendations
The promotion of multi-cropping and traditional
cropping systems, the improvement of access to
climate-resilient farm technologies and the expansion
of targeted credit programmes were recommended
as policy priorities. The strengthening of market
linkages can be supported through the development
of infrastructure, encouragement of e-commerce and
building of capacity for value addition. Water
management practices need to further integrate local
ecological knowledge.
5 I F G B S N F S T G F M U U I B U U I F F Y Q B O T J P O P G N J D S P m O B O D F
through community-based credit systems like SHGs,
the use of credit scoring models for borrowers with
M J N J U F E G P S N B M m O B O D J B M I J T U P S Z B O E U I F D P O U J O V F E
encouragement of entrepreneurship through
schemes such as Stand-Up India and Startup India
D P V M E I B W F B O J N Q B D U " E E J U J P O B M M Z U I F m O B O D J B M
empowerment of women farmers could be supported
through targeted credit programmes and by assisting
Farmer Producing Organisations (FPOs) in arranging
working capital or interest-free loans. The promotion
of innovation and gender-friendly post-harvest
machinery is seen as a way to help reduce the burden
on women and align with FPO marketing cycles. It
was highlighted by farmers that the strengthening of
supply chains for diverse grains and the
establishment of community-managed seed banks,
bio-input resource centres and custom hiring centres
could further support the shift to climate-resilient
agro-ecological practices.
11. Youth and Adolescents
India has the largest youth population in the world with
about 65% of its people under the age of 35. The
Government has aligned its adolescent and youth
centric policies with the SDG framework. Key
initiatives include the National Youth Policy, 2014,
which aims to empower youth to achieve their full
potential by focusing on education, employment, skill
development and health. The National Education
Policy, 2020, aims to increase the Gross Enrolment
Ratio in higher education to 50 percent by 2035.
Health initiatives such as the National Health Policy,
CONSULTATIONS WITH STAKEHOLDERS
35
evidence in sectors expected to create jobs in the
future and the revision of the National Skill
Development Corporation’s (NSDC) skill gap analysis
may be worth considering. Integration of Vocational
training into the school curriculum and creation of
career progression pathways for youth leaders will
enhance entrepreneurship. Adolescent-responsive
health services may be provided and helpline
numbers may be made responsive and functional.
Youth participation in local governance structures
could be strengthened and peer educators could be
empowered to advocate for change.
The strengthening of youth participation in local
governance structures and the empowerment of peer
educators to advocate for change may also be
advantageous. Youth exposure to policymaking
processes at the Panchayat and block levels may be
facilitated and training in green jobs could be
provided. In climate action initiatives, the
enhancement of community awareness and
communication regarding the relevant government
schemes might be prioritised.
12. Scheduled Castes
Scheduled Castes (SCs) in India having been
historically marginalised have faced socio-economic
challenges. Persistent efforts have been made over the
years to improve their social and economic conditions.
Since 2020, there have been notable improvements in
their position due to initiatives like the Development
Action Plan for Scheduled Castes (DAPSC) and
increased representation in government jobs. These
efforts have led to better access to basic amenities,
educational opportunities and economic upliftment.
Challenges
The challenges faced by the SC communities, inter-alia
include lack of awareness about healthcare provisions
and lack of access to clean water and sanitation.
Education programmes like the PM-Poshan and
scholarships for SC students aim to improve educational
outcomes, but high dropout rates, especially among
Dalit girls continue to be observed. Employment related
challenges include low wages, poor working conditions
and limited opportunities for skill development and
entrepreneurship. Health risks such as manual
scavenging might be faced by SC workers in informal
sectors where social protection is often lacking.
Recommendations
The 2020 community engagements had emphasised
the lack of disaggregated data for tracking SDG
progress among SC subgroups which hindered
targeted interventions. By 2025, the Ministry of
Statistics and Program Implementation has engaged
civil society organisations to enhance data collection
N F U I P E P M P H J F T G P D V T J O H P O 4 $ T Q F D J m D
disaggregated data aligning with the 2020
recommendation for community-led data generation.
Need for promotion of awareness about health rights
and government schemes have been highlighted to
empower the community. Allowance of alternative
access to healthcare schemes without primary
documents might be considered. Continuing to
T U S F O H U I F O B D D F T T U P m O B O D J B M J O T U J U V U J P O T B O E
improving banking infrastructure in rural areas may
support livelihood development. Skill development
and entrepreneurship programmes tailored to SC
communities might be introduced to increase
employment opportunities. Implementation of
measurable targets within government schemes and
F O T V S J O H U I B U C F O F m U T S F B D I N B S H J O B M J T F E H S P V Q T
could further strengthen economic inclusion and
growth of these communities. Free sanitary pads and
menstrual hygiene products might be provided to SC
women and girls to help improve reproductive health
and hygiene. The use of alternative energy and
climate-resilient agricultural practices among SC
communities can be promoted, and access to
resources for climate adaptation may be facilitated to
support their resilience and well-being.
' H Q R W L À H G 1 R P D G L F D Q G
Semi-nomadic Tribes
% F O P U J m F E / P N B E J D B O E 4 F N J O P N B E J D 5 S J C F T
(DNTs) in India, marginalised and stigmatised as
"criminals" under colonial laws struggle with issues
such as lack of access to education, healthcare and
secure livelihoods. Since 2020, there have been
notable improvements in their situation, driven by
initiatives like the Scheme for Economic
Empowerment of DNT Communities (SEED), which
provides health insurance, livelihood support and
educational opportunities.
Challenges
DNT communities face issues in accessing
education, healthcare and legal services. Lack of
particularly for girls. Employment and skill training
P Q Q P S U V O J U J F T J O U S B E J U J P O B M m F M E T T V D I B T U S B J O J O H stone workers in modern machinery for infrastructure projects or connecting Mahua (local alcohol) producers with pharmaceutical companies for medicinal purposes can be considered. Provisions for regular localised camps at the district level to issue essential documents, including caste and domicile D F S U J m D B U F T X P V M E G B D J M J U B U F % / 5 D P N N V O J U J F T B D D F T T to government schemes and services. The stakeholders recommended expanding Rajasthan’s MNREGA-linked folk artist employment model to national level and engaging DNT artists to perform in D P M M F H F T H P W F S O N F O U P G m D F T T D I P P M T B O E I P T Q J U B M T to promote both employment security and cultural preservation. These initiatives might lead to more stable income opportunities while helping to maintain and celebrate cultural heritage.
CONSULTATIONS WITH STAKEHOLDERS
36
awareness about access to residential schools and
reserved seats in existing schools for DNT children,
especially girls, limit their educational opportunities.
Additionally, the absence of essential identity documents
T V D I B T D B T U F B O E E P N J D J M F D F S U J m D B U F T G V S U I F S
N B S H J O B M J T F T % / 5 D P N N V O J U J F T N B L J O H J U E J G m D V M U G P S
them to access government schemes and services.
Recommendations
The 2025 consultations highlighted new initiatives such
as Rajasthan’s expanded MNREGA-linked folk artist
employment model which aims to provide employment
security and preserve cultural traditions, directly
addressing the earlier VNR consultation concerns about
recognising and supporting traditional skills and
livelihoods. To enhance educational outcomes for DNT
children providing access to DNT students in existing
ashram schools up to class 10 may be considered. Such
measures could improve access to quality education
and create a supportive learning environment,
particularly for girls. Employment and
skill training
P Q Q P S U V O J U J F T J O U S B E J U J P O B M m F M E T T V D I B T U S B J O J O H
stone workers in modern machinery for infrastructure
projects or connecting Mahua (local alcohol)
producers with pharmaceutical companies for
medicinal purposes can be considered. Provisions for
regular localised camps at the district level to issue
essential documents, including caste and domicile
D F S U J m D B U F T X P V M E G B D J M J U B U F % / 5 D P N N V O J U J F T B D D F T T
to government schemes and services. The
stakeholders recommended expanding Rajasthan’s
MNREGA-linked folk artist employment model to
national level and engaging DNT artists to perform in
D P M M F H F T H P W F S O N F O U P G m D F T T D I P P M T B O E I P T Q J U B M T
to promote both employment security and cultural
preservation. These initiatives might lead to more
stable income opportunities while helping to maintain
and celebrate cultural heritage.
CONSULTATIONS WITH STAKEHOLDERS
37
04
CHAPTER
04 India on the Move:
Progress on SDGs
With worldwide progress on Agenda 2030 in jeopardy,
India’s resilience to global headwinds and its steadfast
commitment to sustainable development has seen the
country emerge as a major driver of SDGs progress
C P U I S F H J P O B M M Z B O E H M P C B M M Z 0 W F S U I F M B T U m W F Z F B S T
since India’s last Voluntary National Review in 2020, a
series of overlapping and cascading crises have
derailed SDG progress globally along a wide range of
dimensions. The COVID-19 pandemic, rising
geopolitical tensions, climate-related disruptions and
economic headwinds have disrupted global
development across multiple dimensions.
India’s approach has been characterised by a deep
commitment to inclusive growth, Cooperative and
Competitive Federalism and environmental
sustainability. A strong macroeconomic foundation, a
robust digital public infrastructure and innovative
Figure 3: SDG Goal Wise Performance
social protection systems have enabled the country to
counter external shocks while maintaining steady
progress towards the SDGs. Targeted national initiatives
such as Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, Ayushman
Bharat-PMJAY, Ujjwala Yojana, Swachh Bharat
Abhiyan, PM-Mudra Yojana, Saubhagya and Start-up
India have contributed to the improvements in basic
T F S W J D F T M J W F M J I P P E T I F B M U I B O E m O B O D J B M J O D M V T J P O
4 % ( * O E J B * O E F Y 3 F Q P S U S F n F D U T U I J T U S B K F D U P S Z B T
the country’s composite score has steadily improved
from 57 in 2018 to 71 in 2023–24. This progress is
particularly visible in Goals such as No Poverty (Goal
1), Good Health and Well-being (Goal 3), Clean Water
and Sanitation (Goal 6), Affordable and Clean Energy
(Goal 7), Industry, innovation and Infrastructure (Goal
9) and Sustainable Cities and Communities (Goal 11).Source: SDG India Index 2023-24
100
90
80
70
60
50
40
30
20
10
0
2023-24
2020-21
2019-20
2018
72
60
50
54
52
47
35
48
77
74
61
52
61
57
58
58
49
48
42
36
68
61
64
65
89 83 88 63 96 92 70 61
61 55 65 44
65 67 52 71 83 79 53 39 78 74 55
67 54 50
75 66 66 90
74 74 72 71
Aspirant (0-49) Performer (50-64) Front Runner (65-99) Achiever (100)
SDG 1 SDG 2 SDG 3 SDG 4 SDG 5 SDG 6 SDG 7 SDG 8 SDG 9 SDG 10 SDG 11 SDG 12 SDG 13 SDG 15 SDG 16
72
52
77
61
49
89
96
68
61
65
83
78
67
7574
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, technology
and infrastructure
Reduced inequality
Sustainable cities and communities
Responsible consumption and production
Climate action
Life on land
Peace, justice and strong institutions
INDIA ON THE MOVE: PROGRESS ON SDGS
SDG Index Score, 0-100
40
Between 2018 and 2023–24, Uttar Pradesh, Jammu
and Kashmir, Uttarakhand and several North Eastern
and Central States recorded the highest
J N Q S P W F N F O U T J O D P N Q P T J U F T D P S F T 5 I J T S F n F D U T O P U
only policy effectiveness but also a competitive and
enabling environment at the subnational level that
fosters innovation, strengthens accountability and
promotes results-oriented governance among States
and Union Territories.
) L J X U H , Q G L D · V , Q G H [ 6 F R U H 6 W D W H 8 7 3 H U I R U P D Q F H
Achiever (100) Front Runner(65-99) Performer (50-64) Aspirant (0-49)
2018
(Baseline)
Score:57
2023-24
Score:71
Note: Results over the years are not strictly comparable owing to revision in the indicator.Source: SDG India Index 2023-24
India remains committed to further deepening its engagement with the 2030 Agenda, both as a national priority and as part of its broader contribution to global development discourse. Through continuous innovation, strong collaboration and an emphasis on outcomes, India will continue to serve as a driver of SDG progress, both domestically and globally.
INDIA ON THE MOVE: PROGRESS ON SDGS
41
01
GOAL
No
Poverty
Eradicating poverty in all its forms remains one of
humanity’s most daunting challenges. SDG1
encompasses the aim of eradicating poverty – not only
in monetary terms but also in all forms and dimensions
by 2030. The Government has adopted a strategic
approach to address each dimension of poverty which
involves targeting the most vulnerable, increasing
basic resources and services and supporting
communities. It calls for the continuous monitoring of
progress in social protection and implementing robust
social protection systems. The importance of
mobilising resources from a variety of sources,
including through enhanced development cooperation
is also important for the success of SDG 1.
INDIA’s STEADY PROGRESS
IN REDUCING POVERTY
Poverty is a multifaceted and complex issue
encompassing multiple dimensions such as health,
education and living standards. Global efforts to
F S B E J D B U F Q P W F S U Z I B W F C F F O I B N Q F S F E C Z T J H O J m D B O U
setbacks caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and a
series of major shocks. Yet in the face of global crisis
India’s contribution to global poverty reduction has
remained steady and focused.
India’s National Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI)
3
is a valuable tool that captures these simultaneous
deprivations across the 12 SDG-aligned indicators.
The National MPI Report 2023 provides granular data
on multidimensional poverty across 36 States/UTs and
over 700 districts in India. The National MPI assesses
progress towards SDG target 1.2 which aims at
reducing “at least by half the proportion of men,
women and children of all ages living in poverty in all
its dimensions”.
The National MPI Report 2023 highlights that the
incidence of multidimensional poverty reduced from
24.85% to 14.96% between 2015-16 and 2019-21,
resulting in 135 million people escaping
multidimensional poverty during this period.
% F Q S J W B U J P O T J H O J m D B O U M Z S F E V D F E J O B M M U I F
indicators – nutrition, child and adolescent mortality,
maternal health, years of schooling, school
attendance, cooking fuel, sanitation, housing, drinking
water, electricity, assets and bank accounts.
The Government's multifaceted approach in critical
sectors including education, nutrition, sanitation,
J … n ÎÏ r z … ¨ … à 0 « Á ç
cooking fuel, electricity and housing have played a pivotal role in driving these positive outcomes.
For instance, the PM Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY) provides
clean cooking fuel to rural women while PM POSHAN
programme is the largest school feeding initiative
globally, targets school enrolment and nutrition.
Initiatives like the PM Sahaj Bijli Har Ghar Yojana
(SAUBHAGYA), Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM) and
Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) have improved sanitation
and water facilities along with ensuring widespread
availability of electricity. Another critical dimension of
the Government's efforts has been the improvement
in living standards. Through schemes like the PM
Awas Yojana (PMAY), millions have been empowered
U I S P V H I B D D F T T U P T F D V S F B O E E J H O J m F E I P V T J O H 5 I F
Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY), launched in 2014,
U S B O T G P S N F E V O J W F S T B M m O B O D J B M B D D F T T C Z P Q F O J O H
over 500 million bank accounts, with over half
belonging to women. This initiative has been pivotal in
Q S P N P U J O H m O B O D J B M J O D M V T J P O B O E F N Q P X F S J O H
individuals across diverse socioeconomic
backgrounds.
The reduction in the MPI value has been pro-poor in
absolute terms. The rural areas saw the fastest
reduction in the MPI value, with the incidence of
poverty falling from 32.59% to 19.28% compared to a
reduction in the incidence of poverty from 8.65% to
5.27% in urban areas during the 2015-16 and
2019-21 period.
Bihar, the state with the highest proportion of
multidimensional poverty in 2015-16, witnessed the
largest absolute reduction in the incidence of
multidimensional poverty from 51.89% to 33.76%
between 2015-16 and 2019-21, followed by Madhya
Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh (See Figure 5). However,
Uttar Pradesh recorded the largest reduction in
absolute number of MPI poor with 34.3 million
escaping multidimensional poverty during this period.
43
J … n ÎÏ r z … ¨ … à 0 « Á ç
Figure 5: Percentage of the total population who are multidimensionally
S R R U L Q H D F K 6 W D W H D Q G 8 7 V
% of population who are multidimensionally poorNFHS-5 (2019-21) NFHS-4 (2015-16)
50.0% .0% 10.0% 15.0% 20.0% 25.0% 30.0% 35.0% 40.0% 45.0% 50.0% 55.0%
Bihar
Jharkhand
Meghalaya
8 W W D U 3 U D G H V K
Madhya Pradesh
Assam
Chhattisgarh
Odisha
Nagaland
Rajasthan
Arunachal Pradesh
7 U L S X U D
West Bengal
Gujarat
8 W W D U D N K D Q G
Manipur
Maharashtra
Karnataka
Haryana
Andhra Pradesh
7 H O D Q J D Q D
Mizoram
Himachal Pradesh
Punjab
Sikkim
7 D P L O 1 D G X
Goa
Kerala
Dadra & Nagar Haveli & Daman & Diu
Jammu & Kashmir
Ladakh
Chandigarh
Delhi
Andaman & Nicobar Islands
Lakshadweep
Puducherry
33.76%
27.79%
22.93%
37.68%
20.63%
36.57%
19.35%
32.65%
16.37%
29.90%
15.68%
29.34%
15.43%
25.16%
15.31%
28.86%
13.76%
24.23%
13.11%
16.62%
11.89%
21.29%
11.66%
18.47%
9.67%
17.67%
8.10%
16.96%
7.81%
14.80%
7.58%
12.77%
7.07%
11.88%
6.06%
11.77%
5.88%
13.18%
5.30%
9.78%
4.93%
7.59%
4.75%
5.57%
2.60%
3.82%
2.20%
4.76%
0.84%
3.76%
0.70%
0.55%
9.21%
19.58%
4.80%
12.56%
3.53%
12.70%
3.52%
5.97%
3.43%
4.44%
2.30%
4.29%
1.11%
1.82%
0.85%
1.71%
32.54%
28.82%
42.10%
51.89%
States 8 Q L R Q 7 H U U L W R U L H V
Source: National Multidimensional Poverty Index: A Progress Review 2023
44
Further, building on these results of the National MPI,
the Government and UNDP released a discussion
paper highlighting that multidimensional poverty is
expected to have declined from 29.17% in 2013-14 to
These results highlight that India is much ahead in
achieving SDG target 1.2 of halving multidimensional
poverty by 2030. The substantial progress in all
indicators of the National MPI which intersect across
multiple SDGs demonstrates the concerted efforts
made to achieve overall progress. This is attributable
to a multi-faceted strategy focused on empowerment
and inclusive growth. The Government’s policy
framework has been guided by the idea of “Sabka
Saath, Sabka Vikas”, which mirrors the core principle
of “Leaving No One Behind” (LNOB).
Figure 6: Proportion of population who are multidimensionally poor in India
55.34%
29.17%
24.85%
14.96%
11.28%
2005-06 2015-16 2019-21 3 5 2 - ( & 7 ( ' 3 5 2 - ( & 7 ( '
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
% of population who are multidimensionally poorSource: Multidimensional Poverty in India since 2005-06 – Discussion Paper I NITI Aayog
11.28% in 2022-23, resulting in 248 million people escaping multidimensional poverty during this 9-year period in India (See Figure 6).
These results are mirrored in the World Bank's data showing a substantial decrease in India's extreme poverty rate (living on less than $2.15 per day (2017 PPP)) from 16.2% in 2011-12 to 2.3% in 2022-23, lifting 171 million people above extreme poverty line over the decade
4
. Extreme poverty saw substantial
reductions in both rural areas (from 18.4% to 2.8%) and urban areas (from 10.7% to 1.1%) during this period narrowing the rural-urban gap from 7.7 to 1.7 percentage points—a 16 percent annual decline. (See Figure 7).
J … n ÎÏ r z … ¨ … à 0 « Á ç
x È n Á X ( X x 0 z ³ X … z n ¨ … à 0 « Á çK ÐÎÎÓsÎÔ r ÐÎÏ×sÐÏ
45
J … n ÎÏ r z … ¨ … à 0 « Á ç
While the global goal of ending extreme poverty by
2030 may not be reached with roughly 7 per cent of
the world’s population expected to remain in extreme
Q P W F S U Z Q S J N B S J M Z J O G S B H J M F B O E D P O n J D U T U B U F T J O
Sub-Saharan Africa, South Asia could stand as an
exception. Driven by India's rapid economic recovery
and targeted policy interventions, Southern Asia is on
track to be virtually free of extreme poverty by the
2030 deadline.
EXPANDING SOCIAL
PROTECTION
A key pillar of India’s dramatic reduction of extreme
poverty has been the extension of coverage by India’s
social protection system. ILO’s World Social
Protection Report 2024-26 has noted India’s progress
in enhancing social protection coverage,
acknowledging the doubling of India’s social
Q S P U F D U J P O D P W F S B H F D B T I C F O F m U G S P N J O
2021 to 48.8% in 2024
5
. As per Ministry of Labour and
Employment, nearly 920 million people, or 65% of the
population, are now covered by at least one form of
) L J X U H : R U O G % D Q N · V ( [ W U H P H 3 R Y H U W \ + H D G F R X Q W 5 D W L R V
0 æ Á « 0 x 0 ¨ … à 0 « Á çK ÐÎÏÏsÏÐ r ÐÎÐÐsÐÑSource: World Bank, India Poverty and Equity Brief, April 2025
16.2
2.3
18.4
2.8
10.7
1.1
0
5
10
15
20
2011-12 2022-23
f o t nec r e
populaŸon)
All-India Rural Urban
Headcount ratio
(per cent of population)
social protection, whether in cash or in-kind, through U I F H P W F S O N F O U T D I F N F T 5 I J T S F n F D U T B T J H O J m D B O U expansion of social assistance programmes targeting children and families.
Under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural
Employment Guarantee Scheme (MNREGS), India
provides for at least one hundred days of unskilled
manual work as a guaranteed employment in a
m O B O D J B M Z F B S B T Q F S E F N B O E S F T V M U J O H J O D S F B U J P O P G
productive assets of prescribed quality and durability.
It aims to strengthen the livelihood resource base of
the poor and proactively ensure social inclusion. The
total person days between FY 2014-15 to FY 2024-25
has been 30.29 billion which is 82% more than the
decade before 2014.
6
Additionally, participation of
women has increased steadily from 48 % in 2013-14
to 58.01 % in 2024-25
7
. More than half of the
permissible works taken up are related to agriculture
and agriculture allied works which contribute to food
security and around 40 % are related to natural
resource management and rural infrastructure works.
Year
Extreme poverty line ($2.15, 2017 PPP per day)
46
Self-help Groups (SHGs) are the driving force
behind rural development and women's
empowerment. Despite continuous efforts few
6 + * V F D Q V X V W D L Q W K H L U R S H U D W L R Q V S U R À W D E O \ I R U D
longer time. To address this as part of the Village
Sarthi initiative in Moradabad, Uttar Pradesh an
e-marketplace has been developed where
SHG-run e-stores are established at the village
level. These stores are interconnected through a
mobile app and a web-based platform facilitating
convenient access for both seller and buyer
“Didis” (SHG sisters). SHG Didi (Udyam Sakhi)
initiates the ordering process by gathering
INCREASING ACCESS TO
BASIC SERVICES
India has established ambitious and holistic goals for
poverty alleviation, moving beyond the monetary
poverty threshold. Recognising the multidimensional
nature of poverty, the Government is implementing
various welfare schemes focused on nutrition, health,
education, housing, drinking water, sanitation, skill
development and infrastructure like roads and utilities.
Sustained economic growth has played a crucial role
in reducing poverty over the years.
The universalisation of public healthcare has been
T J H O J m D B O U M Z F O I B O D F E C Z U I F " Z V T I N B O # I B S B U
Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY).
This scheme has effectively reduced Out-of-Pocket
Expenditure (OOPE) by increasing social security
measures and boosting primary health spending. In
2024, the Government expanded AB-PMJAY to
Q S P W J E F G S F F U S F B U N F O U C F O F m U T P G V Q U P 0.5 million
Q F S Z F B S U P ø B Q Q S P Y J N B U F M Z N J M M J P O ø T F O J P S D J U J [ F O T
aged 70 years and above, belonging to 45 million
families, irrespective of their socio-economic status.
As of March 2025, more than 369 million Ayushman
cards have been created under the scheme
10
and
n F Y J C J M J U J F T I B W F C F F O H S B O U F E U P 4 U B U F T 6 5 T U P V T F
U I F J S P X O E B U B C B T F T U P F Y Q B O E U I F C F O F m D J B S Z C B T F
To ensure old age protection, Pradhan Mantri Shram
Yogi Maan-dhan (PM-SYM), a pension scheme for
unorganised workers, was launched in February
2019. Total gross enrolment under Atal Pension
Yojana has crossed 70 million mark in October 2024.
8
5 I J T J T B n B H T I J Q T P D J B M T F D V S J U Z T D I F N F P G U I F
Government that aims to create a universal social
T F D V S J U Z T Z T U F N G P S B M M D J U J [ F O T F T Q F D J B M M Z U I F Q P P S U I F
underprivileged and the workers in the unorganised
sector.
Self-help Groups (SHGs) are the driving force behind rural development and women's empowerment. Despite F R Q W L Q X R X V H I I R U W V I H Z 6 + * V F D Q V X V W D L Q W K H L U R S H U D W L R Q V S U R À W D E O \ I R U D O R Q J H U W L P H 7 R D G G U H V V W K L V D V S D U W of the Village Sarthi initiative in Moradabad, Uttar Pradesh an e-marketplace has been developed where SHG-run e-stores are established at the village level. These stores are interconnected through a mobile app and a web-based platform facilitating convenient access for both seller and buyer “Didis” (SHG sisters). SHG Didi (Udyam Sakhi) initiates the ordering process by gathering demand from local SHG women and submitting it to the district through a web-based platform.
$ F H Q W U D O Z D U H K R X V H D W W K H G L V W U L F W O H Y H O K D V E H H Q V H W X S W R V W R U H L Q Y H Q W R U \ V X I À F L H Q W I R U D I R X U P R Q W K V X S S O \
for the village e-stores. This inventory consists of 60% branded FMCG products and 40% locally sourced SHG
products. Upon placement of an order the products are promptly delivered to the Mahila e-store within 24
hours. These products are delivered to local SHG women at a discounted rate leading to substantial savings
for the members of the SHG.
VILLAGE SARTHI: AN INITIATIVE IN MORADABAD,
È Á Á « ¨ « ( 0 ³ R Á … 0 x ¨ … á 0 « ³ 0 n Is R 0 n ¨ J « … È ¨ ³
The Government is also implementing the Deendayal
Antyodaya Yojana – National Rural Livelihoods
Mission (DAY – NRLM) across the country with the
objective of organising women from rural poor
households into Self Help Groups (SHGs) nurturing
and supporting them to increase their incomes and
escape abject poverty. As of February 2025, more
than 100 million rural women households have been
connected through the Mission to 9 million Self Help
Groups.
9
J … n ÎÏ r z … ¨ … à 0 « Á ç
47
Global SDG target 1.4 aims to ensure that every
person has access to basic services such as housing.
The Government is committed to building and
providing pucca (permanent) houses for the poor in
rural areas. 40 million houses have been constructed
in urban and rural areas under the Pradhan Mantri
Awas Yojana, a National Housing Scheme for
providing affordable housing. Under Pradhan Mantri
Awas Yojana - Gramin (PMAY-G), the Government
has set an ambitious target to build 33.2 million more
houses by March 2029, with 26.7 million houses
D P N Q M F U F E T J H O J m D B O U M Z J N Q S P W J O H U I F M J W J O H
conditions of millions of rural families. The scheme
has also placed a special focus on women
empowerment, with 74% of sanctioned houses
owned by women solely or jointly.
11
Skilled
F N Q M P Z N F O U I B T B M T P C F F O B Q S J P S J U Z X J U I ø B M N P T U
million rural masons trained in disaster-resilient
construction, boosting their employability.
In order to reduce poverty of the Schedule Caste (SC)
communities, the Government merged three erstwhile
Centrally Sponsored Schemes in 2021-2022, to
create Pradhan Mantri Anusuchit Jaati Abhyuday
Yojana (PM-AJAY) (Prime Minister’s Scheduled
Castes Upliftment Scheme). The focus is on reducing
poverty of the Schedule Caste communities by
generation of additional employment opportunities
through skill development, income generating
schemes and other initiatives and to improve
socio-economic developmental indicators by
ensuring adequate infrastructure and requisite
T F S W J D F T J O U I F W J M M B H F T X J U I B T J H O J m D B O U 4 $
population. During 2024-25, 4,991 villages were
declared as Adarsh Gram (model villages). The
selected villages are saturated with 50
Socio-Economic developmental indicators under 10
domains namely Drinking Water and Sanitation,
Education, Health and Nutrition, Social Security, Rural
Roads and Housing, Electricity and Clean Fuel,
Agricultural Practices, Financial Inclusion,
Digitisation, Livelihood and Skill Development, which
are the minimum requirements for any person residing
in a village.
In 2024, the Government approved Pradhan Mantri
Janjatiya Unnat Gram Abhiyan (Prime Minister’s Tribal
Inclusive Development Village Campaign) for
improving the socio-economic condition of tribal
communities by adopting saturation coverage for
tribal families in tribal-majority villages and
aspirational districts. The initiative aims to cover
B S P V O E W J M M B H F T C F O F m U U J O H N P S F U I B O
million tribal people across 549 districts and 2,740
blocks spread across all tribal majority villages across
30 States / UTs.
A paradigm shift in the public service delivery and the
implementation of schemes has been accomplished
by the Government through the promotion of digital
B O E m O B O D J B M J O D M V T J P O 5 I J T I B T C F F O F O B C M F E C Z
+ " . U S J O J U Z + B O % I B O m O B O D J B M J O D M V T J P O " B E I B S
V O J W F S T B M J E F O U J m D B U J P O B O E . P C J M F J O U F S O F U
penetration). JAM Trinity has enabled an extension of
D B T I C F O F m U T U P B O J O D S F B T J O H M Z X J E F H S P V Q P G
D J U J [ F O T S F N P W F E J O U F S N F E J B S J F T B O E M F E U P E J S F D U
U S B O T G F S P G C F O F m U T J O U P B O J O U F O E F E C F O F m D J B S Z T
bank account. Under the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan
Yojana (PMJDY) the unbanked have been brought
J O U P U I F G P S N B M m O B O D J B M T Z T U F N C Z F Y Q B O E J O H B D D F T T
to savings accounts, credit, remittance, insurance
B O E Q F O T J P O T * U I B T I F M Q F E P Q F O ø P W F S N J M M J P O
B D D P V O U T X J U I E F Q P T J U T S J T J O H U P ø` C J M M J P O ø C Z
January 2025.
12
MAINSTREAMING GENDER
IN PUBLIC SPENDING
Gender budgeting has also emerged as an important
D I B O O F M P G ( P W F S O N F O U T U B S H F U J O H P G m T D B M Q P M J D Z U P
reduce poverty. Gender budgeting monitors
expenditure and public service delivery from a
gender perspective as a means of mainstreaming
women's concerns in all activities and improving their
access to public resources. Since the gender budget
statement was introduced in 2005-06, more and more
Ministries/Departments are reviewing the
programmes and schemes to address the quantum of
resources that have the budgetary potential to impact
and address the development needs of women. The
6 O J P O # V E H F U S F n F D U T B T J H O J m D B O U S J T F J O
gender-focused allocations. The Gender Budget in FY
2025-26 constitutes 8.86% of the total budget,
increasing from 4.72% in FY 2020-21 (See Figure 8).
In 2025, a record allocation of `4.49 trillion has been
E F T J H O B U F E G P S X P N F O h T X F M G B S F S F n F D U J O H B
increase from FY 2023-24.
13
J … n ÎÏ r z … ¨ … à 0 « Á ç
48
Figure 8: Proportion of budget earmarked under gender budget
Be it DBT, or plans to provide facilities like electricity, water, toilets to poor people, all these have
C S P V H I U B S F W P M V U J P O B U U I F H S B T T S P P U T M F W F M 5 I F T F T D I F N F T I B W F m M M F E U I F Q P P S F T U P G U I F Q P P S J O
the country with a sense of respect and security.
+ R Q · E O H 3 U L P H 0 L Q L V W H U R I , Q G L D
4.46
4.58
5.68
4.99 4.91
4.72
4.40 4.33
5.00
6.50
8.8
0
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
100
500
1000
1500
2000
2500
3000
3500
4000
4500
5000
2015-16 2016-17 2017-18 2018-19 2019-20 2020-21 2021-22 2022-23 2023-24 2024-25 2025-26
Proportion of total budget (%)
Gender Budget Allocation (` billion)
Gender budget allocation (Rs. billions)
Proportion of total budget (%, rhs) 4 P V S D F & Y Q F O E J U V S F 1 S P m M F 4 U B U F N F O U B O E 4 U B U F N F O U % F Q B S U N F O U P G & D P O P N J D " G G B J S T
Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Women and Child Development, and Union Budget 2025-26
“
”
J … n ÎÏ r z … ¨ … à 0 « Á ç
49
WAY FORWARD
India is expected to achieve the SDG Target 1.2 (of
reducing multidimensional poverty by at least half)
much ahead of the stipulated timeline of 2030. It
demonstrates the Government’s strategic focus on
ensuring sustainable and equitable development and
eradicating poverty by 2030, thereby adhering to its
commitment towards the SDGs. The Government is
focused on addressing disparities in the poverty
levels among States and managing the challenges
B S J T J O H G S P N S B Q J E V S C B O J T B U J P O O P U B C M Z S F n F D U F E J O
the mismatch between demand and supply for
housing, infrastructure, job opportunities and
essential services.
Since climate change tends to impact vulnerable
communities more, supporting resilient livelihoods
U I S P V H I D M J N B U F T N B S U B H S J D V M U V S F E S P V H I U Q S P P m O H
B O E H S F F O K P C T ø J T F Y Q F D U F E U P C F D P N F N P S F
important.
India will further enhance its role as a knowledge
partner on poverty reduction, especially with the
countries in the Global South through platforms like
the Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty,
* O E J B # S B [ J M 4 P V U I " G S J D B * # 4 " % J B M P H V F ' P S V N F U D
In this context, sharing best practices in digital
governance, rural development and DBT
mechanisms will contribute to global progress.
Consistent implementation across a diverse set of
programmes and initiatives that have strong
J O U F S M J O L B H F T X J M M D P O U J O V F U P M F B E U P T J H O J m D B O U
reduction in deprivations across multiple indicators.
India will continue to prioritise the reduction of
poverty, enhancement of incomes, improvement of
living standards and the overall ease of living for all
D P N N V O J U J F T 5 I J T S F n F D U T U I F ( P W F S O N F O U h T
V O X B W F S J O H D P N N J U N F O U U P J N Q S P W J O H D J U J [ F O T M J W F T
and creating a brighter future for all.
J … n ÎÏ r z … ¨ … à 0 « Á ç
50
02
GOAL
Zero
Hunger
SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) strives to eradicate hunger,
achieve food security, enhance nutrition and foster
sustainable agriculture. It not only addresses hunger
itself but also tackles its root causes, including
J O F R V B M J U Z D M J N B U F D I B O H F B O E J O F G m D J F O U B H S J D V M U V S B M
practices. The overarching goal of SDG 2 is to
eliminate all forms of hunger and malnutrition by 2030,
ensuring that everyone, particularly those in
W V M O F S B C M F T J U V B U J P O T I B W F B D D F T T U P T V G m D J F O U
nutritious food.
Moreover, it aims to double agricultural productivity by
2030, promote decent incomes, facilitate
people-centred rural development, maintain genetic
diversity of seeds, plants and farmed animals,
strengthen the capacity for climate change adaptive
agriculture and safeguard the environment. Key
measures such as promoting sustainable agriculture,
supporting small-scale farmers and ensuring
equitable access to land, technology and markets are
crucial for ending hunger and poverty. Achieving this
goal also necessitates international cooperation to
invest in infrastructure and technology for improving
agricultural productivity.
INCREASING RESILIENCE OF
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The Government of India has undertaken various
initiatives to guarantee food for all, launching one of
the world’s largest food security programmes through
the National Food Security Act, 2013. While many
countries faced challenges to the availability and
affordability of food both during the COVID-19
lockdowns (2020-21) and sharp rise in prices of food,
fuels and fertilizers in 2022, India’s human centric
food-based safety net – the Targeted Public
Distribution System (TPDS) – was a source of
resilience and stability for the country. Despite facing
numerous obstacles during the COVID-19 lockdowns,
the country launched the Pradhan Mantri Garib
Kalyan Anna Yojana (PMGKAY), allocating free food
H S B J O T J O B E E J U J P O U P S F H V M B S 5 1 % 4 X J U I U I F T Q F D J m D
purpose of ameliorating the hardships faced by the
poor and needy due to economic disruptions caused
by the COVID-19 outbreak. In 2024, the Government
decided to extend further the distribution of free of
D P T U G P P E H S B J O T G P S m W F B E E J U J P O B M Z F B S T J F V O U J M
and as of December 2024, 806.7 million people are
receiving food grains free of cost.
14
India has also implemented the One Nation One
Ration Card (ONORC) plan for nation-wide portability
of ration cards under the National Food Security Act,
/ ' 4 " 6 O E F S U I J T Q M B O B O Z C F O F m D J B S Z D B O
take delivery of food grains from any Fair Price Shop
at uniform NFSA entitlement and price across the
country. At the end of 2024, more than 25 million
portability transactions were being recorded every
month under PMGKAY foodgrain distribution.
15
ENHANCING
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INCOME
Food grain production has surged from 204.6 million
tonnes (2004-05) to an estimated 332.3 million tonnes
(2023-24), with enhanced productivity and Minimum
Support Price (MSP) revisions ensuring better farmer
incomes (See Figure 9). India's foodgrain production
I B T T F F O B T U F B E Z S J T F P W F S U I F Z F B S T S F n F D U J O H
improvements in agricultural productivity and policy
support. In 2004-05, total foodgrain production stood
at 204.6 million tonnes (4th advance estimates). This
increased to 252 million tonnes in 2014-15 and further
surged to an estimated 332.3 million tonnes in
2023-24.
16
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53
Additionally, the dairy sector has emerged as a
crucial pillar of the rural economy, playing a
key role in ensuring nutritional security,
improving livelihoods and enabling inclusive
economic growth. India has held the top
position in global milk production since 1998
and now accounts for a quarter of the world’s
total milk output. Over the past decade, milk
production in the country has surged by
63.56%, rising from 146.3 million tonnes in
2014-15 to 239.2 million tonnes in 2023-24,
S F n F D U J O H B O B W F S B H F B O O V B M H S P X U I S B U F P G
5.7%. In comparison, global milk production is
increasing at a rate of 2% per year. Additionally,
the per capita availability of milk in India has
grown by 48% in the last ten years, reaching
over 471 grams per person per day in 2023-24,
compared to the global average of 322 grams
per person per day (See Figure 10).
17
These
Figure 9: Production of Major Crops
204.6
252
332.3
0
50
100
150
200
250
300
350
2004-05 2014-15 2023-24
Million Tonnes
achievements have been made possible through the rollout of initiatives like the National Programme for Dairy Development (NPDD), National Livestock Mission (NLM), Rashtriya Gokul Mission, Animal Husbandry Infrastructure Development Fund (AHIDF) and Supporting Dairy Cooperatives and Farmer Producer Organisations involved in dairy activities (SDCFPO), among others. These initiatives support and enhance the efforts of the State Governments. Women are pivotal in India’s dairy industry, making up nearly 69% of the workforce in the livestock and animal I V T C B O E S Z 5 I F J S T J H O J m D B O U J O W P M W F N F O U J O U I F governance of dairy cooperatives, including leadership positions on management committees and milk unions, has contributed to the inclusive growth of dairy development throughout the country.
Source: Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Government of India
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54
The annual growth rate of real GVA in the agriculture,
G P S F T U S Z B O E m T I J O H T F D U P S I B T T I P X O n V D U V B U J P O T
over the years. However, the sector had gained
momentum over the last decade, with growth in real
Figure 10: Milk production and per capita availability of milk in India
0
50
100
150
200
250
300
350
400
450
500
2015-16 2016-17 2017-18 2018-19 2019-20 2020-21 2021-22 2022-23 2023-24
Years
Milk Production/ Per Capita Availability
Production (Million Tonnes) Per Capita Availability (gms/day)
Figure 11: Annualized Growth Rate of Real GVA in Agriculture in last two decades
3.4%
4.4%
2004-05 to 2014-15 2014-15 to 2024-25
0.05
0.04
0.03
0.02
0.01
0.00
GVA rising to an estimated 4.4% from 2014-15 to
4 F F ' J H V S F 5 I J T S F n F D U T J N Q S P W F E
F G m D J F O D Z N F D I B O J T B U J P O B O E E J W F S T J m D B U J P O J O
agricultural activities.
Source: Basic Animal Husbandry Statistics, MoFAHD, DAHD, GoI
Annualized growth rate (%) at constant 2011-12
Source: Calculations based on MoSPI National Accounts Division statistics.
J … n ÎÐ r ñ 0 « … R È z J 0 «
55
The Government is pursuing initiatives such as Per
Drop More Crop (PDMC) and various actions under
the National Mission on Sustainable Agriculture
(NMSA). These measures include using alternative
and organic fertilisers to enhance productivity and
sustainability. Additionally, the Government provides
income support to farmers through assured
remunerative prices for their produce alongside
programmes such as the Pradhan Mantri Kisan
Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN).
1 . , * 4 " / J T Q S P W J E J O H B O O V B M m O B O D J B M B T T J T U B O D F U P
farmers. The aim is to increase production, reduce the
cost of production, ensure fair prices for produce,
compensate for crop losses, diversify agriculture and
reduce costs. Today, PM KISAN is one of the largest
E J S F D U C F O F m U U S B O T G F S T D I F N F T J O U I F X P S M E % V S J O H
the 19th instalment in February 2025, over 98 million
farmers including 24.1 million female farmers
S F D F J W F E E J S F D U m O B O D J B M B T T J T U B O D F F Y D F F E J O H `220
billion through DBT
18
0 W F S P G U I F C F O F m D J B S J F T
are small and marginal farmers and every fourth
C F O F m D J B S Z J T B X P N B O ' B S N F S D F O U S J D E J H J U B M
J O G S B T U S V D U V S F I B T F O T V S F E U I F 1 . , * 4 " / C F O F m U T
reach all the farmers across the country without
involvement of any intermediaries. Farmers can
register grievances on a dedicated portal and take
the help of a 24x7 call facility or use Kisan e-mitra, a
voice-based AI Chatbot available in 12 languages.
IFPRI conducted an independent study of PM-KISAN,
which found that the funds received under this
scheme have helped farmers overcome debt barriers
and increased their risk-taking capacity. Additionally,
Kisan Credit Card (KCC) provides farmers timely and
affordable credit for purchasing agricultural inputs
such as seeds, fertilisers and pesticides, as well as for
meeting cash requirements related to crop production
and allied activities.
Digital initiatives like the Digital Agriculture Mission
and the e-National Agriculture Market (e-NAM) have
been launched to encourage the adoption of
innovative agricultural technologies and improve
price discovery mechanisms. Digital Agriculture
Mission launched in 2024 facilitates a robust digital
agriculture ecosystem in the country for driving
innovative farmer-centric digital solutions and making
available timely and reliable crop-related information
to all the farmers in the country. The Mission creates
Digital Public Infrastructure for Agriculture such as
Agristack, Krishi Decision Support System,
$ P N Q S F I F O T J W F 4 P J M ' F S U J M J U Z B O E 1 S P m M F . B Q B O E
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India has made notable strides in ensuring food
security, maintaining the availability of food and
promoting sustainable agriculture. The emphasis on
sustainable agriculture is evident through initiatives
like the National Mission on Sustainable Agriculture
(NMSA), a part of the National Action Plan on Climate
Change (NAPCC). The NMSA aims to evolve and
implement strategies to make Indian agriculture more
S F T J M J F O U U P U I F D I B O H J O H D M J N B U F ø 6 O E F S / . 4 " U I F
Per Drop More Crop aims to improve on-farm water
V T F F G m D J F O D Z F O I B O D F U I F B E P Q U J P O P G Q S F D J T J P O
irrigation and other water saving technologies for
X I J D I T V C T J E Z J T C F J O H Q S P W J E F E U P U I F C F O F m D J B S Z U P
increase the area under micro irrigation.
In addition, the Government is promoting organic
farming in the country since 2015-16 through the
schemes of Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY)
and Mission Organic Value Chain Development for
North Eastern Region (MOVCDNER). This has led to
an increase in the organic farming area in the country
(See Figure 12). End-to-end support to farmers in all
States/UTs engaged in organic farming is provided
G S P N Q S P E V D U J P O U P Q S P D F T T J O H D F S U J m D B U J P O B O E
marketing and post-harvest management. Farmers
receive training and capacity building as well as
incentives for producing and using organic
fertilisers/manure. The scheme Bharatiya Prakritik
Krishi Paddhati Programme (BPKP) aims to promote
traditional indigenous practices and to create
awareness among farmers. Mission for Integrated
Development of Horticulture (MIDH), Agroforestry and
National Bamboo Mission also aim to increase climate
resilience. The Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana
(PMFBY) provides a fully insured amount on crop
losses due to natural calamities. Today, it is the world’s
largest crop insurance scheme in terms of farmer
enrolment and third largest scheme in terms of
insurance premium collected. Farmer enrolment
increased by 28 % in 2023-2024, compared to
C F O F m U U J O H O F B S M Z N J M M J P O G B S N F S T * U T
success has meant that Governments of Jordan and
Ecuador have requested India’s technical assistance
in developing similar crop insurance schemes in their
own countries.
other IT initiatives, in collaboration with State
Governments, aiming to cover farmers and their lands
within three years (2024-2027).
J … n ÎÐ r ñ 0 « … R È z J 0 «
56
Figure 12: Organic Farming Area
0.58
1.36
2.2
5.8
8.41
11.91
10.36
8.03
8.74
5.04
7.23
11.84
14.9
14.43
17.86
19.38
22.99
26.6
47.26
53.91
44.75
0
1
2
3
4
5
6
2003-04
2004-05
2005-06
2006-07
2007-08
2008-09
2009-10
2010-11
2011-12
2012-13
2013-14
2014-15
2015-16
2016-17
2017-18
2018-19
2019-20
2020-21
2021-22
2022-23
2023-24
Million hectares
Source: ICAR IIFSR Annual Report 2023-24
In 2024, the Government launched the National
Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF). NMNF has been
M B V O D I F E B T B T I J G U U P T D J F O U J m D B M M Z S F W J W F B O E
strengthen agriculture practices towards
sustainability, climate resilience and healthy food for
farmer families and consumers.
The Government has also conducted a
comprehensive review of agricultural research
infrastructure to enhance productivity. As part of this
initiative, 109 new high-yielding and climate-resilient
W B S J F U J F T I B W F C F F O J O U S P E V D F E B D S P T T m F M E B O E
horticultural crops for farmers. The Government plans
to transition 10 million farmers to natural farming and
Q S P W J E F T V Q Q P S U G P S D F S U J m D B U J P O B O E C S B O E J O H
Additionally, 10,000 bio-input resource centres are
being set up to facilitate this transition. To achieve
T F M G T V G m D J F O D Z J O Q V M T F T B O E P J M T F F E T U I F
Government is focusing on improving production,
storage and marketing, with particular emphasis on
oilseeds such as mustard, groundnut, sesame,
T P Z C F B O B O E T V O n P X F S
Year
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57
Rajasthan’s Food and Nutrition Security Analysis dashboard, launched in 2024, serves as one stop
platform to visualise and assess regional patterns of food insecurity and malnutrition in Rajasthan and
identify the most food insecure geographies and population groups with regards to food security. The
E B T I C P B S E F O B C M F T F W J E F O D F C B T F E N P O J U P S J O H B O E J E F O U J m D B U J P O P G W V M O F S B C M F I P U T Q P U T G P S T U S B U F H J D
planning and targeted action for achieving ‘Zero Hunger’ in the state of Rajasthan.
0 z R z ! X z J J « X ! È n Á È « n
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The government has prioritised agricultural
infrastructure and trade as a key strategy to increase
farmers' livelihoods. These efforts are intended not
only to increase productivity but also to ensure
long-term economic stability, improved living
standards for farmers across the country and a
sustainable and resilient agricultural ecosystem.
To improve storage facilities, the Government is
implementing the Agricultural Marketing Infrastructure
(AMI) scheme, a component of the Integrated
Scheme for Agricultural Marketing (ISAM). This
scheme provides assistance for the construction or
renovation of godowns and warehouses in rural areas
to boost agricultural storage capacity. In 2020, the
Agriculture Infrastructure Fund (AIF) scheme was
launched to enhance post-harvest management
infrastructure, minimise losses, increase farmers'
income and bring innovation to agriculture. The
Government is also implementing the National
Agriculture Market (e-NAM), a virtual platform
integrating physical wholesale mandis/ markets of
different States/ UTs to facilitate online trading of
agricultural commodities through transparent price
discovery method to enable farmers to realise better
remunerative prices for their produce.
Additionally, under the Mission Organic Value Chain
Development for North Eastern Region, the
( P W F S O N F O U J T E F W F M P Q J O H D P N N P E J U Z T Q F D J m D
D P O D F O U S B U F E D F S U J m F E P S H B O J D Q S P E V D U J P O D M V T U F S T
This is being developed in value chain mode to link
growers with consumers and to support the
development of the entire value chain starting from
J O Q V U T T F F E T D F S U J m D B U J P O U P U I F D S F B U J P O P G G B D J M J U J F T
for collection, aggregation, processing, marketing
B O E C S B O E C V J M E J O H J O J U J B U J W F 5 I F N J T T J P O X J M M C F O F m U
Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya,
Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim, and Tripura.
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58
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Improving nutrition is also an important focus of
governments’ efforts to make progress towards Zero
Hunger. With India no longer being a net food
importing country, the rise in agricultural productivity
and stronger food value chains are also helping
improve diets and reduce hunger across the country.
In addition to India’s strong food-based safety nets,
the country’s nutrition programmes like Pradhan
Mantri Poshan Shakti Nirman (PM POSHAN),
Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) and
Poshan Abhiyaan have been drivers in reducing the
proportion of children under 5 years who are
underweight, stunted and wasted between Round 4
(2015-16) and Round 5 (2019-21) of the National
Family Health Survey (See Figure 13).
Launched in 2018, POSHAN Abhiyaan (National
/ V U S J U J P O . J T T J P O J T * O E J B h T n B H T I J Q Q S P H S B N N F U P
improve nutritional outcomes for children, pregnant
women and lactating mothers. The acronym POSHAN
(PM’s Overarching Scheme for Holistic Nourishment)
spells out the government’s strategy to tackle
malnutrition. The programme aims to ensure
service-delivery and interventions by using
technology, behavioural change through
D P O W F S H F O D F B O E T F U U J O H T Q F D J m D U B S H F U T U P C F
achieved across different monitoring parameters. By
integrating technology, cross-sectoral collaboration,
and community-driven efforts, the programme has
N B E F T J H O J m D B O U T U S J E F T J O J N Q S P W J O H N B U F S O B M B O E
child nutrition.
For maximising the nutritional outcomes, the
Government has launched ‘Saksham Anganwadi and
Poshan 2.0’ (Mission Poshan 2.0), which subsumes
POSHAN Abhiyaan, Supplementary Nutrition
Programme under Anganwadi Services and Scheme
for Adolescent Girls. The objectives of Mission Poshan
2.0 are to contribute to human capital development,
address malnutrition, promote nutrition awareness,
and good eating habits to address nutrition related
E F m D J F O D J F T . J T T J P O 1 P T I B O J T Q S P W J E J O H W B S J P V T
C F O F m U T J O D M V E J O H T V Q Q M F N F O U B S Z O V U S J U J P O J O U I F G P S N
of hot cooked meals and take-home ration to
B Q Q S P Y J N B U F M Z N J M M J P O F O E C F O F m D J B S J F T N J M M J P O
children aged six and under, 10.6 million women,
including pregnant women and lactating mothers and
2.3 million adolescent girls.) Additionally, growth
monitoring of more than 85 million children under 6
years of age is being done regularly.
19
Social and behavioural changes have been promoted
by community-based events, Poshan Maah and
1 P T I B O 1 B L I X B E B J O Q B S U O F S T I J Q X J U I U I F W B S J P V T ø
. J O J T U S J F T % F Q B S U N F O U T B O E P U I F S T U B L F I P M E F S T ø 0 W F S
300 million community sensitisation activities were
conducted in 2024.
A Poshan Tracker has been introduced to track
real-time data collected by Anganwadi workers on
stunting, wasting and under- weight prevalence
among children. It tracks nutrition service delivery at
Anganwadi Centres and uses Aadhaar to link
C F O F m D J B S J F T G P S B D D V S B U F U S B D L J O H 5 I J T E B U B B J E T J O
effective planning, monitoring and timely
interventions, enabling the Mission Poshan 2.0 to
assess programme impact and provide feedback and
ensure targeted actions.Source: National Family Health Survey, Rounds 3, 4 and 5
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
Stunting Wasting Underweight
Percentage
Figure 13: Select indicators of nutritional progress for children under 5 years old
Indicator
NFHS-3 (2005-06) NFHS-4 (2015-16) NFHS-5 (2019-21)
59
In 2021, the World Bank conducted a survey in 11
priority states (Andhra Pradesh, Bihar,
Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Jharkhand, Karnataka,
Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Tamil
Nadu and Uttar Pradesh) with the highest rates of
anaemia and stunting. The aim of this survey was
W R D V V H V V W K H S U R J U D P · V G H O L Y H U \ R I Q X W U L W L R Q
services, whether the nutritional knowledge of
E H Q H À F L D U L H V K D G L P S U R Y H G D Q G L I W K H \ K D G
adopted more appropriate nutrition and feeding
S U D F W L F H V 7 K H À Q G L Q J V G H P R Q V W U D W H G W K D W W K H
services delivered through the Poshan Abhiyaan –
the receipt of relevant messages, home visits by
the Anganwadi worker, and attendance at
community-based events – were associated with
improved nutrition behaviours. The survey also
found that the programme's nutrition messages
reached more than 80% of women and that 81% of
women practiced exclusive breastfeeding for the
À U V W V L [ P R Q W K V
Project Sampoorna in Bongaigaon, Assam
L Q W U R G X F H G W K H F R Q F H S W R I ¶ % X G G \ 0 R W K H U V ·
wherein two mothers formed a pair, one with a
healthy child and the other with a malnourished
child. They exchanged best practices and worked
on diet charts to monitor the daily food intake of
their children.
Mission Sampurna Poshan in Asifabad, Telangana
has enabled local production and consumption of
millets to address challenges of nutritional
G H À F L H Q F \ 8 Q G H U W K H S U R J U D P P H ) R R G ) H V W L Y D O V
Millet recipe trainings etc. were conducted. To
promote millets, subsidised seeds were distributed
to 2500 households on a pilot basis and today, 80%
R I E H Q H À F L D U L H V D U H Q R Z F R Q V X P L Q J P L O O H W V
The Mukhymantri Matrushakti Yojana in Gujarat
R I I H U V Q X W U L W L R Q N L W V W R À U V W W L P H S U H J Q D Q W Z R P H Q
and mothers of children up to two years old,
ensuring they receive essential commodities like
groundnut oil, dal and chana, which promote
healthy pregnancy and early childhood nutrition.
á ç I … « á « (
India’s comprehensive efforts to end hunger, achieve
food security, improve nutrition and promote
sustainable agriculture have laid a strong foundation
for achieving SDG 2. Moving forward, the focus
remains on consolidating gains and accelerating
progress through an integrated, inclusive and
technology-driven approach.
Integration of digital platforms like the Digital
Agriculture Mission, e-NAM and PM-KISAN grievance
redressal systems with real-time advisories, climate
alerts and market intelligence are areas which need
D P O U J O V P V T G P D V T & Y Q B O E J O H m O B O D J B M J O D M V T J P O
through Kisan Credit Cards (KCC), insurance
coverage under PMFBY and women-centric extension
services could also further improve farmer well-being
and productivity.
Nutrition goes beyond eating; it requires proper
digestion, absorption and metabolism which are
J O n V F O D F E C Z G B D U P S T M J L F T B O J U B U J P O F E V D B U J P O B O E
access to safe drinking water. Tackling malnutrition
requires a continued multi-sectoral approach
involving dimensions of food, health, water, sanitation
and education.
Recognising its role in addressing malnutrition and
ensuring nutritional security, the Government has
undertaken and will continue to strengthen initiatives
to promote dietary diversity. For instance, Poshan
" C I J Z B B O Q S P N P U F T E J F U B S Z E J W F S T J m D B U J P O U I S P V H I
behaviour change communication, community-based
events like “Poshan Maah” and “Poshan Pakhwada”
and nutrition education. These campaigns emphasise
the consumption of a variety of locally available foods,
including fruits, vegetables, pulses, etc. Additionally,
the mission works closely with Anganwadi centres to
encourage kitchen gardens and use them as
educational tools for promoting diverse food
consumption at the household level. PM POSHAN has
also been reoriented to include a more diverse food
basket by incorporating millets, green leafy
vegetables and seasonal fruits.
X x ¨ ! Á … I
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60
03
GOAL
Good
health
and
well-being
Good health is essential to sustainable development
B O E U I F " H F O E B S F n F D U T U I F D P N Q M F Y J U Z B O E
J O U F S D P O O F D U F E O F T T P G U I F U X P * U U B L F T J O U P B D D P V O U
X J E F O J O H F D P O P N J D B O E T P D J B M J O F R V B M J U J F T S B Q J E
V S C B O J T B U J P O U I S F B U T U P U I F D M J N B U F B O E U I F
F O W J S P O N F O U U I F D P O U J O V J O H C V S E F O P G ) * 7 5 # B O E
P U I F S J O G F D U J P V T E J T F B T F T B O E U I F F N F S H J O H
D I B M M F O H F T T V D I B T O P O D P N N V O J D B C M F E J T F B T F T * U
D B M M T G P S B S F O F X F E G P D V T P O N F O U B M I F B M U I J T T V F T B T
X F M M 6 O J W F S T B M I F B M U I D P W F S B H F J O D M V E J O H m O B O D J B M
S J T L Q S P U F D U J P O B D D F T T U P R V B M J U Z F T T F O U J B M I F B M U I D B S F
T F S W J D F T B O E B D D F T T U P T B G F F G G F D U J W F R V B M J U Z B O E
B G G P S E B C M F N F E J D J O F T B S F J O U F H S B M U P U I J T H P B M
$ I B O H J O H E F N P H S B Q I J D T Q B S U J D V M B S M Z Q P Q V M B U J P O
B H J O H B O E E F D M J O J O H C J S U I S B U F T T J H O J m D B O U M Z J N Q B D U
I F B M U I D B S F T Z T U F N T C Z J O D S F B T J O H E F N B O E G P S D I S P O J D
B O E T Q F D J B M J T F E D B S F X I J M F T U S B J O J O H S F T P V S D F T B O E
X P S L G P S D F D B Q B D J U Z
4 % ( ( P P E ) F B M U I B O E 8 F M M # F J O H B J N T U P
H V B S B O U F F I F B M U I Z M J W F T B O E Q S P N P U F X F M M C F J O H G P S
Q F P Q M F P G B M M B H F T 5 I J T H P B M F O D P N Q B T T F T
B E E S F T T J O H B M M N B K P S I F B M U I Q S J P S J U J F T T V D I B T
D P N N V O J D B C M F O P O D P N N V O J D B C M F B O E
F O W J S P O N F O U B M E J T F B T F T S F Q S P E V D U J W F N B U F S O B M B O E
D I J M E I F B M U I V O J W F S T B M I F B M U I D P W F S B H F B O E F O T V S J O H
B D D F T T U P T B G F F G G F D U J W F R V B M J U Z B O E B G G P S E B C M F
N F E J D J O F T B O E W B D D J O F T 4 % ( Q B S U J D V M B S M Z U B S H F U T
S F E V D J O H D I J M E N P S U B M J U Z F O I B O D J O H N B U F S O B M I F B M U I
B O E D P N C B U J O H E J T F B T F T M J L F ) * 7 " * % 4 U V C F S D V M P T J T
N B M B S J B B O E P U I F S T X I J D I O P U P O M Z B G G F D U J O E J W J E V B M
X F M M C F J O H C V U B M T P T U S B J O G B N J M Z B O E Q V C M J D S F T P V S D F T
X I J M F X F B L F O J O H T P D J F U J F T
Figure 14: Maternal Mortality Ratio
(Per 100,000 live births)
0
50
100
150
200
250
2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020
India Southern Asia World
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022
India Southern Asia World
Figure 15: Under-five mortality rate,
(deaths per 1,000 live births)
Source: Estimates by WHO, UNICEF, UNFPA, World Bank
Group and UNDESA/Population Division. Geneva: World
Health Organization; 2023Source: United Nations Inter-agency Group for Child Mortality
Estimation (UN IGME), 2024.
ON TRACK TO MEET
MATERNAL, CHILD AND
INFANT MORTALITY
TARGETS WELL AHEAD OF
2030
* O E J B I B T N B E F J N Q S F T T J W F Q S P H S F T T J O L F Z I F B M U I
J O E J D B U P S T 5 I F . B U F S O B M . P S U B M J U Z 3 B U J P . . 3 I B T
E F D M J O F E T J H O J m D B O U M Z G S P N Q F S M B L I M J W F C J S U I T J O
U P Q F S M B L I J O N B S L J O H B
S F E V D U J P O 4 F F ' J H V S F * U I B T E F D M J O F E C Z
T J O D F X I J D I J T I J H I F S U I B O U I F H M P C B M E F D M J O F P G
5 I F * O G B O U . P S U B M J U Z 3 B U F * . 3 I B T G B M M F O G S P N
Q F S M J W F C J S U I T J O U P J O
20
* O T U J U V U J P O B M C J S U I T ø I B W F J O D S F B T F E T J H O J m D B O U M Z G S P N
U P ø ø B U U I F O B U J P O B M
M F W F M
ø / F P O B U B M . P S U B M J U Z 3 B U F / . 3 I B T E F D M J O F E
G S P N Q F S M J W F C J S U I T J O U P Q F S M J W F
C J S U I T J O 4 F F ' J H V S F
22
4 J N J M B S M Z U I F 6 O E F S
. P S U B M J U Z 3 B U F 6 . 3 I B T E F D S F B T F E G S P N Q F S
M J W F C J S U I T J O U P J O X I J D I
E F N P O T U S B U F T B I J H I F S E F D M J O F P G J O U I F S F E V D U J P O
P G N P S U B M J U Z J O D P N Q B S J T P O U P U I F H M P C B M S F E V D U J P O P G
T J O D F
23
4 F F ' J H V S F 5 I F T F
J N Q S P W F N F O U T J O E J D B U F U I B U * O E J B J T P O U S B D L U P N F F U J U T
4 % ( U B S H F U T G P S N B U F S O B M D I J M E B O E J O G B O U N P S U B M J U Z
X F M M B I F B E P G
J … n ÎÑ r J … … ( R 0 n Á R z ( á 0 n ns 0 X z J
Year Year
Maternal Mortality Ratio
(Maternal Deaths Per 100,000 live births
Under-five mortality rate,
(deaths per 1,000 live births)
Figure 16: Neonatal mortality rate (per 1,000 live births)
0
5
10
15
20
25
30
35
2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020
Total Rural Urban
Source: Office of the Registrar General and Census Commissioner, India, Ministry of Home Affairs
Year
Under-five mortality rate,
(deaths per 1,000 live births)
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J O U I F J S O E S E U S J N F T U F S T P G Q S F H O B O D Z B U
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B C P W F U I P G F W F S Z N P O U I ø
STRENGTHENING
UNIVERSAL HEALTH CARE
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T J H O J m D B O U Q S P H S F T T J O U I J T E P N B J O 5 I F T F
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N B U F S O B M B O E O F P O B U B M N P S U B M J U Z S B U F T B T X F M M B T
V O E F S m W F N P S U B M J U Z S B U F T
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J N N F O T F M Z C F O F m D J B M G P S D P O U B D U U S B D J O H T Z O E S P N J D
N B Q Q J O H B O E T F M G B T T F T T N F O U " S P C V T U O F U X P S L P G
M B C P S B U P S J F T G P S N B O B H J O H F Q J E F N J D T B O E O B U J P O B M
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5 I F ( P W F S O N F O U I B T B M T P T V D D F T T G V M M Z F T U B C M J T I F E
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* O G S B T U S V D U V S F . J T T J P O 1 . " # ) * . U I F M B S H F T U
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) F B M U I & N F S H F O D J F T B O E % J T F B T F 0 V U C S F B L T
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) F B M U I 3 $ ) B O E $ P N N V O J D B C M F % J T F B T F T T F S W J D F T
5 I F T F B M T P J O D M V E F T F S W J D F T S F M B U F E U P
/ P O $ P N N V O J D B C M F % J T F B T F T B T X F M M B T I F B M U I
Q S P N P U J P O B O E X F M M O F T T B D U J W J U J F T M J L F Z P H B
Launched in 2021, the i-DRONE initiative has demonstrated the successful use of drones to deliver essential medical supplies in states such as North East India (Covid-19 and UIP vaccines, medications and surgical), Himachal Pradesh (medications and samples in high altitude and sub-zero temperatures), Karnataka (intraoperative oncosurgical samples), Telangana (TB sputum samples) and the NCR (blood bags and its components). These efforts highlight the growing capability and promise of drones in bridging the last-mile healthcare gap.
USE OF DRONES
TO DELIVER ESSENTIAL
MEDICAL SUPPLIES
National One Health Mission for Pandemic
Preparedness is an integrated approach to tackling
diseases at the intersection of human, animal and
environmental health. This mission is a crucial step
W R Z D U G E X L O G L Q J , Q G L D · V F D S D F L W \ W R P D Q D J H ] R R Q R W L F
diseases and pandemics.
In 2022, India established the National Institute of
2 Q H + H D O W K W R I X U W K H U H [ S H G L W H W K H F R X Q W U \ · V H I I R U W V
in enhancing health research to serve our
Y X O Q H U D E O H S R S X O D W L R Q V 7 K H , Q V W L W X W H · V I R F X V L V R Q
increasing preparedness and laboratory capabilities
I R U L G H Q W L À F D W L R Q R I Q R Y H O D Q G X Q N Q R Z Q ] R R Q R W L F
agents. This dedicated institute is equipped with the
Biosafety Level (BSL-IV) laboratory. The goal is to
help in the investigation of outbreaks of emerging
zoonotic agents concerned with public health and
developing better control strategies.
, Q D À U V W R I L W V N L Q G L Q L W L D W L Y H , Q G L D L V D O V R V H W W R
E H J L Q D Q D P E L W L R X V L Q W H U P L Q L V W H U L D O V F L H Q W L À F V W X G \
aimed at detecting zoonotic diseases that could spill
over from birds to humans, focusing on the critical
L Q W H U V H F W L R Q R I K X P D Q E L U G D Q G I R U H V W K H D O W K ¬
INDIA AND ONE HEALTH
J … n ÎÑ r J … … ( R 0 n Á R z ( á 0 n ns 0 X z J
EXPANSION IN HEALTH
CARE COVERAGE
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" # 1 . + " : U I F M B S H F T U Q V C M J D M Z G V O E F E I F B M U I
B T T V S B O D F T D I F N F J O U I F X P S M E Q S P W J E F T I F B M U I
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D P N Q S F I F O T J W F I F B M U I C F O F m U Q B D L B H F T V O E F S
E J G G F S F O U T Q F D J B M J U J F T B O E J O X B T F Y Q B O E F E
U P Q S P W J E F ø I F B M U I D P W F S U P B Q Q S P Y J N B U F M Z N J M M J P O
J O E J W J E V B M C F O F m D J B S J F T D P S S F T Q P O E J O H U P
N J M M J P O G B N J M J F T D P O T U J U V U J O H F D P O P N J D B M M Z W V M O F S B C M F
C P U U P N P G * O E J B T Q P Q V M B U J P O
. B O Z 4 U B U F T 6 5 T
J N Q M F N F O U J O H " # 1 . + " : I B W F G V S U I F S F Y Q B O E F E U I F
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N P S F U I B O N J M M J P O " Z V T I N B O $ B S E T I B W F C F F O
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" Z V T I N B O D B S E T D S F B U F E B O E B Q Q S P Y J N B U F M Z P G
U P U B M B V U I P S J T F E I P T Q J U B M B E N J T T J P O T
* O U I F
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T F O J P S D J U J [ F O T B H F E Z F B S T B O E B C P W F 6 O E F S U I F
F Y Q B O T J P O U I F T F T F O J P S D J U J [ F O T B S F S F D F J W J O H
i " Z V T I N B O 7 B Z 7 B O E B O B $ B S E w X I J D I I F M Q T U I F N
B W B J M I F B M U I D B S F C F O F m U T J S S F T Q F D U J W F P G U I F J S
T P D J P F D P O P N J D T U B U V T " E E J U J P O B M M Z J O P S E F S U P C P P T U
I F B M U I D P W F S B H F B O " Z V T I N B O " Q Q I B T C F F O
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C F O F m D J B S J F T I B T C F F O F O B C M F E
I I … « ( n 0 R 0 n Á R ! « 0
SERVICES
0 V U P G Q P D L F U F Y Q F O E J U V S F 0 0 1 & P O I F B M U I B T B
Q F S D F O U B H F P G 5 P U B M ) F B M U I & Y Q F O E J U V S F 5 ) & J O U I F
D P V O U S Z I B T E F D M J O F E G S P N J O U P
J O
5 I F E F D M J O J O H U S F O E J O 0 0 1 & B T B
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P G * O E J B T I F B M U I D B S F T F S W J D F T 5 I F F D P O P N J D P V U Q V U
M P T U E V F U P / P O $ P N N V O J D B C M F % J T F B T F T / $ % T
F Y D M V E J O H N F O U B M D P O E J U J P O T J T F T U J N B U F E U P C F
U S J M M J P O G P S * O E J B G P S U I F Q F S J P E P G
5 P U B D L M F
U I J T % J T U S J D U / $ % $ M J O J D T % J T U S J D U % B Z $ B S F
$ F O U S F T $ B S E J B D $ B S F 6 O J U T B O E
$ P N N V O J U Z ) F B M U I $ F O U S F / $ % $ M J O J D T I B W F C F F O T F U
V Q V O E F S U I F / B U J P O B M 1 S P H S B N N F G P S 1 S F W F O U J P O B O E
$ P O U S P M P G / P O $ P N N V O J D B C M F % J T F B T F T
30
Atal Vayo Abhyuday Yojana (AVYAY) is being
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India Southern Asia World
Figure 17: Tuberculosis incidence (per 100,000 population)
Source: WHO Global Tuberculosis Report 2023
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Tuberculosis incidence (per 100,000 population)
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0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
90
100
2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023
Primary completion
India Southern Asia World
Figure 18: Completion rates for primary level (%)
T F D P O E B S Z M F W F M E S J W J O H U I F O B U J P O D M P T F S U P J U T W J T J P O P G J O D M V T J W F B O E F R V J U B C M F F E V D B U J P O G P S B M M School dropout rates have steadily declined in recent Z F B S T T U B O E J O H B U G P S Q S J N B S Z G P S V Q Q F S Q S J N B S Z B O E G P S T F D P O E B S Z M F W F M T
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Completion rates for primary level (%)
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0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
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100
2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023
Lower secondary completion
India Southern Asia World
Figure 19: Completion rates for lower secondary level (%)
Year
Completion rates for lower secondary level (%)
Year
Completion rates for upper secondary level (%)
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
90
100
2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023
Upper secondary completion
Figure 20: Completion rates for upper secondary level (%)
India Southern Asia World
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* $ 5 - B C " U B M 5 J O L F S J O H - B C 4 L J M M - B C 4 D I P P M * O O P W B U J P O $ P V O D J M T B N P O H P U I F S T
Á « z ³ I … « x X z J R X J R 0 «
EDUCATION
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F E V D B U J P O F D P T Z T U F N 5 P U B M ) J H I F S & E V D B U J P O
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J O U P J O
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N F B T V S F T U P B D I J F W F U I J T B J N J O D M V E F H S F B U F S
P Q Q P S U V O J U J F T G P S P V U T U B O E J O H Q V C M J D F E V D B U J P O
T D I P M B S T I J Q T C Z Q S J W B U F Q I J M B O U I S P Q J D V O J W F S T J U J F T G P S
E J T B E W B O U B H F E B O E V O E F S Q S J W J M F H F E T U V E F O U T P O M J O F
F E V D B U J P O B O E 0 Q F O % J T U B O D F - F B S O J O H 0 % - B O E
B M M J O G S B T U S V D U V S F B O E M F B S O J O H N B U F S J B M T B D D F T T J C M F
B O E B W B J M B C M F U P M F B S O F S T X J U I E J T B C J M J U J F T 7 B S J P V T
N F B T V S F T I B W F C F F O V O E F S U B L F O G P S U I F F Y Q B O T J P O P G
R V B M J U Z F E V D B U J P O T V D I B T Q S P W J E J O H N V D I O F F E F E
n F Y J C J M J U Z B M M P X J O H D S F B U J W F D P N C J O B U J P O P G T V C K F D U T
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F R V J W B M F O D F B O E N P C J M J U Z U P T U V E F O U T
5 I F 0 O F / B U J P O 0 O F 4 V C T D S J Q U J P O 0 / 0 4 4 D I F N F J T
E F N P D S B U J T J O H B D D F T T U P I J H I R V B M J U Z T D I P M B S M Z
S F T F B S D I J O * O E J B * U Q S P W J E F T B D D F T T U P P W F S
F K P V S O B M T G S P N M F B E J O H J O U F S O B U J P O B M Q V C M J T I F S T U P
O F B S M Z N J M M J P O T U V E F O U T G B D V M U Z B O E S F T F B S D I F S T
B D S P T T H P W F S O N F O U N B O B H F E ) & * T B O E $ F O U S B M
( P W F S O N F O U 3 % J O T U J U V U J P O T J O D M V E J O H O V N F S P V T
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# Z P G G F S J O H D F O U S B M J T F E
B D D F T T U P B W B T U B S S B Z P G J O U F S O B U J P O B M K P V S O B M T 0 / 0 4
B J N T U P C S J E H F F Y J T U J O H L O P X M F E H F H B Q T Q B S U J D V M B S M Z
C F O F m U J O H J O T U J U V U J P O T J O U J F S B O E D J U J F T
21
ST
CENTURY SKILLS AND
IMPROVING LEARNING
QUALITY
5 I F J N Q P S U B O D F P G T L J M M F E V D B U J P O J O T D I P P M T I B T
H S P X O T J H O J m D B O U M Z X J U I U I F B E W F O U P G * O E V T U S Z B
I J H I M Z E Z O B N J D B O E T L J M M J O U F O T J W F F S B E F m O F E C Z
B V U P N B U J P O B S U J m D J B M J O U F M M J H F O D F " * * O U F S O F U P G U I J O H T
* P 5 C J H E B U B B O E S P C P U J D T * O B O F G G P S U U P M F W F S B H F
U F D I O P M P H Z U P X B S E T F O I B O D J O H U I F D B Q B C J M J U J F T P G
F E V D B U P S T B O E Q S F Q B S J O H U I F N G P S U I F E F N B O E T P G U I F
T U D F O U V S Z U I F ( P W F S O N F O U I B T M B V O D I F E
5 F B D I F S " Q Q B D V U U J O H F E H F E J H J U B M Q M B U G P S N ø
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B X B S E T D I P M B S T I J Q T U P N F S J U P S J P V T T U V E F O U T P G
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0 O F M B L I G S F T I T D I P M B S T I J Q T B S F B X B S E F E U P
selected students of class IX every year and
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T U V E Z J O 4 U B U F ( P W F S O N F O U ( P W F S O N F O U B J E F E
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TEACH GAJAPATI: A JAN ANDOLAN
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T V T U B J O B C M F G V U V S F
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U I F P Q Q P S U V O J U Z U P E F W F M P Q Q S B D U J D B M T L J M M T B O E L O P X M F E H F G P S U I F S F T Q P O T J C M F V T F P G O B U V S B M S F T P V S D F T
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X J U I J O B O E C F Z P O E U I F T D I P P M F O W J S P O N F O U
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D P W F S J O H T F W F O D P S F U I F N F T P G . J T T J P O - J ' & 5 I F T F D B N Q T T B X B D U J W F Q B S U J D J Q B U J P O G S P N P W F S N J M M J P O
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N P O T P P O T F B T P O B T B N F B T V S F B H B J O T U E F T F S U J m D B U J P O
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P G N J M M J P O O F X & D P $ M V C T G P S . J T T J P O - J ' & F T U B C M J T I N F O U P G N P S F U I B O N J M M J P O 4 D I P P M / V U S J U J P O
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for the youth through partnerships with corporates
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BUILDING AWARENESS AMONGST STATES
ON CLIMATE CHANGE & GLOBAL WARMING
à X 0 ! … ! n È ³ I … « x X ³ ³ X … z n X I 0
J … n ÎÒ r ª È n X Á ç 0 ( È ! Á X … z
ACHIEVING 100% LITERACY
BY 2030
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parents of young children have changed
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successive cohort that passes through the
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early childhood section of the foundational stage in
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3 B T I U S J Z B 4 B S W F L T I B O F B S M J F S L O P X O B T / B U J P O B M
" D I J F W F N F O U 4 V S W F Z 5 I F M B U F T U P O F J O % F D F N C F S
ø D P W F S F E B Q Q S P Y J N B U F M Z N J M M J P O T U V E F O U T J O
T D I P P M T B D S P T T U I F D P V O U S Z
5 I J T
nationwide survey is helping assess the learning
D P N Q F U F O D J F T B U U I F F O E P G U I F G P V O E B U J P O B M
Q S F Q B S B U P S Z B O E N J E E M F T U B H F T P G T D I P P M J O H J F
T U V E F O U T D V S S F O U M Z J O ( S B E F T B O E # Z
H B U I F S J O H T B N Q M F E B U B P O T U V E F O U B D I J F W F N F O U
1 " 3 " , ) D B O J E F O U J G Z T Q F D J m D D P N Q F U F O D J F T X I F S F
T U V E F O U T N B Z C F T U S V H H M J O H B O E E F T J H O U B S H F U F E
J O U F S W F O U J P O T U P T V Q Q P S U U I F T F M F B S O J O H O F F E T
* O W F T U N F O U T J O T L J M M T S F T F B S D I J O O P W B U J P O
F D P T Z T U F N T H P W F S O N F O U B D B E F N J D Q B S U O F S T I J Q T
B O E G B D V M U Z E F W F M P Q N F O U B S F Q J W P U B M G P S F G m D J F O U M Z
E F M J W F S J O H F E V D B U J P O T F S W J D F T B O E J N Q S P W J O H
M F B S O J O H P V U D P N F T
J … n ÎÒ r ª È n X Á ç 0 ( È ! Á X … z
77
05
GOAL
Gender
Equality
Ending all discrimination against women and girls is a
basic human right and is a prerequisite for sustainable
development. Goal 5 calls for ending all forms of
W J P M F O D F U S B G m D L J O H B O E T F Y V B M F Y Q M P J U B U J P O P G X P N F O
and girls. Recognising and valuing unpaid care and
E P N F T U J D X P S L J T B L F Z D P N Q P O F O U P G U I J T H P B M X J U I
emphasis on the importance of full and effective
participation and equal opportunities for leadership at
B M M M F W F M T P G E F D J T J P O N B L J O H J O Q P M J U J D B M F D P O P N J D
and public life for women.
( M P C B M M Z Q S P H S F T T U P X B S E T H F O E F S F R V B M J U Z J T M B H H J O H
Although the prevalence rates of harmful practices
such as child marriage and female genital mutilation
are decreasing worldwide, the progress remains
V O F W F O ( F O E F S Q B S J U Z F T Q F D J B M M Z J O X P N F O T
participation in public life and managerial roles
remains distant. At the current rate achieving gender
Q B S J U Z J O N B O B H F S J B M Q P T J U J P O T X J M M U B L F Z F B S T
44
Furthermore, violence against women persists.
Urgent action is needed to challenge biased social
norms, eliminate harmful practices and change
E J T D S J N J O B U P S Z M B X T * O D S F B T J O H X P N F O T M F B E F S T I J Q
S P M F T B O E J O W F T U N F O U T J O H F O E F S F R V B M J U Z B S F D S V D J B M B U
the national, regional and global levels.
4 % ( ( F O E F S & R V B M J U Z B J N T U P B D I J F W F H F O E F S
F R V B M J U Z B O E F N Q P X F S B M M X P N F O B O E H J S M T * U F O T V S F T
equal rights, opportunities and treatment for all
individuals, irrespective of their gender. Ending all
forms of discrimination against women and girls is not
P O M Z B C B T J D I V N B O S J H I U C V U B M T P D S V D J B M G P S U I F
sustainable future of societies. Providing women and
girls with equal access to education, healthcare,
E F D F O U X P S L B O E S F Q S F T F O U B U J P O J O Q P M J U J D B M B O E
F D P O P N J D E F D J T J P O N B L J O H Q S P D F T T F T X J M M M F B E U P
T V T U B J O B C M F F D P O P N J F T B O E C F O F m U T P D J F U J F T B O E
I V N B O J U Z B U M B S H F 4 % ( B J N T U P F O E B M M G P S N T P G
E J T D S J N J O B U J P O B H B J O T U X P N F O B O E H J S M T F W F S Z X I F S F * U
is vital to ensure women have equal rights to land and
Q S P Q F S U Z T F Y V B M B O E S F Q S P E V D U J W F I F B M U I B O E B D D F T T
U P U F D I O P M P H Z B O E U I F J O U F S O F U
5 P E B Z J O * O E J B U I F Q S P H S F T T P O 4 % ( J T S F D F J W J O H
renewed focus. Greater awareness across all
T F H N F O U T P G T P D J F U Z P G U I F J N Q P S U B O D F U I B U N V T U C F
Q M B D F E P O B D I J F W J O H H S F B U F S H F O E F S F R V B M J U Z 5 I F
Government has also initiated several social
Q S P U F D U J P O B O E m O B O D J B M J O D M V T J P O Q S P H S B N N F T
focusing on women, increasing their participation.
* O J U J B U J W F T M J L F # F U J # B D I B P # F U J 1 B E I B P # # # 1 I B W F
S B J T F E B X B S F O F T T B O E J N Q S P W F E U I F F G m D J F O D Z P G
welfare services for girls.
* O E J B I B T P W F S N J M M J P O F M F D U F E X P N F O
representatives at grassroots level, a scale of
S F Q S F T F O U B U J P O V O Q B S B M M F M F E H M P C B M M Z
45
Envisioning
4 F M G ) F M Q ( S P V Q T B T W F I J D M F T P G D I B O H F U P E B Z
million women are transforming the rural
M B O E T D B Q F F D P O P N J D B M M Z B O E U B L J O H H S F B U F S
leadership at grassroots level.
Although the proportion of women holding seats in
legislative bodies at national level remains lower than
in some other parts of the world, this number is
H S P X J O H T U F B E J M Z B O E * O E J B B M S F B E Z I B T N P S F X P N F O
J O M P D B M H P W F S O N F O U T U I B O U I F H M P C B M B W F S B H F * O * O E J B
more than 45% of representatives in deliberative local
C P E J F T P G ( P W F S O N F O U F H ( S B N 1 B O D I B Z B U 7 J M M B H F
$ P V O D J M 1 B O D I B Z B U 4 B N B J U # M P D L $ P V O D J M B O E ; J M B
1 B S J T I B E % J T U S J D U $ P V O D J M B S F X P N F O 5 I J T J T G B S N P S F
U I B O U I F H M P C B M B W F S B H F P G 4 F F ' J H V S F "
N J M F T U P O F J O U I F K P V S O F Z U P G V S U I F S F Y Q B O E X P N F O T
S F Q S F T F O U B U J P O J O F M F D U F E P G m D F I B T C F F O B D I J F W F E C Z
U I F Q B T T J O H P G U I F ø / B S J 4 I B L U J 7 B O E B O " E I J O J Z B N
X I J D I T F F L T U P S F T F S W F P O F U I J S E ø P G U I F U P U B M
O V N C F S P G T F B U T G P S X P N F O J O - P L 4 B C I B 4 U B U F
- F H J T M B U J W F " T T F N C M J F T B O E % F M I J " T T F N C M Z ø
FROM WOMEN’S
DEVELOPMENT TO
á … x 0 zs n 0 ( ( 0 à 0 n … ¨ x 0 z Á
* O E J B h T E F W F M P Q N F O U K P V S O F Z J T D M P T F M Z J O U F S M J O L F E X J U I
the empowerment of its women. Recognising this
D S J U J D B M D P O O F D U J P O U I F ( P W F S O N F O U I B T Q M B D F E ø / B S J
4 I B L U J ø B U U I F G P S F G S P O U P G J U T B H F O E B 5 I F ( P W F S O N F O U
V O E F S T U B O E T U I B U X P N F O h T F N Q P X F S N F O U J T O P U B
one-time solution; it requires a comprehensive
approach that addresses their needs throughout their
M J W F T * O U I J T S F H B S E X F M G B S F Q S P H S B N N F T I B W F C F F O
designed to support women at different stages
enabling them to overcome socio-economic barriers
B O E B D I J F W F X I P M F T P N F F N Q P X F S N F O U # Z T I J G U J O H
the narrative from women as recipients of welfare to
agents of empowerment, the Government is
B E E S F T T J O H H F O E F S E J T D S J N J O B U J P O C Z Q S P N P U J O H
education, health, housing, entrepreneurship and
T B G F U Z G P S X P N F O 5 P E B Z J U J T O P U K V T U B C P V U X P N F O h T
development but women-led development.
J … n ÎÓ r J 0 z ( 0 « 0 ª È n X Á ç
44.37
45.61
33.89 33.92 34.28
35.47
0.00
5.00
10.00
15.00
20.00
25.00
30.00
35.00
40.00
45.00
50.00
2018 2020 2021 2022 2023
India World
Year
Proportion of elected seats held by women
in deliberative bodies of local government (%)
Figure 21: Proportion of elected seats held by women
in deliberative bodies of local government (%)
Source: UN Women in collaboration with ESCAP Statistics Division, National Indicator Framework, MoSPI and
Ministry of Panchayati Raj Institutions. Administrative data based on election results at the level of Gram
Panchayat, Panchayat Samiti, and Zila Parishad.
¶ 0 L V V L R Q 6 K D N W L · L V D Q H Q G H D Y R X U E \ W K H * R Y H U Q P H Q W
W K D W L Q F O X G H V L Q W H U Y H Q W L R Q V W R H Q V X U H Z R P H Q · V V D I H W \
security and empowerment. Under the mission, One
Stop Centres are providing integrated support and
assistance to women affected by violence and those
in distress, both in private and public spaces in a
convergent and coordinated manner under one roof.
Women Helplines (181-WHL) offer 24 x 7 x 365 toll
free emergency/non-emergency response services.
A total of 888 One Stop Centres (OSCs) have been approved out of which 802 OSCs are operational in 785
districts and assisting over 1 million women.
47
These centres have been set-up to provide integrated support
and assistance to women affected by violence and in distress, both in private and public spaces under one
U R R I D Q G W R I D F L O L W D W H L P P H G L D W H H P H U J H Q F \ D Q G Q R Q H P H U J H Q F \ D F F H V V W R D U D Q J H R I V H U Y L F H V W R À J K W
against any forms of violence against women.
¨ « … à X ( X z J X z Á 0 J « Á 0 ( ³ È ¨ ¨ … « Á z (
³ ³ X ³ Á z ! 0 Á … á … x 0 z
This is also integrated with the national Emergency
Response Support System (112) and other existing
helplines/institutions. The Nari Adalat initiative is
empowering women by offering services such as
alternate dispute resolution, grievance redressal,
counselling, evidence-based decision-making,
pressure group tactics, negotiation, mediation and
reconciliation.
J … n ÎÓ r J 0 z ( 0 « 0 ª È n X Á ç
6 K K X B M B B O E 4 X B E I B S ( S F I S F O B N F E B T 4 I B L U J
4 B E B O J T B O * O U F H S B U F E 3 F M J F G B O E 3 F I B C J M J U B U J P O
Home for women in distress situations including
U S B G m D L F E X P N F O 8 P S L J O H 8 P N F O ) P T U F M T S F O B N F E
B T 4 B L I J / J X B T Q S P N P U F B W B J M B C J M J U Z P G T B G F B O E
D P O W F O J F O U M Z M P D B U F E B D D P N N P E B U J P O G P S X P S L J O H
women in urban, semi-urban and also in rural areas
X I F S F F N Q M P Z N F O U P Q Q P S U V O J U J F T G P S X P N F O F Y J T U 5 I F
/ B U J P O B M $ S F D I F 4 D I F N F S F O B N F E B T 1 B M O B B J N T U P
J O D S F B T F U I F Q B S U J D J Q B U J P O P G X P N F O J O U I F X P S L G P S D F
J O U I F F D P O P N Z C Z Q S P W J E J O H R V B M J U Z D S Ò D I F G B D J M J U J F T J O
a safe and secure environment for children.
4 " / , " - 1 ) V C G P S & N Q P X F S N F O U P G 8 P N F O ) & 8
facilitates intersectoral convergence of schemes and
programmes meant for women and serves as a single
window inter-sectoral convergence mechanism
Q S P W J E F E G P S B M M X P N F O U P B W B J M U I F C F O F m U T P G
H P W F S O N F O U T D I F N F T * U E J T T F N J O B U F T J O G P S N B U J P O
S F M B U F E U P X P N F O F N Q P X F S N F O U T B G F U Z B O E T F D V S J U Z
and to ensure that women have access to correct
information as well as the means to access the
A total of 8.438 million women have been assisted by the 181 Women Helpline across the country since
inception till 31 January 2025.
8 P N F O h T F N Q P X F S N F O U J T D P O U J O H F O U V Q P O U I F
F D P O P N J D F N Q P X F S N F O U P G X P N F O 5 I B U J T X I Z U I F
( P W F S O N F O U I B T U B L F O T U F Q T U P Q S P N P U F m O B O D J B M
J O D M V T J P O B N P O H X P N F O U I S P V H I J O J U J B U J W F T M J L F
4 U B O E 6 Q * O E J B B O E 1 S B E I B O . B O U S J . V E S B : P K B O B
1 . . : 5 I F 4 U B O E 6 Q * O E J B T D I F N F G P D V T F T P O
Q S P W J E J O H T V Q Q P S U G P S U I F F T U B C M J T I N F O U P G H S F F O m F M E
F O U F S Q S J T F T B N P O H X P N F O 4 D I F E V M F E $ B T U F T 4 $
B O E 4 D I F E V M F E 5 S J C F T 4 5 4 J N J M B S M Z 1 . . : B J N T U P
Q S P W J E F m O B O D J B M B T T J T U B O D F U P O P O D P S Q P S B U F
F O U J U M F N F O U T 4 J O D F J U T J O D F Q U J P O J O U J M M U I F F O E P G
B U P U B M P G X P N F O I B W F C F F O
supported through the hub.
0 U I F S T D I F N F T Q S P K F D U T J N Q M F N F O U F E C Z U I F
H P W F S O N F O U U P F O T V S F X P N F O T T B G F U Z J O D M V E F B
D Z C F S D S J N F S F Q P S U J O H Q P S U B M U P S F Q P S U P C T D F O F
D P O U F O U B O E F T U B C M J T I N F O U P G 4 U B U F P G " S U % / "
- B C P S B U P S Z U P T U S F O H U I F O ' P S F O T J D 4 D J F O D F * O
B E E J U J P O U P U I J T ' B T U 5 S B D L 4 Q F D J B M $ P V S U T ' 5 4 $ T
I B W F C F F O F T U B C M J T I F E J O D M V E J O H F Y D M V T J W F 1 0 $ 4 0
F 1 0 $ 4 0 $ P V S U T G P S T Q F F E Z E J T Q P T B M P G D B T F T P G
rape and cases under POCSO Act. Anti-Human
5 S B G m D L J O H 6 O J U T " ) 5 6 T I B W F C F F O T F U V Q B O E
T U S F O H U I F O F E J O B M M E J T U S J D U T P G U I F D P V O U S Z 8 P N F O
) F M Q % F T L T 8 ) % T I B W F C F F O T F U V Q B O E P S
strengthened at Police Stations. The Government has
B M T P Q V U J O Q M B D F U I F * O W F T U J H B U J P O 5 S B D L J O H 4 Z T U F N G P S
4 F Y V B M 0 G G F O D F T B O P O M J O F B O B M Z U J D U P P M G P S U S B D L J O H
B O E N P O J U P S J O H P G J O W F T U J H B U J P O " / B U J P O B M % B U B C B T F
P G 4 F Y V B M 0 G G F O E F S T / % 4 0 I B T B M T P C F F O D S F B U F E
O P O G B S N N J D S P B O E T N B M M F O U F S Q S J T F T " S P V O E
of the loans have been sanctioned to women
F O U S F Q S F O F V S T V O E F S 1 . . : B O E P G U I F
C F O F m D J B S J F T V O E F S 4 U B O E 6 Q * O E J B B S F X P N F O
48
. B I J M B 4 B N N B O 4 B W J O H T $ F S U J m D B U F X B T J O U S P E V D F E
B T Q B S U P G U I F 6 O J P O # V E H F U X I J D I J T B
T N B M M T B W J O H T T D I F N F F Y D M V T J W F M Z G P S G F N B M F
investors. These initiatives have enabled women to
chart their paths and contribute to the economic
growth of the nation.
404 Shakti Sadans have been established across the country to provide temporary shelter along with basic Q H F H V V L W L H V W R G H V W L W X W H Z R P H Q D Q G Z R P H Q Z K R D U H Y L F W L P V R I W U D I À F N L Q J 6 S H F L À F D O O \ L Q 7 H O D Q J D Q D W K H 6 W D W H Government has signed a MoU with a technical university where the residents of Shakti Sadan are eligible to undergo short-term or medium-term vocational education that will assist them in employment after their time in Shakti Sadan.
³ R k Á X ³ ( z r X z Á 0 J « Á 0 ( « 0 n X 0 I
z ( « 0 R X n X Á Á X … z R … x 0
J … n ÎÓ r J 0 z ( 0 « 0 ª È n X Á ç
The Women Entrepreneurship Platform (WEP) is an aggregator platform launched in 2018 that transitioned into
a public-private partnership (PPP) in 2022. WEP serves as an aggregator platform working on building a robust
entrepreneurial ecosystem for women towards enabling the goal of the government to promote women-led
development through entrepreneurship.
Premised on three foundational pillars of ichcha shakti (the power of motivation), gyaan shakti (the power of
knowledge) and karam shakti (power of action), WEP endeavours to support women in setting up and scaling
up enterprises by overcoming information asymmetry and providing hand-holding support by in six key
ecosystem needs, viz. Access to Finance; Market Linkages; Training and Skilling; Mentoring and Networking;
Compliance and Legal Assistance and Business Development Services.
, Q : ( 3 O D X Q F K H G L W V Á D J V K L S $ Z D U G 7 R 5 H Z D U G $ 7 5 L Q L W L D W L Y H L Q D Q D W W H P S W W R I R U P X O D W H D I U D P H Z R U N W R
on-board partners to collaborate. ATR is a plug and play framework that enables entities – both individuals and
R U J D Q L V D W L R Q V ² I U R P G L I I H U H Q W À H O G V W R Z R U N L Q D S U R J U D P P D W L F D S S U R D F K V H D P O H V V O \ 6 L Q F H W K H O D X Q F K R I W K H
À U V W $ 7 5 L Q 2 F W R E H U V R I D U $ 7 5 V K D Y H E H H Q O D X Q F K H G L P S D F W L Q J Z R P H Q D Q G U H Z D U G L Q J E H V W
performers in diverse sectors like green tech, retail, hospitality etc.
WEP has a robust knowledge portal that houses information on 835 Government schemes, 500+ incubators
and accelerators and 36 mentorship programmes. This helps overcome information asymmetry by providing
seamless access to relevant information. Recognising the importance of mentorship, WEP has both digital and
S K \ V L F D O L Q L W L D W L Y H V W R S U R P R W H : ( 3 K D V D V S H F L À F S R U W D O W K D W S U R Y L G H V R Q H W R R Q H P H Q W R U V K L S W R Z R P H Q D Q G
presently has more than 630 mentors on the platform.
WEP has achieved a major milestone of completing 7-years and reaching over 50,000 registered users, a
number that is growing. It has more than 40 partner organisations to support its initiatives. WEP has mobilised
a substantial number of volunteers who work pro bono to further its cause in varied ways. These partnerships
drive knowledge sharing, funding opportunities, mentorship programmes and business growth strategies
D L P H G V S H F L À F D O O \ D W Z R P H Q O H G E X V L Q H V V H V
¨ « … x … Á X z J Á R 0 à n È 0 … I
Á R 0 J X « n ! R X n (
O O F P G U I F L F Z J O J U J B U J W F T G P S X P N F O T F N Q P X F S N F O U J O
U I F D P V O U S Z I B T C F F O U I F # F U J # B D I B P # F U J 1 B E I B P
# # # 1 T D I F N F X I J D I I B T H F O F S B U F E T J H O J m D B O U N B T T
mobilisation to combat gender discrimination and
Q S P N P U F U I F W B M V F P G U I F H J S M D I J M E " U F W F S Z M F W F M U I F
T D I F N F I B T X P S L F E E J M J H F O U M Z U P S B J T F B X B S F O F T T B C P V U
U I F S J H I U T P G H J S M D I J M E S F O U I S P V H I D P N N V O J U Z
F O H B H F N F O U B O E B E W P D B U J O H B H B J O T U T F Y T F M F D U J P O B U
C J S U I 0 W F S U I F Z F B S T U I F S F I B T C F F O B D P N N F O E B C M F
J N Q S P W F N F O U J O U I F T F Y S B U J P B U C J S U I X J U I B O F U D I B O H F
P G Q P J O U T G S P N U P
48
á … x 0 z 0 z Á « 0 ¨ « 0 z 0 È « ³ R X ¨ ¨ n Á I … « x h á 0 ¨i
. D Q \ D - D Q P R W V D Y L V D Á D J V K L S L Q L W L D W L Y H X Q G H U W K H % H W L % D F K D R % H W L 3 D G K D R % % % 3 L Q 8 W W D U 3 U D G H V K D L P H G D W transforming societal mindsets. The initiative celebrates the birth of girl children, challenges patriarchal norms and reinforces the importance of gender equality. It seeks to create a society where girls are born, nurtured and educated D V H T X D O V H P S R Z H U H G W R E H F R P H I X W X U H O H D G H U V 7 K L V S U R J U D P P H L V R U J D Q L V H G R Q W K H À U V W D Q G W K L U G 0 R Q G D \ R I every month so that a continuous and sustained message about the value of girl child is spread in the society.
k z ç h z x … Á ³ àJ J … … ( ¨ « ! Á X ! 0 È z ( 0 « 0 Á X
! R … 0 Á X ¨ ( R … X z È Á Á « ¨ « ( 0 ³ R
J … n ÎÓ r J 0 z ( 0 « 0 ª È n X Á ç
á ç I … « á « (
India will continue its policy efforts and leadership at
national, state, district, block and village levels to
monitor and advance progress on gender equality and
ensure the empowerment of women and girls.
In India, as per the Periodic Labour Force Survey,
R I Z R P H Q L G H Q W L À H G F K L O G F D U H D Q G
homemaking responsibilities as barriers,
underscoring the need for societal and policy
interventions to balance work and family.
As per National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5)
23.3% of women aged 20- 24 years were married
before the age of 18 years in 2019-21. This shows
that prevalence of child marriage, which was
approximately 47% reported under NFHS-3 in
2005-06, has declined by more than half since
enactment of the 'The Prohibition of Child Marriage
Act, 2006' (PCMA). Government enacted PCMA to
curb child marriages and to take punitive action
against those associated with child marriages. Further
progress can be supported through initiatives like
¶ & K L O G + H O S O L Q H · Z K L F K S U R Y L G H H P H U J H Q F \ R X W U H D F K
service for children in crisis, with suitable
interventions for children who call for any form of
assistance which they may require, including for
prevention of child marriages. These issues are
addressed in coordination with different stakeholders
such as police, CMPOs,and the District Child
Protection Units.
As women persist in overcoming obstacles and
breaking down barriers, their advancement fuels
empowerment, generates employment opportunities
and lays the groundwork for more inclusive economic
development, an effort that will continue to be
supported by various government initiatives aimed at
promoting women's economic empowerment.
83
06
GOAL
Clean
Water and
Sanitation
Goal 6 calls for access to safe and affordable drinking
water, sanitation facilities, water resource
management and hygiene for all by 2030. Water
resources are also critical for agriculture and
industrial use and therefore protecting and restoring
water-related ecosystems is essential. The goal is
aimed at improving water quality by reducing
Q P M M V U J P O T V C T U B O U J B M M Z J O D S F B T J O H X B U F S V T F F G m D J F O D Z
across all sectors and strengthening the participation
of local communities in improving water and
sanitation management.
Clean water and sanitation are essential for promoting
good health, preventing the spread of diseases and
ensuring overall well-being. Access to clean water
and proper sanitation facilities is a fundamental
human right and a crucial aspect of sustainable
development. Clean water and sanitation protect
people from disease and enhance their economic
productivity. Water scarcity, poor water quality and
inadequate hygiene negatively impact food security,
livelihood choices and educational opportunities for
low-income families worldwide. The 2030 Agenda
recognises that social development and economic
prosperity depend on the sustainable management of
freshwater resources and ecosystems.
ENSURING UNIVERSAL
ACCESS TO SAFE AND
AFFORDABLE DRINKING
WATER
Despite facing substantial demand and limited water
resources, India is committed to providing safe and
potable tap water supply in adequate quantity, of
prescribed quality and on a regular and long-term
basis to all rural households in the country. The Jal
Jeevan Mission has been instrumental in ensuring the
Q S P W J T J P O P G T V G m D J F O U X B U F S B O E T B O J U B U J P O
infrastructure. The Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) was
launched in 2019 with the ambitious goal of providing
portable tap water in adequate quantity to every rural
household by 2024. At the time of its inception, only
32.3 million (17%) of rural households had tap water
connections. By March 2025, out of 193.6 million rural
households in the country, more than 155.4 million
(80.26%) households are reported to have tap water
supply in their homes.
50
This initiative is not only
delivering clean water to all but also reducing the
rural-urban divide and enhancing public health.
6 L Q F H ¬ , Q G L D K D V E H H Q R U J D Q L V L Q J , Q G L D : D W H U : H H N D S L Y R W D O H Y H Q W L Q J O R E D O Z D W H U G L S O R P D F \ R I I H U L Q J D S O D W I R U P I R U G L D O R J X H L Q Q R Y D W L R Q D Q G N Q R Z O H G J H V K D U L Q J ( D F K H G L W L R Q I R F X V H V R Q D V S H F L À F Z D W H U U H O D W H G L V V X H S U R Y L G L Q J S R O L F \ P D N H U V H [ S H U W V D Q G L Q G X V W U \ O H D G H U V W K H R S S R U W X Q L W \ W R S U H V H Q W V R O X W L R Q V D Q G H [ S O R U H F R R S H U D W L Y H V W U D W H J L H V 7 K H W K H G L W L R Q Z D V K H O G L Q X Q G H U W K H W K H P H 3 D U W Q H U V K L S V D Q G & R R S H U D W L R Q I R U , Q F O X V L Y H : D W H U ' H Y H O R S P H Q W D Q G 0 D Q D J H P H Q W
The implementation of the Jal Jeevan Mission has C S P V H I U T J H O J m D B O U J N Q S P W F N F O U T J O S V S B M M J G F B T highlighted by several national and international institutions. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimated that achieving saturation under JJM will result in savings of more than 55 million hours of time every day, of which approximately 75% of the burden is borne by women. WHO has also estimated that ensuring safely managed drinking water for all households in the country could prevent nearly 4,00,000 deaths caused by diarrheal diseases leading to savings of approximately 14 million Disability Adjusted Life Years (DALYs), resulting in economic savings of around US $101 billion. The Indian Institute of Management Bangalore in partnership with ILO has estimated that implementation of the JJM shall result in 5.99 million person-years of direct and 22 million person-years of indirect employment during the capex phase of JJM in the country through manpower engaged in production of the materials such as pipes, valves, pumps etc.
Jal Jeevan Mission operates on a decentralised and community-driven model, prioritising the active involvement of local communities. By encouraging community participation in planning, implementation and management, the Mission not only ensures the sustainability of water supply systems but also instil a sense of ownership and empowerment among the rural communities. Ensuring water quality is one of the main objectives of the Jal Jeevan Mission. To ensure that the supplied water is of adequate quality the programme promotes regular testing of water samples at source and delivery points.
J … n ÎÔ r ! n 0 z á Á 0 « z ( ³ z X Á Á X … z
85
UNIVERSAL SANITATION
To accelerate the efforts to achieve universal sanitation
coverage, the Swachh Bharat Mission was
implemented as nation-wide campaign/Janandolan
aimed at eliminating open defecation in rural areas
during the period 2014 to 2019 (Phase I) through mass
scale behaviour change, construction of
household-owned and community-owned toilets and
establishing mechanisms for monitoring toilet
construction and usage. Swachh Bharat Mission
Grameen (SBM-G) Phase I was the world’s largest
sanitation drive that led to the construction of over 100
N J M M J P O J O E J W J E V B M I P V T F I P M E U P J M F U T P W F S B m W F Z F B S
period. The population living in households that use an
improved sanitation facility has increased to 70.2%
(NFHS-5 2019-21) from 48.5% (NFHS-4 2015-16).
51
More than 6 lakh villages declared themselves Open
Defecation Free (ODF) by 2nd October 2019. Building
on this success, SBM-G Phase II aims to achieve
Sampoorn Swachhata with a continued emphasis on
sustaining Open Defecation Free (ODF) status, while
also focusing on: sustaining ODF status, promotion of
twin pit (in-situ treatment), managing solid and liquid
waste, achieving visual cleanliness in rural areas and
transforming villages into ODF Plus models. As reported
by UNICEF, this initiative has reduced groundwater
7 H F K Q R O R J \ L V H Q D E O L Q J H I À F L H Q W W U D Q V S D U H Q W D Q G V X V W D L Q D E O H Z D W H U V X S S O \ P D Q D J H P H Q W L Q U X U D O D U H D V 6 W D W H V 8 7 V K D Y H O H Y H U D J H G L Q Q R Y D W L Y H W H F K Q R O R J L H V W R L P S U R Y H V H U Y L F H G H O L Y H U \ D F F R X Q W D E L O L W \ D Q G U H D O W L P H G H F L V L R Q P D N L Q J
• ´ - K D U - D O µ ' L J L W D O 3 O D W I R U P L Q - K D U N K D Q G X V H V * , 6 P D S S L Q J I R U H I I H F W L Y H V F K H P H D Q G D V V H W P R Q L W R U L Q J
L Q W H J U D W H V Z D W H U T X D O L W \ D V V H V V P H Q W V D Q G J U L H Y D Q F H U H G U H V V D O P H F K D Q L V P V D Q G H Q V X U H V H T X L W D E O H D Q G V D I H G U L Q N L Q J Z D W H U V X S S O \
• 6 P D U W : D W H U 0 D Q D J H P H Q W L Q * R D L P S O H P H Q W V G L J L W D O Z D W H U P H W H U V D Q G D G L J L W D O S D \ P H Q W V \ V W H P D Q G K D V D Q
, R 7 E D V H G V P D U W Z D W H U P D Q D J H P H Q W I R U U H D O W L P H P R Q L W R U L Q J , W H Q K D Q F H V X V H U F K D U J H F R O O H F W L R Q D Q G H Q V X U H V H T X L W D E O H Z D W H U G L V W U L E X W L R Q
• ´ - - 0 % 5 $ , 1 µ % X L O G L Q J 5 H O L D Q W D Q G $ Q D O \ W L F D O , Q I R U P D W L R Q 1 H W Z R U N L Q $ V V D P L V D F R P S U H K H Q V L Y H G L J L W D O
S O D W I R U P G H V L J Q H G W R V W U H D P O L Q H D Q G F H Q W U D O L V H W K H L P S O H P H Q W D W L R Q D Q G R S H U D W L R Q R I 3 L S H : D W H U 6 X S S O \ 6 F K H P H V 3 : 6 6 , W I H D W X U H V D & R Q W U D F W R U 7 D V N 6 X E P L V V L R Q 6 \ V W H P D Q G D Q L Q W H J U D W H G 3 X E O L F * U L H Y D Q F H 5 H G U H V V D O 6 \ V W H P 3 * 5 6 E R W K O L Q N H G W R D X Q L T X H 4 5 F R G H E D V H G L G H Q W L À H U F D O O H G - D O . R V K Z K L F K F D S W X U H V V W D W L F D Q G G \ Q D P L F V F K H P H G D W D - - 0 % 5 $ , 1 H Q K D Q F H V S U R M H F W W U D F N L Q J S H U I R U P D Q F H J X D U D Q W H H P D Q D J H P H Q W D Q G L Q F R U S R U D W H V * , 6 P D S S L Q J I R U V S D W L D O D Q D O \ V L V H Q D E O L Q J H I À F L H Q W W U D Q V S D U H Q W D Q G G D W D G U L Y H Q G H F L V L R Q P D N L Q J D F U R V V D O O O H Y H O V R I V F K H P H H [ H F X W L R Q
contamination by 12.7 times in ODF villages. Additionally, women in ODF villages have reported feeling 93% safer after access to household toilets.
52
Toilet facilities in India have improved substantially, with both access and quality of sanitation J O G S B T U S V D U V S F T I P X J O H T J H O J m D B O U H B J O T F T Q F D J B M M Z J O rural areas. According to NFHS-5 (2019-21), 69% of households have access to improved sanitation facilities, 64% of rural households and 81% of urban households have access to improved, not shared facilities (See Figure 22).
TECHNOLOGY TRANSFORMING THE IMPLEMENTATION
… I Á R 0 h n h 0 0 à z x X ³ ³ X … z h h h xi
J … n ÎÔ r ! n 0 z á Á 0 « z ( ³ z X Á Á X … z
86
Figure 22: Household Toilet Facilities by Residence,
2019-2021 (Percent of population)
No facility / uses open space / field Unimproved Shared facility Improved, not shared facility
19
26
6.1
2.9
3.1
2.7
8.4
7.4
11
69
64
81
Total Rural Urban
6 R X U F H 1 D W L R Q D O ) D P L O \ + H D O W K 6 X U Y H \ 5 R X Q G
J … n ÎÔ r ! n 0 z á Á 0 « z ( ³ z X Á Á X … z
87
Figure 23: Percentage of sewage treated before discharge into surface water bodies
27.96
47.96
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
2020 2022
Percentage of sewage treated before discharge
into surface water bodies
6 R X U F H 0 L Q L V W U \ R I ( Q Y L U R Q P H Q W ) R U H V W D Q G & O L P D W H & K D Q J H
IMPROVED WATER
RESOURCES MANAGEMENT
In addition to Jal Jeevan, the Government of India has
initiated a number of steps and launched various
schemes/ programmes for making availability of
water, its conservation and distribution, which have
led to steady improvement in India’s degree of
integrated water resources management. This is
S F n F D U F E J O J N Q S P W F N F O U B D S P T T B M M G P V S E J N F O T J P O T
enabling environment, institutions and participation,
N B O B H F N F O U J O T U S V N F O U T B O E m O B O D J O H C F U X F F O
2020 and 2023 (See Figure 24).
Simultaneously, SBM-Urban 2.0, launched in 2021
has a vision of achieving Garbage Free Status for all
cities through 100% source segregation, door to door
D P M M F D U J P O B O E T D J F O U J m D N B O B H F N F O U P G B M M G S B D U J P O T P G
X B T U F J O D M V E J O H T B G F E J T Q P T B M J O T D J F O U J m D M B O E m M M T
The aim is to ensure that no untreated faecal sludge or
used water is discharged into the environment, and all
used water (including sewerage and septage,
greywater and black water) is safely contained,
transported and treated. It also aims at remediation of
all legacy dumpsites and converting them into green
zones. Various municipal solid waste management
plants such as Waste-to-Compost (WtC),
Waste-to-Energy (WtE), Bio-methanation, Material
Recovery Facilities (MRF) and legacy waste
dumpsites remediation have been established.
Technology-driven initiatives such as the Swachhata
App and Google toilet locator have enhanced citizen
engagement and strengthened governance, in the
process ensuring timely grievance redressal and
improved access to sanitation facilities.
5 I F T F F G G P S U T N B S L B T J H O J m D B O U T U F Q U P X B S E T
sustained sanitation and inclusive hygiene practices
across rural and urban India. For instance, there has
been a substantial increase in the percentage of
sewage treated before discharge into surface water
bodies (See Figure 23).
Year
J … n ÎÔ r ! n 0 z á Á 0 « z ( ³ z X Á Á X … z
88
India Southern Asia World
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
2017 2020 2023
Section 3. Management instruments (%)
India
Southern Asia World
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
2017 2020 2023
4. Financing (%)
National Water Mission has been launched with the
objective of conservation of water, minimising
wastage and ensuring its more equitable distribution
both across and within States through integrated
X B U F S S F T P V S D F T E F W F M P Q N F O U B O E N B O B H F N F O U ø
Under this mission a campaign namely "SahiFasal"
has also been initiated to nudge farmers to favour
agricultural crops which consume less water and to
V T F X B U F S N P S F F G m D J F O U M Z J O B H S J D V M U V S F B T B Q B S U P G
E F N B O E T J E F N B O B H F N F O U ø " M T P U P Q S P N P U F E J B M P H V F
and information sharing among participants on a
variety of water related topics, a monthly seminar
series - “Water Talk” has been initiated with intent to
create awareness, build capacities of stakeholders
and to encourage people to become active
participants in the conservation and saving of water.
5 I F ( P W F S O N F O U J T B M T P J N Q M F N F O U J O H ø U I F " U B M # I V K B M
Yojana, in 8,213 water stressed Gram Panchayats
(GPs) in 80 districts of 7 States, viz., Gujarat, Haryana,
Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan
and Uttar Pradesh. The scheme marks a paradigm
shift from groundwater development to groundwater
management. Various water related works such as
check dams, farm ponds, community ponds, irrigation
open wells etc. have also been taken up under the
Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment
Guarantee Scheme. The Government’s continued
thrust on water conservation is yielding remarkable
S F T V M U T F W J E F O U J O U I F G P S N P G T J H O J m D B O U S F E V D U J P O J O
the number of water-stressed rural blocks from 2264
to 1456 (35% reduction).
53
Jal Shakti Abhiyan-I (JSA-I) was launched in 2019 in
256 water stressed districts to promote water
conservation and water resource management by
G P D V T J O H P O B D D F M F S B U F E J N Q M F N F O U B U J P O P G m W F U B S H F U
interventions, viz., water conservation and rainwater
harvesting, renovation of traditional and other water
bodies/ tanks, reuse and recharge of bore wells,
watershed development and intensive afforestation.
In 2021, “Jal Shakti Abhiyan: Catch the Rain” (JSA:
CTR) was initiated with the theme “Catch the Rain -
Where it Falls When it Falls” to cover all the blocks of
all districts (rural as well as urban areas) across the
country. One of the major interventions undertaken
under the campaign includes construction and repair
of rainwater harvesting structures including rooftop
and water harvesting structures.
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
2017 2020 2023
1. Enabling environment (%)
India
Southern Asia World
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
2017 2020 2023
2. Institutions and participation (%)
India
Southern Asia World
Figure 24: Degree of integrated water resources management implementation
6 R X U F H , : 5 0 ' D W D 3 R U W D O 8 1 ( 3 D Q G & H Q W U D O : D W H U & R P P L V V L R Q 0 L Q L V W U \ R I - D O 6 K D N W L
Years
Years
Years Years
Percentage
Percentage
Percentage
Percentage
J … n ÎÔ r ! n 0 z á Á 0 « z ( ³ z X Á Á X … z
89
The Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban
Transformation (AMRUT) focuses on the development
of basic urban infrastructure in the Mission cities in the
sectors of water supply, sewerage and septage
management, storm water drainage, green spaces
and parks and non-motorised urban transport.
AMRUT 2.0 has provisions for harvesting the
rainwater through storm water drains into the water
C P E Z X I J D I J T O P U S F D F J W J O H T F X B H F F G n V F O U
Through preparation of the ‘Aquifer Management
Plan’ cities aim to strategise groundwater recharge
augmentation by developing a roadmap for improving
rain water harvesting within city limits. Through the
IEC campaign awareness is created about practices
for water conservation like rainwater harvesting.
$ ¬ 0 D V W H U 3 O D Q I R U $ U W L À F L D O 5 H F K D U J H W R * U R X Q G Z D W H U ¬ L Q F R Q V X O W D W L R Q Z L W K 6 W D W H V 8 7 V K D V E H H Q S U H S D U H G , W L V D P D F U R O H Y H O S O D Q L Q G L F D W L Q J Y D U L R X V V W U X F W X U H V I R U W K H G L I I H U H Q W W H U U D L Q F R Q G L W L R Q V R I W K H F R X Q W U \ L Q F O X G L Q J H V W L P D W H G F R V W 7 K H 0 D V W H U 3 O D Q K D V S U R Y L V L R Q V I R U F R Q V W U X F W L R Q R I D E R X W P L O O L R Q 5 D L Q Z D W H U K D U Y H V W L Q J D Q G $ U W L À F L D O 5 H F K D U J H V W U X F W X U H V L Q W K H F R X Q W U \ W R K D U Q H V V E L O O L R Q & X E L F 0 H W U H % & 0 R I P R Q V R R Q U D L Q I D O O
0 L V V L R Q $ P U L W 6 D U R Y D U Z D V O D X Q F K H G L Q $ S U L O W R F R Q V W U X F W R U U H M X Y H Q D W H $ P U L W 6 D U R Y D U V S R Q G V L Q H D F K G L V W U L F W W R W D O O L Q J D F U R V V W K H F R X Q W U \ 7 K L V L Q L W L D W L Y H K D V P D G H V L J Q L À F D Q W S U R J U H V V L Q D G G U H V V L Q J W K H F U L W L F D O L V V X H R I Z D W H U V F D U F L W \ $ V R I - D Q X D U \ R Y H U 6 D U R Y D U V K D Y H E H H Q F R P S O H W H G H Q K D Q F L Q J V X U I D F H D Q G J U R X Q G Z D W H U D Y D L O D E L O L W \ D F U R V V Y D U L R X V U H J L R Q V
7 K H V H 6 D U R Y D U V K D Y H Q R W R Q O \
D G G U H V V H G L P P H G L D W H Z D W H U Q H H G V E X W D O V R H V W D E O L V K H G V X V W D L Q D E O H Z D W H U V R X U F H V V \ P E R O L V L Q J W K H J R Y H U Q P H Q W V F R P P L W P H Q W W R O R Q J W H U P H Q Y L U R Q P H Q W D O V X V W D L Q D E L O L W \ D Q G F R P P X Q L W \ Z H O O E H L Q J 3 K D V H , , R I 0 L V V L R Q $ P U L W 6 D U R Y D U L V H Q Y L V D J H G W R F R Q W L Q X H Z L W K D U H Q H Z H G I R F X V R Q H Q V X U L Q J Z D W H U D Y D L O D E L O L W \ Z L W K F R P P X Q L W \ S D U W L F L S D W L R Q - D Q % K D J L G D D U L D W L W V F R U H D Q G D L P V W R V W U H Q J W K H Q F O L P D W H U H V L O L H Q F H I R V W H U H F R O R J L F D O E D O D Q F H D Q G G H O L Y H U O D V W L Q J E H Q H À W V I R U I X W X U H J H Q H U D W L R Q V
WAY FORWARD
8 I J M F * O E J B I B T N B E F T J H O J m D B O U T U S J E F T V O E F S 4 % (
particularly in improving water supply and sanitation
coverage, issues related to water scarcity,
infrastructure gaps and quality of service delivery
O F F E T B U U F O U J P O / B U V S B M E J T B T U F S T Q B S U J D V M B S M Z n P P E T
and droughts, frequently disrupt water and sanitation
systems affecting the most vulnerable communities
and highlighting the need for resilient infrastructure.
These disruptions disproportionately impact women
and girls, who face unique health and safety risks due
to inadequate access to water, sanitation and hygiene
(WASH) facilities. Additionally, geographical challenges
in remote and ecologically sensitive areas along with
institutional gaps in planning and implementation
hinder sustained access to clean water.
Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana (PMKSY) is
being implemented to enhance physical access of
water on farms and expand cultivable area under
assured irrigation, improve on farm water use
F G m D J F O D Z J O U S P E V D F T V T U B J O B C M F X B U F S D P O T F S W B U J P O
practices etc. One of PMKSY’s components ‘Har Khet
Ko Pani’ is reviving irrigation potential by improvement
and restoration of water bodies by enhancing the tank
storage capacity, along with other multiple objectives
such as ground water recharge, increased availability
of drinking water, improvement of catchment of tank
commands etc.
Ensuring community participation, promoting
gender-sensitive policies and strengthening monitoring
and governance mechanisms are essential to address
these challenges. Active participation from both
individuals and communities is required, which can be
challenging in areas where traditional practices are
deeply entrenched.
Establishing comprehensive monitoring systems is
equally vital for accurately assessing progress and
J E F O U J G Z J O H H B Q T U I P V H I U I J T P G U F O F O U B J M T T J H O J m D B O U
resource and capacity requirements. Advancing
towards the targets of SDG 6 will require a holistic and
inclusive strategy that ensures sustainable water
resource management and equitable access for all.
MISSION AMRIT SAROVAR
J … n ÎÔ r ! n 0 z á Á 0 « z ( ³ z X Á Á X … z
90
07
GOAL
Affordable
and Clean
Energy
Energy security is a prerequisite for socio- economic
development. Access to energy enables people to
augment their income and productivity, enhance
access to healthcare, water and education and
improve their overall well- being. Goal 7 is aimed at
ensuring universal access to affordable, reliable and
F G m D J F O U F O F S H Z T F S W J D F T C Z & Y Q B O E J O H
infrastructure and upgrading technology to provide
D M F B O B O E F G m D J F O U F O F S H Z J T D S J U J D B M U P U I J T F O E F B W P V S
India, the world's third-largest energy consumer, is
poised for the highest energy demand growth. India's
F O F S H Z T F D V S J U Z J T B ø D S J U J D B M D P N Q P O F O U ø P G J U T
economic growth and sustainability goals. The Union
and State Governments have launched various
T D I F N F T B J N F E B U Q S P N P U J O H ø S F O F X B C M F F O F S H Z
F O I B O D J O H H S J E T U B C J M J U Z ø B O E ø S F E V D J O H D B S C P O
emissions. Guided by a “remove, target and shift”
strategy, India has steadily whittled down its fossil fuel
support, opening doors to new investments in solar
power, electric vehicles and a stronger energy grid.
ACCESS TO ENERGY
The Pradhan Mantri Sahaj Bijli Har Ghar Yojana -
Saubhagya was launched to achieve universal
I P V T F I P M E F M F D U S J m D B U J P O G P S Q S P W J E J O H F M F D U S J D J U Z
D P O O F D U J P O T U P B M M X J M M J O H V O F M F D U S J m F E I P V T F I P M E T J O
rural areas and all willing poor households in urban
B S F B T J O U I F D P V O U S Z " U P U B M P G N J M M J P O I P V T F I P M E T
of the country were provided with electricity
connection.
55
Currently the Government is further
supporting States under the ongoing Revamped
% J T U S J C V U J P O 4 F D U P S 4 D I F N F 3 % 4 4 G P S F M F D U S J m D B U J P O
P G U I P T F V O F M F D U S J m F E I P V T F I P M E T X I J D I X F S F M F G U P V U
V O E F S 4 " 6 # ) " ( : " 3 % 4 4 X B T J O J U J B U F E J O U P
support Distribution utilities i.e. DISCOMs/Power
Departments (PDs) to improve the operational
F G m D J F O D J F T B O E m O B O D J B M T V T U B J O B C J M J U Z P G U I F
distribution sector so as to provide quality and reliable
T V Q Q M Z P G Q P X F S ø
Energy Policies having a multi-fold impact are being
introduced. One such policy is Pradhan Mantri Kisan
Urja Suraksha Evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan
(PM-KUSUM) which provides energy and water
security to farmers and enhances their income,
de-dieselise the farm sector, and reduces
F O W J S P O N F O U B M Q P M M V U J P O " T P G % F D F N C F S P W F S
U I P V T B O E T P M B S Q V N Q T I B W F C F F O J O T U B M M F E
O B U J P O X J E F B T D P N Q B S F E U P U I P V T B O E T P M B S
Q V N Q T J O T U B M M F E C Z % F D F N C F S " E E J U J P O B M M Z
million grid-connected agriculture pumps have been
solarised.
0 O F P G U I F N P T U J N Q B D U G V M C F O F m U T P G U I F
scheme is the provision of assured daytime power for
irrigation. This reliable power supply allows farmers to
J S S J H B U F U I F J S m F M E T F G m D J F O U M Z B O E X J U I P V U J O U F S S V Q U J P O T
As a result farmers can optimise water usage, reduce
crop spoilage and increase yield.
J … n ÎÕ r I I … « ( n 0 z ( ! n 0 z 0 z 0 « J ç
To accelerate the growth of the biofuels sector and
B D I J F W F U I F F O I B O D F E F U I B O P M C M F O E J O H C Z U I F
Government has taken several measures. The
National Bioenergy Programme (NBP) focuses on
promoting the use of bioenergy and waste-to-energy
technologies to support clean energy solutions to
enhance energy security and support sustainable
development in India. This National policy as
B N F O E F E J O ø J O U F S B M J B ø B E W B O D F E U I F U B S H F U P G
Uttar Pradesh is pioneering a solar-powered drinking water initiative across 67,013 villages, generating 900 MW of solar energy to operate water schemes directly at the source. This eliminates electricity costs, reduces carbon emissions and ensures sustainable access to clean drinking water. The 33,157 schemes D U H S U R M H F W H G W R J H Q H U D W H P L O O L R Q F D U E R Q F U H G L W V D Q Q X D O O \ F R Q W U L E X W L Q J W R , Q G L D · V J R D O R I U H D F K L Q J Q H W ] H U R by 2070.
O In Meghalaya, over 530 Primary Health Centres (PHCs) and 305 food processing units are now solar-powered, ensuring uninterrupted services even in hard-to-reach areas. The commissioning of the 0 : * D Q R O 6 P D O O + \ G U R 3 U R M H F W L Q D Q G W K H L G H Q W L À F D W L R Q R I D G G L W L R Q D O V P D O O K \ G U R V L W H V U H Á H F W 0 H J K D O D \ D V V K L I W W R Z D U G F O H D Q H Q H U J \ D Q G M R E F U H D W L R Q L Q W K H J U H H Q V H F W R U
O , Q U R R I W R S V R O D U * X M D U D W D F F R X Q W V I R U Q H D U O \ S H U F H Q W R I , Q G L D · V W R W D O L Q V W D O O D W L R Q V % \ $ S U L O R Y H U 0.962 million customers have installed rooftop solar systems with a capacity of 5378 MW. Over the past 5 years, these systems have produced nearly 9.933 million units of electricity, resulting in saving of E L O O L R Q R Q H O H F W U L F L W \ $ G G L W L R Q D O O \ W K H + \ E U L G 5 ( 3 D U N L Q . D F F K K L V V H W W R E H F R P H $ V L D · V O D U J H V W with 37.35 GW capacity.
New renewable energy sources are transforming * O E J B T F O F S H Z M B O E T D B Q F 4 F F ' J H V S F T B O E This progress aligns with India’s commitment to B D I J F W J O H J U T ( 8 P G O P O G P T T J M G V F M F O F S H Z B T Q B S U of its ‘Panchamrit’ commitments made by the country B U $ 0 1 J O ( M B T H P X J O * O E J B T / B U J P O B M M Z Determined Contributions include the target to reduce emissions intensity of its GDP and has been F O I B O D F E U P Q F S D F O U C Z G S P N M F W F M B O E the target on cumulative electric power installed capacity from non-fossil fuel-based energy resources I B T C F F O F O I B O D F E U P C Z * O ' : U I F D P V O U S Z B E E F E ( 8 P G S F O F X B C M F F O F S H Z D B Q B D J U Z N B S L J O H B O J O D S F B T F P G O F B S M Z P W F S U I F Q S F W J P V T Z F B S T B E E J U J P O P G ( 8 * O E J B T solar power sector led the renewable energy growth, X J U I D B Q B D J U Z B E E J U J P O T T P B S J O H G S P N ( 8 J O ' : U P O F B S M Z ( 8 J O ' : B S F N B S L B C M F J O D S F B T F
57
5 I F D P V O U S Z B M T P B D I J F W F E U I F T J H O J m D B O U N J M F T U P O F P G T V S Q B T T J O H ( 8 P G J O T U B M M F E T P M B S D B Q B D J U Z U I J T year.
, F Z J O J U J B U J W F T T V D I B T U I F ø / B U J P O B M # J P & O F S H Z
Mission, National Green Hydrogen Mission, PM-KUSUM and PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana,
S F n F D U U I F O B U J P O h T D P N N J U N F O U U P B D M F B O F S B O E T F M G S F M J B O U F O F S H Z G V U V S F " T P G + B O V B S Z * O E J B T ø U P U B M O P O G P T T J M G V F M C B T F E F O F S H Z D B Q B D J U Z ø I B T S F B D I F E ø ( 8
59
* O U I F ( P W F S O N F O U M B V O D I F E U I F 1 . 4 V S Z B ( I B S . V G U # J K M J : P K B O B U I F ø X P S M E T M B S H F T U E P N F T U J D rooftop solar initiative, designed to promote rooftop solar energy adoption in residential areas. By Q S P W J E J O H m O B O D J B M J O D F O U J W F T B O E T V C T J E J F T G P S T P M B S panel installation the scheme enables households to generate their own electricity, reducing dependence on the national grid and lowering electricity bills. The J O J U J B U J W F U B S H F U T J O T U B M M B U J P O P G S P P G U P Q T P M B S J O N J M M J P O I P V T F I P M E T C Z . B S D I C Z Q S P W J E J O H V Q U P V O J U T P G G S F F F M F D U S J D J U Z F W F S Z N P O U I " T P G . B S D I P W F S N J M M J P O I P V T F I P M E T I B W F C F O F m U U F E G S P N the scheme.
Operational guidelines for the 'Model
Solar Village' scheme have also been issued, granting ` N J M M J P O U P U I F X J O O J O H W J M M B H F J O F B D I E J T U S J D U U P promote solar energy adoption and make villages self-reliant in energy.
C M F O E J O H P G F U I B O P M J O Q F U S P M U P & U I B O P M 4 V Q Q M Z : F B S & 4 : G S P N 1 V C M J D 4 F D U P S 0 J M Marketing Companies (OMCs) achieved the target of F U I B O P M C M F O E J O H J O Q F U S P M J O + V O F J F m W F N P O U I T B I F B E P G U I F U B S H F U E V S J O H & 4 :
0 W F S U I F M B T U Z F B S T F U I B O P M C M F O E J O H J O Q F U S P M C Z Public Sector OMCs has helped reduce B Q Q S P Y J N B U F M Z M B L I N F U S J D U P O O F T P G $ 0 ø emissions.
J … … ( ¨ « ! Á X ! 0 ³
J … n ÎÕ r I I … « ( n 0 z ( ! n 0 z 0 z 0 « J ç
J … n ÎÕ r I I … « ( n 0 z ( ! n 0 z 0 z 0 « J ç
Figure 25: Installed renewable electricity-generating capacity (watts per capita)
« 0 z 0 á n 0 0 z 0 « J ç ! ¨ ! X Á ç
6 R X U F H 5 H Q H Z D E O H H O H F W U L F L W \ J H Q H U D W L Q J F D S D F L W \ I U R P , 5 ( 1 $ V H O H F W U L F L W \ F D S D F L W \ G D W D E D V H
3 R S X O D W L R Q G D W D I U R P W K H 8 Q L W H G 1 D W L R Q V : R U O G 3 R S X O D W L R Q 3 U R V S H F W V
0
20
40
60
80
1 00
1 20
2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022
Wind
In dia Southern Asia World
0
20
40
60
80
1 00
1 20
1 40
1 60
1 80
2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022
Hydropower
In dia Southern Asia World
In dia Southern Asia World
0
20
40
60
80
1 00
1 20
1 40
2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022
Solar
0
50
1 00
1 50
2 00
2 50
3 00
3 50
4 00
4 50
2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022
All renewables
In dia Southern Asia World
95
Figure 26: Renewable energy share in the total installed electricity generation
0
5
10
15
20
25
30
35
400
50
100
150
200
250
300
350
400
2015-16 2016-17 2017-18 2018-19 2019-20 2020-21 2021-22 2022-23 2023-24
6 R X U F H 0 L Q L V W U \ R I 1 H Z D Q G 5 H Q H Z D E O H ( Q H U J \
Percentage
Billions of Units
2015-16 2016-17 2017-18 2018-19 2019-20 2020-21 2021-22 2022-23 2023-24
Figure 27: Installed renewable energy generating capacity in the country
(in watts per capita)
0.00
40.00
80.00
120.00
160.00
200.00250
200
150
100
50
0
6 R X U F H 0 L Q L V W U \ R I 1 H Z D Q G 5 H Q H Z D E O H ( Q H U J \
2014-15
Years
Years
Billions of Watts
Watts per capita
Installed electricity generation capacity in renewable energy (in Watt)Watts per capita (rhs)
Generation through RES including Hydro Share of RE including large hydro (%, rhs)
J … n ÎÕ r I I … « ( n 0 z ( ! n 0 z 0 z 0 « J ç
The programme also covers setting up biogas plants
for clean cooking fuel, lighting, meeting thermal and
small power needs of users which results in GHG
reduction. The programme has also improved
sanitation, women empowerment and creation of
rural employment and production of organic
enriched Bio-manure from the digested slurry from
biogas plants.
* O * O E J B M B V O D I F E U I F / B U J P O B M ( S F F O ) Z E S P H F O
Mission to make India a Global Hub for production,
V U J M J T B U J P O B O E F Y Q P S U P G ( S F F O ) Z E S P H F O B O E J U T
E F S J W B U J W F T 5 I F . J T T J P O J T E S J W J O H T J H O J m D B O U
decarbonisation of the economy and reduced
E F Q F O E F O D F P O G P T T J M G V F M J N Q P S U T B O E J T F Y Q F D U F E U P
D V U D B S C P O F N J T T J P O T C Z . . 5 C Z D S F B U F
K P C T C Z B O E B E E S F O F X B C M F F O F S H Z
D B Q B D J U Z P G ( 8 * O D F O U J W F T I B W F C F F O B X B S E F E
G P S ( S F F O ) Z E S P H F O Q S P E V D U J P O P G U P O T Q F S
annum. Projects are being piloted for the use of
hydrogen in various sectors such as steel and
U S B O T Q P S U " L F Z B D I J F W F N F O U J T U I F F T U B C M J T I N F O U P G ø
I Z E S P H F O Q S P E V D U J P O I V C T ø B D S P T T U I F D P V O U S Z
The Government is implementing the Renewable
Energy Research and Technology Development
(RETD) Programme to support R&D projects for
technology development and demonstration in
various areas of new and renewable energy such as
solar photovoltaic systems, biogas systems, waste to
energy systems, wind energy systems, hybrid
systems, storage systems, hydrogen and fuels cells,
geothermal, etc. The ultimate aim is to increase the
T I B S F P G S F O F X B C M F T J O U I F F O F S H Z N J Y J O U I F D P V O U S Z
6 O E F S U I J T Q S P H S B N N F * O E J B T m S T U I Z E S P H F O C V T U S J B M
I B T C F F O M B V O D I F E B O E I J H I F G m D J F O D Z Q F S P W T L J U F
T P M B S D F M M T P G F G m D J F O D Z B O E F G m D J F O U P G
perovskite-silicon tandem solar cells have been
developed.
! n 0 z ! … … k X z J I È 0 n
8 J U I U I F J N Q M F N F O U B U J P O P G 1 S B E I B O . B O U S J 6 K K X B M B
Yojana (PMUY) India has seen a substantial rise in the
V T B H F P G - 1 ( 1 . 6 : X B T M B V O D I F E J O U P Q S P W J E F
access to clean cooking through deposit free LPG
connection to women from poor households in order
to reduce the serious health hazards associated with
V T F P G D P O W F O U J P O B M D P P L J O H G V F M T V D I B T m S F X P P E
coal, cow dung etc. Use of LPG as cooking fuel frees
X P N F O G S P N U I F E S V E H F S Z P G D P M M F D U J O H m S F X P P E
reduces time spent on cooking and prevents
deforestation. Transition from biomass and traditional
fuels to LPG reduces the dependency on wood and
other biomass for cooking purposes, leading to a
decrease in deforestation and environmental
E F H S B E B U J P O 5 I J T C F O F m U T O P U P O M Z U I F I P V T F I P M E T
but also contributes to broader environmental
conservation efforts.
* O 4 F Q U F N C F S U I F U B S H F U U P S F M F B T F N J M M J P O
connections under PMUY was achieved. To cover the
S F N B J O J O H Q P P S I P V T F I P M E T 6 K K X B M B X B T M B V O D I F E
J O " V H V T U X J U I B U B S H F U U P S F M F B T F N J M M J P O
additional PMUY connections, which was achieved in
+ B O V B S Z 4 V C T F R V F O U M Z U I F ( P W F S O N F O U
decided to release more LPG connections under
6 K K X B M B B O E B T P G . B S D I U I F U P U B M O V N C F S P G
active domestic LPG consumers in India stands at
N J M M J P O J O D M V E J O H U I F N J M M J P O C F O F m D J B S J F T
of the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana.
¨ « … x … Á X z J 0 z 0 « J ç
0 I I X ! X 0 z ! ç
Unnat Jyoti by Affordable LEDs for All (UJALA)
set
out to revolutionise household lighting by providing
B G G P S E B C M F F O F S H Z F G m D J F O U - & % C V M C T U V C F M J H I U T B O E
fans to millions of Indian homes. UJALA has evolved
into the world’s largest zero-subsidy domestic lighting
Q S P H S B N N F F Y F N Q M J G Z J O H * O E J B h T D P N N J U N F O U U P
reducing energy consumption, enhancing
environmental awareness and fostering economic
F G m D J F O D Z 4 J O D F J U T J O D F Q U J P O J O N P S F U I B O ø
N J M M J P O - & % C V M C T ø I B W F C F F O E J T U S J C V U F E B D S P T T U I F
country
, making energy-saving technologies
accessible to households while addressing
D I B M M F O H F T T V D I B T I J H I F M F D U S J m D B U J P O D P T U T B O E
D B S C P O F N J T T J P O T ø * U T J N Q M F N F O U B U J P O B D S P T T B M M T U B U F T
has reduced annual household electricity bills and
enabled consumers to save money while improving
their quality of life. The UJALA scheme has
H F S N J O B U F E U I F T B M F P G ø C J M M J P O - & % C V M C T ø J O U I F
Indian market.
& M F D U S J D . P C J M J U Z 1 S P N P U J P O 4 D I F N F & . 1 4 X B T
launched with an aim to provide further impetus to the
green mobility and development of electric vehicle
(EV) manufacturing ecosystem in the country. This is a
fund limited scheme for faster adoption of electric
U X P X I F F M F S T F 8 B O E U I S F F X I F F M F S T F 8 U P
provide further impetus to green mobility and
J … n ÎÕ r I I … « ( n 0 z ( ! n 0 z 0 z 0 « J ç
97
á ç I … « á « (
India's energy landscape is undergoing a
transformative shift as the nation strives to meet its
B N C J U J P V T U B S H F U T V O E F S 4 % ( 8 J U I F M F D U S J D J U Z
E F N B O E Q S P K F D U F E U P J O D S F B T F G P V S U P m W F U J N F T C Z
N F U J D V M P V T Q M B O O J O H B O E T U S B U F H J D J O U F S W F O U J P O T
are essential to navigate the challenges and
opportunities in achieving this goal.
* O E J B I B T M B V O D I F E T F W F S B M n B H T I J Q J O J U J B U J W F T T V D I B T
the National Green Hydrogen Mission, PM-KUSUM
and production-linked incentive schemes to
accelerate its clean energy transition. These
programmes aim to foster a resilient and inclusive
energy ecosystem while aligning with the nation's
O F U [ F S P U B S H F U C Z 5 I F H P W F S O N F O U T Q S P B D U J W F
measures include substantial reductions in fossil fuel
T V C T J E J F T B O E J O O P W B U J W F U B Y B U J P O Q P M J D J F T U I B U
promote renewable energy projects. These efforts are
critical not only for addressing climate change but
also for stimulating economic growth and creating
employment opportunities.
The focus on emerging technologies such as green
hydrogen production, advanced battery storage
solutions and pump storage facilities underscores the
commitment to integrating variable renewable energy
sources into the grid. These innovations are pivotal for
F O T V S J O H Q P X F S B W B J M B C J M J U Z B O E F O I B O D J O H H S J E
reliability amidst increasing urbanisation and
industrialisation. However, India faces several
challenges in its pursuit of SDG 7, including the high
costs of emerging technologies, infrastructure
limitations such as land acquisition and connectivity
issues and the need for grid modernisation to
integrate variable renewable sources.
Addressing these challenges requires a holistic
B Q Q S P B D I U I B U F N Q I B T J T F T T J H O J m D B O U J O W F T U N F O U J O
renewable technologies, the development of new
skills and regulatory frameworks aligned with evolving
market dynamics. The transition towards a diverse
B O E D M F B O F S F O F S H Z N J Y T I P V M E C F E S J W F O C Z
ambitious sustainability targets while reimagining the
F O U J S F F O F S H Z M B O E T D B Q F & Y Q B O E J O H H S J E
infrastructure to accommodate growing power
demand from rapid urbanisation, investing in
advanced energy storage solutions, and developing
a skilled workforce tailored to the demands of a
T U D F O U V S Z F O F S H Z T Z T U F N B S F L F Z Q S J P S J U J F T
India's journey towards achieving SDG 7 is not just
about increasing capacity but also about transforming
its energy ecosystem into a catalyst for sustainable
growth and development. By addressing these
challenges, India can consolidate its position as a
global leader in the clean energy transition while
ensuring universal access to modern energy
T F S W J D F T 8 J U I D P O U J O V F E Q P M J D Z T V Q Q P S U J O D S F B T F E
investment and a focus on emerging technologies,
India is well-positioned to achieve its ambitious
S F O F X B C M F F O F S H Z U B S H F U T B O E D P O U S J C V U F T J H O J m D B O U M Z
to global efforts in addressing climate change.
developing an electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing
ecosystem in the country. Additionally, policies like PM
Electric Drive Revolution in Innovative Vehicle
Enhancement Scheme and PM-eBus Sewa Scheme
are supporting the deployment of e-buses and
incentivising sale of new emerging EV categories.
X z Á 0 « z Á X … z n
! … … ¨ 0 « Á X … z
Government is spearheading various international
initiatives to lead a clean energy transition. India was
one of the founding members of the International
4 P M B S " M M J B O D F J O / P W F N C F S B O E U I F ( M P C B M
# J P G V F M " M M J B O D F E V S J O H J U T ( Q S F T J E F O D Z J O
4 F Q U F N C F S * O U I F D P V O U S Z K P J O F E U I F
* O U F S O B U J P O B M & O F S H Z & G m D J F O D Z ) V C ) V C B H M P C B M
platform dedicated to fostering collaboration and
Q S P N P U J O H F O F S H Z F G m D J F O D Z X P S M E X J E F % V S J O H * O E J B
& O F S H Z 8 F F L * O E J B I P T U F E B . J O J T U F S J B M
Roundtable on Clean Cooking to discuss ways to
address challenges faced by the Global South and
share lessons from India’s Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala
Yojana (PMUY).
J … n ÎÕ r I I … « ( n 0 z ( ! n 0 z 0 z 0 « J ç
xxx 08
GOAL
Decent
Work and
Economic
Growth
Goal 8 promotes sustained economic growth, higher
levels of productivity and technological innovation.
Encouraging entrepreneurship and job creation are
crucial to this, as are effective measures to eradicate
G P S D F E M B C P V S N P E F S O T M B W F S Z B O E I V N B O U S B G m D L J O H
* U B M T P T F F L T U P Q S P U F D U M B C P V S S J H I U T B O E Q S P N P U F
policies which support decent job creation and safe
B O E T F D V S F X P S L J O H F O W J S P O N F O U T 8 J U I U I F T F U B S H F U T
in mind the goal is to achieve full and productive
F N Q M P Z N F O U B O E E F D F O U X P S L G P S B M M X P N F O B O E N F O
by 2030.
* O E J B h T F D P O P N J D U S B K F D U P S Z I B T C F F O N B S L F E C Z B
strong post-pandemic rebound followed by a phase
of steady stabilisation. This robust performance has
also been accompanied by an improvement in per
capita growth, positioning India among the fastest
growing major economies globally. This underscores
India's concerted efforts to realign its economic
G S B N F X P S L X J U I U I F U B S H F U T P G 4 % ( Q B W J O H U I F X B Z
for sustainable and inclusive development.
Key achievements include the launch of the National
4 J O H M F 8 J O E P X 4 Z T U F N B T B P O F T U P Q T I P Q G P S
J O W F T U P S T G P S U B L J O H B M M U I F S F H V M B U P S Z B Q Q S P W B M T B O E
services related to investments. The digitisation of 20
years of land and property records, the establishment
of transparency enablers in 2016 and the inception of
U I F $ F O U S B M * O T Q F D U J P O 4 Z T U F N $ * 4 J O B S F
evidence of the Government’s dedication to
streamlining compliance inspections.
The Uttar Poorva Transformative Industrialization
4 D I F N F 6 / / " 5 * J T B J N F E B U G P T U F S J O H
industrial development and generating employment in
the North-East Region. Its primary objective is to
create employment that drives overall
socio-economic development in the area. By
stimulating productive economic activity in both the
N B O V G B D U V S J O H B O E T F S W J D F T F D U P S T U I F T D I F N F T F F L T
to reach even the most challenging regions in line with
the principle of "Leave No One Behind”.
5 I F J O J U J B U J W F 4 U B S U V Q * O E J B B J N T U P T V Q Q P S U J O O P W B U J P O
and entrepreneurship by providing regulatory
support, funding opportunities and
ease-of-doing-business reforms to Indian
F O U S F Q S F O F V S T X I J M F U I F . J D S P 6 O J U T % F W F M P Q N F O U
B O E 3 F m O B O D F " H F O D Z . 6 % 3 " G B D J M J U B U F T B D D F T T U P
collateral-free micro-credit for small and micro
F O U F S Q S J T F T " E E J U J P O B M M Z V O E F S / 3 - . 3 V S B M 4 F M G
& N Q M P Z N F O U 5 S B J O J O H * O T U J U V U F T 3 4 & 5 * T B S F Q S P W J E J O H
FASTEST GROWING MAJOR
ECONOMY AND DECLINING
UNEMPLOYMENT
India has pursued a comprehensive strategy to
G P S N B M J T F J U T M B C P V S N B S L F U B O E J N Q S P W F T P D J B M
protection while simultaneously accelerating its
F D P O P N J D S F D P W F S Z % J H J U B M m O B O D J B M J O D M V T J P O
J O J U J B U J W F T E S J W F O C Z U I F + B O % I B O " B E I B B S . P C J M F
+ " . U S J O J U Z B O E U I F Q S P M J G F S B U J P O P G E J H J U B M Q B Z N F O U
T Z T U F N T I B W F T J H O J m D B O U M Z F Y Q B O E F E C B O L J O H B D D F T T
for the informal sector. Initiatives such as the Mahatma
( B O E I J / B U J P O B M 3 V S B M & N Q M P Z N F O U ( V B S B O U F F " D U
. ( / 3 & ( " I B W F Q S P W J E F E D S V D J B M F N Q M P Z N F O U
security during periods of economic uncertainty.
These measures have been
complemented by a robust rebound in per capita
growth, positioning India among the fastest growing
N B K P S F D P O P N J F T H M P C B M M Z 4 F F ' J H V S F
' V S U I F S N P S F U I F M B C P V S N B S L F U I B T F Y I J C J U F E B
steady decline in unemployment rates—falling from
J O o U P J O o B O E S F B D I J O H
J O 4 F F ' J H V S F
G S F F T L J M M U S B J O J O H D S F E J U B T T J T U B O D F B O E N F O U P S T I J Q U P
unemployed rural youth, aiming to promote
self-employment among the rural poor and enhance
their livelihood opportunities.
Numerous structural reforms have been implemented
to foster sustainable economic growth and productive
employment. These reforms have contributed to a
consistent increase in the number of patents granted,
S F n F D U J O H B T U S F O H U I F O J O H P G J O U F M M F D U V B M Q S P Q F S U Z
rights and innovation.
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101
JÎ n ÎÖ s ( 0 ! 0 z Á á … « k z ( 0 ! … z … x X ! J « … á Á R
Figure 28: Annual growth rate of real GDP per capita (%)
-8
-6
-4
-2
0
2
4
6
8
10
2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022
India Southern Asia World
Source: United Nations, Department of Economic and Social Affairs, Statistics Division
0.0
1.0
2.0
3.0
4.0
5.0
6.0
7.0
2023-24
Male Female All-India
Figure 29: Unemployment rate
Source: Periodic Labour Force Survey, NSO, Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation
Percentage of labour force
Percentage
Year
Year
2022-232021-222020-212019-202018-192017-18
102
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5 I F ( P W F S O N F O U J T S V O O J O H U I F / B U J P O B M
$ B S F F S 4 F S W J D F / $ 4 1 P S U B M X I J D I J T B P O F T U P Q
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the Government also announced the Prime Minister’s
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F N Q M P Z N F O U T L J M M J O H B O E P U I F S P Q Q P S U V O J U J F T G P S
million youth over a 5-year period. These schemes
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in all formal sectors, job creation in manufacturing,
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internships. The Union Budget 2025-2026 also aims
to create multiple employment generation
opportunities across various sectors such as
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various measures to support entrepreneurship and
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India's vibrant startup ecosystem has surged to new
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and supportive reforms have spurred a dramatic
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startups have at least one-woman director. This
burgeoning landscape, characterised by enhanced
access to credit, robust incubation programmes and
T U S F B N M J O F E S F H V M B U P S Z G S B N F X P S L T I B T O P U P O M Z
fuelled innovation but also attracted record levels of
venture capital investment, with cumulative funding
reaching billions.
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5 I F 4 L J M M * O E J B . J T T J P O J T F R V J Q Q J O H Z P V U I X J U I
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empowering millions with the tools needed for
sustainable careers.
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T L J M M J O H F D P T Z T U F N N P S F n F Y J C M F T X J G U B O E H F B S F E U P
meet the emerging demand along with emphasis on
improving the employability of candidates. It also
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implementation in 2015, more than 16 million
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% F D F N C F S J O D M V E J O H N J M M J P O X P N F O
6 O E F S U I F D V S S F O U Q I B T F P G 1 . , 7 : U I F G P D V T J T P O
T L J M M J O H J O * O E V T U S Z K P C S P M F T T V D I B T " * o % B U B
& O H J O F F S 5 F M F D P N 5 F D I O J D J B O o * P 5 % F W J D F T 4 Z T U F N T
% S P O F . B O V G B D U V S J O H B O E " T T F N C M Z 5 F D I O J D J B O
" E E J U J W F . B O V G B D U V S J O H % 1 S J O U J O H
4 L J M M * O E J B % J H J U B M ) V C Q M B U G P S N M B V O D I F E J O " V H V T U
2023 is a convergence platform facilitating access to
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S F T P V S D F T F T T F O U J B M G P S W P D B U J P O B M U S B J O J O H U I S P V H I " *
ML technology. The platform seamlessly incorporates
various government initiatives and services such as
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6 . " / ( " H S J 4 U B D L 1 - * 4 D I F N F T B O E 0 % 0 1 F U D
4 J O D F J U T J O D F Q U J P O P W F S M B L I M F B S O F S T I B W F C F F O
S F H J T U F S F E B O E M B L I B Q Q T I B W F C F F O E P X O M P B E F E
4 L J M M T " D R V J T J U J P O B O E , O P X M F E H F " X B S F O F T T G P S
- J W F M J I P P E 1 S P N P U J P O 4 " / , " - 1 X B T M B V O D I F E ø J O
2018 to strengthen the institutional mechanisms for
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N B S L F U S F M F W B O U U S B J O J O H G P S Z P V U I B D S P T T U I F D P V O U S Z
6 O M J L F P U I F S T L J M M E F W F M P Q N F O U T D I F N F T 4 " / , " - 1 J T
O P U B U S B J O J O H T Q F D J m D T D I F N F C V U G P D V T F T P O Q J M P U T
Q S P K F D U T * U B J N T U P J O D S F B T F R V B M J U Z J O T L J M M
E F W F M P Q N F O U Q S P H S B N N F T N B L J O H U I F N
N B S L F U S F M F W B O U B O E B D D F T T J C M F J O U I F D P O U F Y U P G
short-term training.
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areas and marginalised urban communities with the
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4 B O T U I B O + 4 4 J T J N Q B S U J O H T L J M M E F W F M P Q N F O U U S B J O J O H
in non-formal mode to non-literates, neo-literates,
persons with a rudimentary level of education and
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need of marginalised and ultra-poor populations
ensuring their social inclusion and last mile coverage.
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awareness among the rural masses on local issues,
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M J U F S B D Z B O E F O W J S P O N F O U J T T V F T # V J M E J O H P O U I F X P S L
P G U I F / B U J P O B M " Q Q S F O U J D F T I J Q 1 S P N P U J P O 4 D I F N F
/ " 1 4 J T Q S P N P U J O H B Q Q S F O U J D F T I J Q U S B J O J O H J O U I F
country by providing partial stipend support to the
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apprenticeship ecosystem and providing advocacy
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+ B O V B S Z N J M M J P O B Q Q S F O U J D F T I B E C F F O
successfully engaged.
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103
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* O E J B J T B M T P B M J H O J O H J U T X P S L G P S D F X J U I J O U F S O B U J P O B M
T U B O E B S E T S F J O G P S D J O H J U T W J T J P O P G C F D P N J O H U I F i 4 L J M M
$ B Q J U B M P G U I F 8 P S M E w * O E J B h T F G G P S U T J O T L J M M J O H B U
H M P C B M T U B O E B S E T B S F S F n F D U F E U I S P V H I T U S B U F H J D
J O J U J B U J W F T T V D I B T U I F * O E J B * O U F S O B U J P O B M 4 L J M M $ F O U S F T
* * 4 $ T B O E Q B S U O F S T I J Q T G B D J M J U B U F E U I S P V H I
( P W F S O N F O U U P ( P W F S O N F O U ( ( . F N P S B O E V N T P G
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* * 4 $ T B T B O O P V O D F E J O U I F ' : J O U F S J N C V E H F U
N B S L T B T J H O J m D B O U T U F Q U P X B S E T F O I B O D J O H * O E J B h T
H M P C B M T L J M M J O H G P P U Q S J O U $ V S S F O U M Z P Q F S B U J P O B M D F O U S F T
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! R z J X z J ! … z Á … È « ³ … I
INFORMAL SECTOR
EMPLOYMENT
Employment in India continues to be predominantly
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) P X F W F S S B Q J E E J H J U B M Q F O F U S B U J P O J T S F T I B Q J O H U I J T
M B O E T D B Q F 5 I F & D P O P N J D 4 V S W F Z
underscores the need for India to generate on
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U P G V M M Z F O H B H F J U T F Y Q B O E J O H X P S L G P S D F B D S J U J D B M T U F Q
toward leveraging the demographic dividend and
facilitating a structural shift from agriculture to
non-farm employment. In this evolving environment
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Bhubaneswar exemplify this initiative's early
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J O U I F m S T U Q I B T F
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D P V O U S J F T J O D M V E J O H " V T U S B M J B % F O N B S L ' S B O D F
( F S N B O Z + B Q B O 2 B U B S 6 " & B O E U I F 6 , G P S
cooperation in information exchange, standard
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partnerships not only promote the international
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the global recognition and acceptance of Indian
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5 I F ( P W F S O N F O U J T E S J W J O H T L J M M E F W F M P Q N F O U J O " S U J m D J B M * O U F M M J H F O D F " * ( S F F O & O F S H Z B O E 4 F N J D P O E V D U P S T
U P Q S F Q B S F B G V U V S F S F B E Z X P S L G P S D F " * B O E 3 P C P U J D T D P V S T F T I B W F C F F O J O U S P E V D F E B U U I F T D I P P M B O E I J H I F S
F E V D B U J P O M F W F M T B M P O H T J E F N J D S P D S F E F O U J B M T B O E / B U J P O B M 0 D D V Q B U J P O B M 4 U B O E B S E T / 0 4 G V U V S J T U J D
R V B M J m D B U J P O T J O B S F B T T V D I B T & 7 N B O V G B D U V S J O H " * . - E S P O F U F D I O P M P H Z B O E I F B M U I U F D I I B W F C F F O
E F W F M P Q F E * O R V B M J m D B U J P O T T U B O E B M P O F / 0 4 B O E N J D S P D S F E F O U J B M T X F S F B Q Q S P W F E
X I J M F P V U E B U F E R V B M J m D B U J P O T X F S F B S D I J W F E " T P G . B S D I B D U J W F R V B M J m D B U J P O T F Y J T U
J O D M V E J O H S F M B U F E U P G V U V S F T L J M M T
5 I F H S F F O F O F S H Z T F D U P S J T Q S P K F D U F E U P T F F B J O D S F B T F J O F N Q M P Z N F O U C Z 5 I F ( S F F O & O F S H Z 4 L J M M
$ B Q B D J U Z # V J M E J O H ' S B N F X P S L T V Q Q P S U T U I F U S B O T J U J P O U P B T V T U B J O B C M F F O F S H Z F D P O P N Z * U G P D V T F T P O
B E W B O D F N F O U T J O S F O F X B C M F U F D I O P M P H J F T T P M B S X J O E I Z E S P Q P X F S C J P F O F S H Z H F P U I F S N B M F O F S H Z T U P S B H F
M J U I J V N J P O T P M J E T U B U F C B U U F S J F T H S F F O I Z E S P H F O B O E T N B S U H S J E T " E W B O D F E . F U F S J O H * O G S B T U S V D U V S F
N J D S P H S J E T B O E & 7 J O G S B T U S V D U V S F 5 I F G S B N F X P S L Q S P N P U F T C M F O E F E M F B S O J O H B O E T F D U P S T Q F D J m D T L J M M J O H
Q M B O T B D S P T T W B S J P V T F O F S H Z T F D U P S T , F Z J O J U J B U J W F T J O D M V E F 5 S B J O J O H P G 5 S B J O F S T 5 P 5 5 S B J O J O H P G " T T F T T P S T
5 P " J O E V T U S Z B D B E F N J B D P M M B C P S B U J P O B Q Q S F O U J D F T I J Q T B O E T U B O E B S E J T F E D F S U J m D B U J P O Q S P D F T T F T
complemented by digital- driven roles, such as those
enabled by UPI payments, gig platforms and small
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through digital intermediation.
Recent statistics reveal that the informal sector
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5 I F 1 F S J P E J D - B C P V S ' P S D F 4 V S W F Z 1 - ' 4
J O E J D B U F T U I B U B C P V U P G X P N F O
employed in the non-agriculture sector are engaged
in informal enterprises.
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JÎ n ÎÖ s ( 0 ! 0 z Á á … « k z ( 0 ! … z … x X ! J « … á Á R
Various policy interventions of the Government are
aimed at addressing the challenges associated with
J O G P S N B M J U Z 5 I F & 4 I S B N 1 P S U B M B D U T B T B P O F T U P Q
T P M V U J P O Q S P W J E J O H F B T Z B D D F T T U P 6 O J P O B O E 4 U B U F
Government welfare schemes for over 300 million
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N P E V M F ø I B T C F F O ø E F W F M P Q F E P O F 4 I S B N ø U P G B D J M J U B U F
W F S J m D B U J P O P G 1 M B U G P S N 8 P S L F S T S F H J T U F S F E P O U I F
Q P S U B M U I S P V H I B H H S F H B U P S T 1 M B U G P S N " H H S F H B U P S T B S F
C F J O H F O D P V S B H F E U P S F H J T U F S P O F 4 I S B N Q P S U B M B O E
B M T P S F H J T U F S U I F Q M B U G P S N X P S L F S T F O H B H F E X J U I U I F N
5 I F T F T U F Q T B S F C F J O H U B L F O J O P S E F S U P X P S L U P X B S E T
extending full social security coverage to gig and
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F Y U F O T J W F T U B L F I P M E F S D P O T V M U B U J P O T X J U I B H H S F H B U P S T
L O P X M F E H F Q B S U O F S T Q M B U G P S N X P S L F S P S H B O J T B U J P O T
B O E 4 U B U F ( P W F S O N F O U T 6 5 T U P F O T V S F B
D P N Q S F I F O T J W F V O E F S T U B O E J O H P G U I F 4 P D J B M 4 F D V S J U Z
Code, 2020. These consultations also aimed to
develop collaborative approaches for a social
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X P S L F S T " D P M M B C P S B U J W F T U V E Z J T C F J O H V O E F S U B L F O
X J U I U I F * O U F S O B U J P O B M - B C P V S 0 S H B O J [ B U J P O * - 0 U P
comprehensively assess various factors related to
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implementing a social security scheme for platform
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X P S L F S T U I F M B U F T U C V E H F U J O D M V E F T F Y U F O E J O H
I F B M U I D B S F C F O F m U T V O E F S 1 . + B O " S P H Z B : P K B O B U P
U I F Q M B U G P S N X P S L F S T B O E J T Q S P K F D U F E U P C F O F m U
B Q Q S P Y J N B U F M Z N J M M J P O H J H X P S L F S T
SUPPORTING MICRO,
SMALL AND MEDIUM
0 z Á 0 « ¨ « X ³ 0 ³ h x ³ x 0i
8 J U I N P S F U I B O N J M M J P O . J D S P 4 N B M M B O E . F E J V N
& O U F S Q S J T F T . 4 . & J O U I F D P V O U S Z U I F . 4 . & T F D U P S
has emerged as a highly vibrant and dynamic sector
of the Indian economy, fostering entrepreneurship
and generating employment opportunities at
comparatively lower capital cost, next only to
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D P N Q M F N F O U J O H M B S H F J O E V T U S J F T B O E T J H O J m D B O U M Z
contributing to the country’s inclusive industrial
growth. These enterprises are continually expanding
their presence across various sectors of the economy
and offering a diverse array of products and services
U P N F F U C P U I E P N F T U J D B O E J O U F S O B U J P O B M N B S L F U
demands.
The Government has been focusing on formalisation
of these enterprises to provide an identity to the
. 4 . & F O U F S Q S J T F T B O E F B T F P G E P J O H C V T J O F T T " T P G
% F D F N C F S B T N B O Z B T N J M M J P O ø . 4 . & T X J U I
B O F N Q M P Z N F O U P G N J M M J P O B S F S F H J T U F S F E P O
6 E Z B N 3 F H J T U S B U J P O 1 P S U B M B O E 6 E Z B N " T T J T U 1 M B U G P S N
6 " 1 ø 5 I F $ S F E J U ( V B S B O U F F 4 D I F N F G P S . J D S P B O E
4 N B M M & O U F S Q S J T F T J T P O F P G U I F n B H T I J Q T D I F N F T P G
Q S P W J E J O H D P M M B U F S B M G S F F M P B O T U P . J D S P B O E 4 N B M M
Enterprises. This scheme was revamped in the year
2023, wherein ceiling limit of guarantee coverage was
Figure 30: Percentage of workers in informal sector among total workers
engaged in non-agriculture sector
60
65
70
75
80
85
2017-18 2018-19 2019-20 2020-21 2021-22 2022-23
Percentage
Rural Urban Total
Source: Periodic Labour Force Survey, NSO, Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation
Year
JÎ n ÎÖ s ( 0 ! 0 z Á á … « k z ( 0 ! … z … x X ! J « … á Á R
105
BOOSTING INNOVATION
z ( R « z 0 ³ ³ X z J
INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY
« X J R Á ³
5 I F 8 P S M E * O U F M M F D U V B M 1 S P Q F S U Z * O E J D B U P S T S F Q P S U
I J H I M J H I U T T J H O J m D B O U T U S J E F T C Z * O E J B J O G P T U F S J O H
J O O P W B U J P O U I S P V H I J O U F M M F D U V B M Q S P Q F S U Z * 1 J O J U J B U J W F T
India is in the top 10 across the three main intellectual
Q S P Q F S U Z * 1 S J H I U T J O D M V E F E J O U I F 8 * 1 * X J U I C P U I
patent and industrial design applications more than
E P V C M J O H C F U X F F O B O E B O E U S B E F N B S L
B Q Q M J D B U J P O T J O D S F B T J O H C Z ' V S U I F S B N P O H U I F
top 20 origins India recorded the fastest growth in
Q B U F O U B Q Q M J D B U J P O T B O E J O E V T U S J B M E F T J H O
B Q Q M J D B U J P O T J O N B S L J O H U I F m G U I
consecutive year of double-digit growth. Moving up
by one spot, India is in 10th position in industrial
E F T J H O B Q Q M J D B U J P O T J O
5 I F 1 B U F O U 0 G m D F I B T H S B O U F E Q B U F O U T J O ' :
7 B S J P V T T U F Q T U B L F O C Z U I F ( P W F S O N F O U U P
further strengthen the Intellectual Property Rights
* 1 3 F D P T Z T U F N J O * O E J B I B W F J O D M V E F E N P E F S O J T B U J P O
P G * 1 P G m D F T V T J O H * 5 F O B C M F E B O E B E W B O D F E
U F D I O P M P H J F T T P U I B U B M M E P D V N F O U T m M F E C F G P S F U I F
1 B U F O U 0 G m D F B S F D P N Q M F U F M Z E J H J U J T F E B O E B S F N B E F
B W B J M B C M F P O M J O F G P S Q S P D F F E J O H T M F B E J O H U P m O B M
E J T Q P T B M " T B S F T V M U B Q Q M J D B O U T O F F E O P U W J T J U 1 B U F O U
B O E 5 S B E F . B S L T 0 G m D F T G P S m M J O H Q S P D F T T J O H B O E
H F U U J O H 1 B U F O U B O E 5 S B E F N B S L H S B O U S F H J T U S B U J P O
D F S U J m D B U F T 0 X J O H U P G F F D P O D F T T J P O T J O Q B U F O U T
B Q Q M J D B U J P O T U I F S F I B T C F F O B ø T J H O J m D B O U J O D S F B T F J O
1 B U F O U m M J O H T C Z 4 U B S U V Q T . 4 . & T B O E & E V D B U J P O B M
* O T U J U V U F T 4 F F ' J H V S F
enhanced from `20 million to `50 million; the annual
guarantee fees reduced; and threshold limit for waiver
P G M F H B M B D U J P O X B T J O D S F B T F E ø
Prime Minister’s Employment Generation Programme
1 . & ( 1 ø J T Q S P W J E J O H F N Q M P Z N F O U P Q Q P S U V O J U J F T
through establishment of micro-enterprises in the
O P O G B S N T F D U P S C Z Q S P W J E J O H . B S H J O . P O F Z T V C T J E Z
U P C F O F m D J B S J F T B W B J M J O H M P B O G S P N C B O L T G P S T F U U J O H V Q
O F X F O U F S Q S J T F T ø * U B J N T U P Q S P W J E F F N Q M P Z N F O U
P Q Q P S U V O J U J F T U P U S B E J U J P O B M B S U J T B O T S V S B M B O E V S C B O
V O F N Q M P Z F E Z P V U I B U U I F J S E P P S T U F Q 4 J O D F J O D F Q U J P O
P G U I F T D I F N F G S P N ' : N P S F U I B O
micro enterprises have been assisted across the
country, providing estimated employment to 8 million
persons.
* O P S E F S U P G B D J M J U B U F . 4 . & T O B U J P O B M B O E H M P C B M S F B D I
U I F . 4 . & $ I B N Q J P O T 4 D I F N F J T Q M B Z J O H B D S V D J B M
role in selecting clusters and enterprises and
modernising their processes, reducing wastage and
T I B S Q F O J O H C V T J O F T T D P N Q F U J U J W F O F T T 5 I F 4 D I F N F
P G G F S T . 4 . & T D F S U J m D B U J P O T B U U I S F F M F W F M T # S P O [ F
4 J M W F S B O E ( P M E B M P O H U I S F F E J N F O T J P O T
A . 4 . & 4 V T U B J O B C M F ; & % A . 4 . & $ P N Q F U J U J W F
- & " / B O E A . 4 . & * O O P W B U J W F * O D V C B U J P O % F T J H O
* 1 3 ' J O B O D J B M B T T J T U B O D F G P S N V M U J Q M F U F T U J O H B O E
D F S U J m D B U J P O T J T B M T P C F J O H J O U S P E V D F E U P Q S P W J E F
D P N Q S F I F O T J W F T V Q Q P S U U P . 4 . & T
- B V O D I F E X J U I U I F W J T J P O P G ý ' V O E J O H U I F 6 O G V O E F E ý
1 S B E I B O . B O U S J . V E S B : P K B O B 1 . . : F Y U F O E T
collateral-free loans to small enterprises that face
T J H O J m D B O U D I B M M F O H F T J O B D D F T T J O H G P S N B M J O T U J U V U J P O B M
D S F E J U 4 J O D F U S J M M J P O X P S U I P G . 6 % 3 "
loans have been sanctioned to marginalised
D P N N V O J U J F T J O D M V E J O H 4 D I F E V M F E $ B T U F T 4 D I F E V M F E
5 S J C F T B O E ø 0 # $ T
/ B U J P O B M 4 $ 4 5 ) V C J T Q S P N P U J O H F O U S F Q S F O F V S T I J Q B N P O H T U U I F 4 D I F E V M F E $ B T U F T B O E 4 D I F E V M F E 5 S J C F T 5 I J T I B T Q P T J U J W F M Z J N Q B D U F E U B S H F U C F O F m D J B S J F T C Z Q S P W J E J O H Q S P G F T T J P O B M T V Q Q P S U J O V Q H S B E J O H U I F J S T L J M M T G B D J M J U B U J O H N B S L F U M J O L B H F T B O E I P M E J O H T V Q Q P S U X I J D I S F T V M U F E J O B G P M E J O D S F B T F J O Q V C M J D Q S P D V S F N F O U G S P N 4 $ 4 5 . 4 & T J O U F S N T P G W B M V F J F N J M M J P O J O U P C J M M J P O B Q Q S P Y J O B T
S F Q P S U F E P O U I F . 4 . & 4 B N C B O E I Q P S U B M
¨ « … x … Á X … z … I x ³ x 0 x … z J ³ ! R 0 ( È n 0 ( ! ³ Á 0 ³
z ( ³ ! R 0 ( È n 0 ( Á « X 0 ³
JÎ n ÎÖ s ( 0 ! 0 z Á á … « k z ( 0 ! … z … x X ! J « … á Á R
106
/ B U J P O B M * O U F M M F D U V B M 1 S P Q F S U Z " X B S F O F T T . J T T J P O
/ * 1 " . X B T M B V O D I F E J O % F D F N C F S U P J N Q B S U * 1
awareness and basic training in educational institutes
B D S P T T U I F D P V O U S Z B O E B T B D P O T F R V F O D F N P S F U I B O
2 million persons have been trained about IPRs so far.
" M T P * 1 B X B S E T I B W F C F F O D P O G F S S F E F W F S Z Z F B S U P
recognise and reward the top achievers and many
among them were also invited as special guests to
( P W F S O N F O U P G * O E J B J O U I F 3 F Q V C M J D % B Z $ F M F C S B U J P O
U P S F D P H O J T F U I F J S F G G P S U T " E F E J D B U F E
i 4 U B S U 6 Q T * O U F M M F D U V B M 1 S P Q F S U Z 1 S P U F D U J P O 4 * 1 1
4 D I F N F w X B T B M T P J O U S P E V D F E J O U P T V Q Q P S U
4 U B S U V Q T J O T F D V S J O H U I F J S * 1 B O E F O D P V S B H J O H
innovation and creativity among them. The scheme
I B T C F F O G B D J M J U B U J O H T U B S U V Q T J O m M J O H B O E Q S P D F T T J O H
P G U I F J S Q B U F O U E F T J H O P S U S B E F N B S L B Q Q M J D B U J P O
U I S P V H I U I F B T T J T U B O D F P G * 1 ' B D J M J U B U P S T X I P T F G F F J T
C P S O F C Z U I F 0 G m D F P G U I F $ P O U S P M M F S ( F O F S B M P G
1 B U F O U T % F T J H O T B O E 5 S B E F N B S L 4 J O D F U I F
implementation of the scheme there has been a
T J H O J m D B O U J O D S F B T F J O * 1 B Q Q M J D B U J P O T C Z T U B S U V Q T ø
Over the past few years the country has seen an
V O Q S F D F E F O U F E T V S H F J O G P S N B M . 4 . & S F H J T U S B U J P O T
U I S P V H I E J H J U B M Q M B U G P S N T M J L F U I F 6 E Z B N 1 P S U B M 4 F F
' J H V S F B O E 6 E Z B N " T T J T U 1 M B U G P S N N B S L J O H B
T J H O J m D B O U T I J G U U P X B S E T G P S N B M J T B U J P O B O E F B T F P G
doing business. This growth has been matched by a
T V C T U B O U J B M S J T F J O D S F E J U n P X 4 F F ' J H V S F U P U I F
T F D U P S S F n F D U J O H C P U I J N Q S P W F E B D D F T T U P m O B O D F
B O E J O D S F B T J O H J O T U J U V U J P O B M D P O m E F O D F J O . 4 . & T
4 J N V M U B O F P V T M Z * O E J B T T U B S U V Q M B O E T D B Q F I B T
V O E F S H P O F B S F N B S L B C M F U S B O T G P S N B U J P O X J U I
U I P V T B O E T P G W F O U V S F T C F J O H P G m D J B M M Z S F D P H O J T F E
V O E F S U I F 4 U B S U V Q * O E J B J O J U J B U J W F 4 F F ' J H V S F
underscoring the success of enabling policies,
entrepreneurial energy and a supportive innovation
ecosystem. Collectively, these trends highlight how
targeted reforms, digital infrastructure and grassroots
enterprise are driving inclusive economic
development, especially in non-metropolitan and
underserved regions.
Figure 31: Total number of patents issued
0
10000
20000
30000
40000
50000
60000
70000
80000
90000
100000
2015-16 2016-17 2017-18 2018-19 2019-20 2020-21 2021-22 2022-23 2023-24
Source: Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry
Chemical Pharmaceuticals
Polymer Science & Technology Computer/ Electronics
Communication Electrical
Physics Bio-Medical
Mechanical Other fields
Year
Number of patents issued
JÎ n ÎÖ s ( 0 ! 0 z Á á … « k z ( 0 ! … z … x X ! J « … á Á R
Figure 32: Number of MSME registered under the online
Udyam registration Portal(including Udyam Assist Platform)
0
5 Millions
10 Millions
15 Millions
20 Millions
25 Millions
30 Millions
35 Millions
40 Millions
45 Millions
2020-21
(01.07.2020
to 31.03.2021)
2021-22
(01.04.2021
to 31.03.2022)
2022-23
(01.04.2022
to 31.03.2023)
2023-24
(01.04.2023
to 31.03.2024)
Total
Number of MSME
0
5000
10000
15000
20000
25000
2015-16 2016-17 2017-18 2018-19 2019-20 2020-21 2021-22 2022-23
Figure 34: Number of start-ups recognized under Start-up India (in number)
0
5000
10000
15000
20000
25000
30000
35000
40000
2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023
Source: Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (8.3.3 & 8.3.4) and
Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry (8.3.5)
) L J X U H 2 X W V W D Q G L Q J & U H G L W W R 0 6 0 ( L Q i E L O O L R Q V
Billions
Number of start-ups recognized under Start-up India
Year
JÎ n ÎÖ s ( 0 ! 0 z Á á … « k z ( 0 ! … z … x X ! J « … á Á R
108
SUSTAINABLE TOURISM
* O E J B T U P V S J T N T F D U P S S J D I J O ø I F S J U B H F D V M U V S F B O E
E J W F S T J U Z J T B L F Z E S J W F S P G ø F D P O P N J D H S P X U I 5 I F
U P V S J T N T F D U P S D S F B U F E ø N J M M J P O K P C T J O U I F m O B O D J B M
Z F B S B O E J U T D P O U S J C V U J P O U P ( % 1 S F H B J O F E U I F
Q S F Q B O E F N J D M F W F M P G J O U I F T B N F U J N F Q F S J P E
66
3 F D P H O J T J O H J U T Q P U F O U J B M G P S ø F N Q M P Z N F O U M F E
development the Government has decided to allocate
S F T P V S D F T U P F O I B O D F ø J O G S B T U S V D U V S F T L J M M
E F W F M P Q N F O U B O E U S B W F M G B D J M J U B U J P O ø 1 S P H S B N N F T T V D I
B T ) V O B S 4 F 3 P [ H B S 5 B L & O U S F Q S F O F V S T I J Q
1 S P H S B N N F 4 L J M M 5 F T U J O H $ F S U J m D B U J P O B O E 5 P V S J T N
" X B S F O F T T 1 S P H S B N N F B S F C F J O H D P O E V D U F E U I S P V H I
the government and empanelled private institute
V O E F S U I F A $ B Q B D J U Z # V J M E J O H G P S 4 F S W J D F 1 S P W J E F S T
$ # 4 1 4 D I F N F U P U S B J O B O E V Q H S B E F Q S P G F T T J P O B M T U P
Q S P W J E F C F U U F S T F S W J D F T U B O E B S E T ' V S U I F S * O D S F E J C M F
* O E J B 5 P V S J T U ' B D J M J U B U P S $ F S U J m D B U J P O 1 S P H S B N N F I B T
created an online learning platform with the objective
of creating a pool of well-trained professional tourist
facilitators across the country to support tourists.
WAY FORWARD
* O E J B T Q S P H S F T T U P X B S E 4 V T U B J O B C M F % F W F M P Q N F O U
Goal 8 which focuses on promoting sustained,
inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full and
Q S P E V D U J W F F N Q M P Z N F O U B O E E F D F O U X P S L G P S B M M
S F n F D U T C P U I T J H O J m D B O U B E W B O D F N F O U T B O E Q F S T J T U F O U
D I B M M F O H F T 8 J U I U I F M B S H F T U Q P Q V M B U J P O P G Z P V O H
people globally and a median age of 28, India has a
V O J R V F P Q Q P S U V O J U Z U P M F W F S B H F J U T E F N P H S B Q I J D
E J W J E F O E 8 J U I P G U I F Q P Q V M B U J P O V O E F S U I F B H F P G
35, India holds a demographic advantage; and is
G P S N V M B U J O H Q S P H S B N N F T U P F R V J Q Q F P Q M F X J U I
J O E V T U S Z S F M F W B O U T L J M M T O F F E F E J O B N P E F S O F D P O P N Z
" E E J U J P O B M M Z U I F Q S P Q P S U J P O P G T L J M M F E X P S L F S T I B T
J N Q S P W F E T J H O J m D B O U M Z G S P N U P P W F S U I F Q B T U
decade. Recognising the pivotal role of human capital
in driving economic growth and innovation, the
Government has actively implemented measures to
F O I B O D F T L J M M J O H B O E F N Q M P Z N F O U P Q Q P S U V O J U J F T 5 I F T F
efforts are supported by improved intellectual property
G S B N F X P S L T Q P M J D Z S F G P S N T B O E J O J U J B U J W F T F N Q P X F S J O H
T U B S U V Q T . 4 . & T B O E B D B E F N J D J O T U J U V U J P O T
India’s employment challenge lies not only in job
D S F B U J P O C V U B M T P J O F O I B O D J O H U I F P W F S B M M R V B M J U Z B O E
F N Q M P Z B C J M J U Z P G J U T X P S L G P S D F 5 I F & D P O P N J D 4 V S W F Z
F N Q I B T J T F T U I B U M B C P V S B O E U F D I O P M P H Z
must complement each other to ensure sustainable
H S P X U I ) J T U P S Z E F N P O T U S B U F T U I B U B V U P N B U J P O X I F O
carefully integrated with institutional support has
historically increased employment-to-population ratios.
* O U I J T D P O U F Y U U I F G V U V S F P G X P S L J O * O E J B S F W P M W F T
B S P V O E A " V H N F O U F E * O U F M M J H F O D F X I F S F I V N B O
capabilities are enhanced by machine integration
rather than replaced. Leveraging its young and
tech-savvy population India has the potential to create
B X P S L G P S D F U I B U V U J M J T F T " * U P B V H N F O U Q S P E V D U J W J U Z B O E
F G m D J F O D Z B D S P T T T F D U P S T ) P X F W F S C V J M E J O H F O B C M J O H
J O T U J U V U J P O T U P T V Q Q P S U U I J T U S B O T J U J P O S F R V J S F T N P C J M J T J O H
T V C T U B O U J B M J O U F M M F D U V B M B O E m O B O D J B M S F T P V S D F T X I J D I J T
a time-intensive process.
% F T Q J U F U I F T F B E W B O D F N F O U T X B H F E J T Q B S J U J F T Q F S T J T U
across sectors, particularly in the informal economy. To
address these vulnerabilities the focus continues to be
P O F O T V S J O H U I B U T L J M M J O H Q S P H S B N T H P C F Z P O E
D F S U J m D B U J P O T B O E G P D V T P O F R V J Q Q J O H J O E J W J E V B M T X J U I
practical expertise tailored to dynamic industry
demands and self-employment opportunities.
' F N B M F F N Q M P Z N F O U B O E X P N F O T D P O U S J C V U J P O U P U I F
X P S L G P S D F X J M M C F D S J U J D B M ' F N B M F X P S L G P S D F
participation has seen a positive trend over the past six
years with increased economic engagement and
declining unemployment rates among women. The
8 P S L F S 1 P Q V M B U J P O 3 B U J P 8 1 3 G P S X P N F O B H F E
Z F B S T B O E B C P W F S P T F G S P N J O U P
J O X I J M F U I F J S - B C P S ' P S D F 1 B S U J D J Q B U J P O 3 B U F
- ' 1 3 J O D S F B T F E G S P N U P ' F N B M F
V O F N Q M P Z N F O U E S P Q Q F E T J H O J m D B O U M Z G S P N U P
S F n F D U J O H H S F B U F S J O D M V T J P O J O F D P O P N J D
B D U J W J U J F T & O T V S J O H G V S U I F S F R V J U B C M F Q B S U J D J Q B U J P O J O U I F
G V U V S F X P S L G P S D F C Z C P U I X P N F O B O E N F O X J M M C F
D S J U J D B M " T * O E J B B E W B O D F T J O " * B O E E J H J U B M
transformation, the Government is focusing on
leveraging women’s participation in digital employment
platforms, enhancing women’s digital literacy and
F Y Q B O E J O H " * E S J W F O T L J M M J O H Q S P H S B N N F T G P S X P N F O
& O T V S J O H T V T U B J O B C M F X P S L G P S D F Q B S U J D J Q B U J P O G P S
X P N F O B M T P S F R V J S F T B E E S F T T J O H D I B M M F O H F T T V D I B T
X B H F E J T Q B S J U J F T B O E B D D F T T J O F R V B M J U J F T F G G F D U J W F M Z # Z
O V S U V S J O H B E Z O B N J D X P S L G P S D F F R V J Q Q F E X J U I
F N Q M P Z B C M F T L J M M T U I S P V H I U B S H F U F E J O U F S W F O U J P O T * O E J B
can harness its demographic dividend to drive
inclusive economic growth while preparing for the
evolving demands of a globalised economy powered
by technology integration.
JÎ n ÎÖ s ( 0 ! 0 z Á á … « k z ( 0 ! … z … x X ! J « … á Á R
09
GOAL
Industry,
Innovation
and
Infrastructure
SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure)
encompasses essential elements for economic
growth and sustainable development. It focuses on
building quality, reliable, sustainable and resilient
infrastructure that supports economic development
and human well-being. Additionally, it aims to promote
inclusive and sustainable industrialisation and foster
innovation among various targets. Investment in
infrastructure sectors such as transport, irrigation,
energy and others is crucial to ensure the sustainable
development of many countries.
With a strong focus on enhancing industrial
capabilities, creating world-class infrastructure and
fostering innovation, India’s signature “Make in
India” initiative aims to position India as a key player
in the global economy. Supported by major
programmes like Production Linked Incentive (PLI)
Schemes, PM Gati Shakti, the National Logistics
Policy and comprehensive tax reforms like the
Goods and Services Tax (GST), "Make in India"
continues to drive economic growth, job creation
and global competitiveness.
In India, the enhanced infrastructure and new
initiatives such as the Dedicated Freight Corridor and
various Industrial Corridors have played a pivotal
role in fostering sustainable industrialisation.
Additionally, efforts directed towards innovation have
Q S P Q F M M F E T J H O J m D B O U Q S P H S F T T J O U I F D P V O U S Z T
ranking on the Global Innovation Index from 48
th
in
2020 to 39
th
in 2024.
67
The Government has made considerable strides in
creating an enabling environment for startups through
landmark reforms aimed at improving the Ease of
Doing Business. Over 40,000 compliances have been
T J N Q M J m F E P S S F N P W F E B O E O V N F S P V T M B X T I B W F C F F O
decriminalised to allow businesses to operate more
freely and fairly. These measures are complemented
by the Fund of Funds for Startups (FFS) which
S F T F S W F T B T J H O J m D B O U Q P S U J P O P G J U T S F T P V S D F T G P S 4 F F E
funding for small startups and supports deep-tech
innovation with approval of initiatives, like the
government's Second Fund of Funds for Startups. By
mobilising patient capital the Government is seeking
to foster indigenous technology solutions that
address national priorities and position India as a
global innovation leader.
PROMOTING
MANUFACTURING AND
INDUSTRY
4 J H O J m D B O U Q S P H S F T T I B T C F F O N B E F J O
manufacturing, investments and job creation,
increasing the share of real manufacturing value
added per capita. As seen in Figure 35,
manufacturing, while steadily recovering, remains
slightly below its pre-pandemic trajectory. These
include improvements in ease of doing business,
E S J W F O C Z E J H J U J T B U J P O B O E Q S P D F E V S B M T J N Q M J m D B U J P O T
and India's rise as the world's second-largest mobile
phone manufacturer. These successes can be
credited to zero tolerance for corruption and targeted
sectoral efforts for attracting both domestic and
international investments. Looking ahead, further
growth in the manufacturing sector is expected which
will create millions of jobs and expand manufacturing
contribution to the economy.
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India’s manufacturing sector has gained momentum
U I S P V H I n B H T I J Q Q S P H S B N N F T M J L F . B L F J O * O E J B B O E
the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme,
targeting sectors such as electronics, textiles,
automobiles and pharmaceuticals. Today, ‘Make in
India’ initiative is transforming India into a global hub
for design and manufacturing. Its core objectives
were to facilitate investment, encourage innovation
and develop world-class infrastructure. The
initiative’s focus on developing a robust
manufacturing sector promises to elevate India's
economic trajectory and generate employment
opportunities for its vast young workforce.
Now with the "Make in India 2.0" phase encompassing
27 sectors, the programme continues to drive forward
X J U I T J H O J m D B O U B D I J F W F N F O U T B O E S F O F X F E W J H P V S
reinforcing India's position as a major player in the
global manufacturing landscape.
Keeping in view India's vision of becoming
'Atmanirbhar', Production Linked Incentive (PLI)
Schemes for 14 key sectors are under implementation
to enhance India's manufacturing capabilities and
exports. By targeting industries like electronics,
textiles, pharmaceuticals and automobiles, the
J O J U J B U J W F P G G F S T m O B O D J B M J O D F O U J W F T U J F E E J S F D U M Z U P
measurable outcomes such as higher production and
incremental sales. Actual investment of around US$
18.72 billion has been reported till November 2024.
These investments have already led to a remarkable
boost in production and sales, amounting to around
US$ 162.84 billion, while directly and indirectly
generating employment of over 1.15 million jobs.
68
ENHANCING
INFRASTRUCTURE
India's infrastructure development has advanced
T J H O J m D B O U M Z F T Q F D J B M M Z J O U F S N T P G J N Q S P W J O H
transportation connectivity. Rural connectivity
increased from 47.38% in 2017–18 to 99.70% in
2023–24 as a result of programmes like the Pradhan
Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY), which has linked
almost all targeted habitations with all-weather roads.
The PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan has been
implemented at Centre, State and district level to
assess last-mile connectivity gaps and ensure
seamless movement of people and goods. It is a
transformative approach for planning multimodal
infrastructure connectivity to economic nodes,
thereby bringing logistics efficiency. Till date, 44
Ministries (8 Infrastructure, 16 Social, 15 Economic,
5 other) have been boarded and 1652 data layers
14.50
15.00
15.50
16.00
16.50
17.00
17.50
0
2
4
6
8
10
12
14
16
18
20
MVA/population at constant (2011-12) prices (` Billions per million inhabitants)
MVA as proportion of GDP at constant price (rhs)
2015-16 2016-17 2017-18 2018-19 2019-20 2020-21 2021-22 2022-23 2023-24
Figure 35: Manufacturing Value Added (MVA) as a
proportion of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and per capita
Source: National Accounts Division, NSO, MoSPI
Year
Billions per million inhabitants
MVA as share (%) of GDP
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112
This programme encourages development of infrastructure for the leather and footwear sector, addresses
H Q Y L U R Q P H Q W D O F R Q F H U Q V V S H F L À F W R W K H I R R W Z H D U D Q G O H D W K H U V H F W R U I D F L O L W D W H V D G G L W L R Q D O L Q Y H V W P H Q W V
employment generation and increase in production. Till date 546 applications have been approved under
Integrated Development of Leather Sector Scheme (IDLS) assistance of Rs 370.38 Crore. 4 projects under
Sustainable Technology Environment Protection (STEP) sub-scheme are approved for setting up of
& R P P R Q ( I Á X H Q W 7 U H D W P H Q W 3 O D Q V & ( 7 3 7 K H V F K H P H S U R Y L G H V H P S O R \ P H Q W W R P L O O L R Q S H R S O H R X W
of which 40% are women and is also helpful in strengthening the Micro and Small units.
70
INDIAN FOOTWEAR AND LEATHER
DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME
(718 Ministry data layers and 934 State data layers)
have been uploaded on the GIS-data based portal
69
.
The initiative has helped in addressing
implementation challenges and environmental issues
at the planning stage. Gaps in first and last mile
connectivity are being identified along with planning
of projects for taking up by the relevant authorities.
The social sector Ministries that have been boarded
on are planning their projects such as schools,
health-care centres, anganwadi etc., on the initiative’s
portal, which is benefitting the vulnerable population
of the country. And based on PM Gati Shakti area
development approach principles the District Master
Plan (DMP) Portal has been launched for 27
aspirational districts.
Complementing this initiative, schemes such as the
Bharatmala Pariyojana, Sagarmala Programme, Ude
Desh ka Aam Nagrik (UDAN) scheme and the
development of Dedicated Freight Corridors are
transforming national highways, ports, airports and
rail freight corridors into modern and interconnected
networks.
The Government is also promoting Industrial
Infrastructure Parks through schemes like the
. P E J m F E * O E V T U S J B M * O G S B T U S V D U V S F 6 Q H S B E B U J P O
Scheme (MIIUS) and PM Mega Integrated Textile
Region and Apparel (PM MITRA) parks to attract
private investment, ensure plug-and-play
infrastructure and streamline regulatory approvals
through the Single Window Clearance Systems. In the
healthcare and life sciences sector the Promotion of
Medical Device Parks Scheme supports the creation
of specialised parks with common testing facilities,
regulatory assistance and R&D infrastructure. These
parks are strategically located near economic hubs
and aligned with logistics frameworks under the
National Logistics Policy, ensuring supply chain
F G m D J F O D Z B O E D P T U D P N Q F U J U J W F O F T T
Recognising India’s vulnerability to climate change
the Government is increasingly prioritising
sustainable and climate-resilient infrastructure. The
National Infrastructure Pipeline (NIP) places a
stronger emphasis on green infrastructure, such as
flood-resilient transportation systems, energy-efficient
buildings and renewable energy grids. Projects are
being assessed through a "green lens" to align with
India’s net-zero emissions target by 2070 and its
commitments under the Paris Agreement.
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113
STRENGTHENING THE
³ Á « Ás È ¨ 0 ! … ³ ç ³ Á 0 x Á …
DRIVE INNOVATION
To drive sustainable economic growth and generate
large scale employment opportunities, in 2016, India
started Startup India, an initiative intended to build a
strong ecosystem for nurturing innovation and
startups in the country. Its Action Plan is based on
U I S F F Q J M M B S T 4 J N Q M J m D B U J P O B O E ) B O E I P M E J O H ' V O E J O H
4 V Q Q P S U B O E * O D F O U J W F T B O E * O E V T U S Z " D B E F N J B
Partnership and Incubation. By the end of 2024,
T U B S U V Q D F S U J m D B U F T I B E C F F O J T T V F E X I J D I
were reported to create over 1.728 million jobs. The
number of States with dedicated start-up policies
increased from 4 in 2016 to 31 State/UTs policies in
2024
71
.
X z ( X r ³ Á « Á È ¨ R È
3rd largest start-up unicorn nation in the world with 118 unicorns that have a total valuation of over USD 354 Billion. R I W K H Q X P E H U R I V W D U W X S F H U W L À F D W H V K D Y H D W O H D V W Z R P D Q ' L U H F W R U
R I W K H Q X P E H U R I V W D U W X S F H U W L À F D W H V L V V X H G L Q Q R Q P H W U R F L W L H V Startups are spread across 56 Industries and top 5 Industries are IT services, Healthcare and Lifesciences, Education, Agriculture and Construction.
A major success of the Startup India initiative has been funding support granted to startups at every stage of their startup journey. Startup India Seed Fund 4 D I F N F 4 * 4 ' 4 I B T C F F O D S F B U F E U P Q S P W J E F m O B O D J B M assistance to startups for proof of concept, prototype development, product trials, market entry and commercialisation. This support enables startups to graduate to a level where they can raise investments from angel investors or venture capitalists or secure M P B O T G S P N D P N N F S D J B M C B O L T P S m O B O D J B M J O T U J U V U J P O T A Fund of Funds for Startups (FFS) has been formed to increase capital availability as well as to catalyse private investments and thereby accelerate the growth of the Indian startup ecosystem. Support has been created to provide guarantees through schemes like the Credit Guarantee Scheme for Startups (CGSS) which aims to ease access to early-stage debt requirements for startups. The objective of CGSS J T U P Q S P W J E F H V B S B O U F F T V Q U P B T Q F D J m F E M J N J U B H B J O T U credit instruments extended by Member Institutions G P S T U B S U V Q m O B O D J O H
To encourage entrepreneurs the National Startup
Awards are being conferred to selected startups that
have demonstrated exceptional capabilities and have
built innovative, scalable and impactful business
solutions. The fourth and the most recent edition for
the National Startup Awards launched in 2023
received applications from startups across 36
States/UTs, for 19 categories. 21 winners (20 unique
startups) were selected and each of the winning
startups were awarded a prize money of 10 million.
J … n Î× r INDUSTRY, INNOVATION AND INFRASTRUCTURE
114
7 K H % K D U D W 6 W D U W X S . Q R Z O H G J H $ F F H V V 5 H J L V W U \ % + $ 6 . $ 5 L Q L W L D W L Y H O D X Q F K H G L Q X Q G H U W K H 6 W D U W X S
India programme, is a platform to centralise, streamline and enhance collaboration among key stakeholders
within the entrepreneurial ecosystem, including startups, investors, mentors, service providers and
government bodies. By serving as a centralised registry, BHASKAR enables seamless access to a wide
array of resources, tools and knowledge that helps fuel the entrepreneurial journey from ideation to
execution and enable collaboration for all ecosystem stakeholders.
R ³ k «J « 0 à … n È Á X … z « ç ¨ n Á I … « x I … «
INDIA'S STARTUP ECOSYSTEM
While building on the accomplishments of Atal
Innovation Mission 1.0, such as Atal Tinkering Labs
(ATL) and Atal Incubation Centres (AIC), Atal
* O O P W B U J P O . J T T J P O I B T C F F O T J H O J m D B O U J O Q J M P U J O H
O F X J O J U J B U J W F T E F T J H O F E U P m M M H B Q T J O U I F F D P T Z T U F N
and scaling successes. It aims to strengthen India’s
innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystem by
supporting more innovators and entrepreneurs,
helping more startups succeed and by encouraging
entrepreneurs to create better jobs, products and
services. The establishment of the Anusandhan
National Research Foundation (ANRF) in 2023 has
marked a pivotal moment in the country’s efforts to
promote innovation with initiatives like the Prime
Minister's Early Career Research Grant and the
EV-Mission programme promoting electric vehicle
adoption.
WAY FORWARD
India's progress toward SDG 9, which focuses on
promoting inclusive and sustainable industrialisation,
building resilient infrastructure and fostering
J O O P W B U J P O S F n F D U T B D P N C J O B U J P O P G T J H O J m D B O U
advancements and ongoing challenges.
. B O V G B D U V S J O H F Y Q P S U T I B W F T M P X F E T J H O J m D B O U M Z E V F
to weak demand from destination countries and
aggressive trade policies in major economies.
Additionally, while above-average monsoon activity
has replenished reservoirs and supported agriculture,
it has also disrupted sectors like mining, construction
and manufacturing.
Infrastructure gaps remain a critical issue but the
T J H O J m D B O U D P O U J O V F E J O W F T U N F O U T J O F Y Q B O E J O H S P B E
networks, upgrading airports and advancing metro
Q S P K F D U T S F n F D U B D P N Q S F I F O T J W F T U S B U F H Z U P F O I B O D F
connectivity and mobility.
The government is working towards aligning India’s
regulatory framework with global business standards,
Q S P N P U J O H J O W F T U P S D P O m E F O D F G B D J M J U B U J O H T N P P U I F S
business operations, and enabling a greater ease of
doing business environment in the country. The Jan
Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Act, 2023
decriminalises minor offences and eliminates 183
criminal provisions across various Acts.
India’s predominantly service-oriented economy
presents another challenge as much of its workforce
is engaged in low-value-added roles vulnerable to
automation. To address, this fostering innovation
through programmes like Startup India remains
crucial for driving inclusive economic growth and
creating a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem. The
focus on disruptive technologies through initiatives
like the FFS (Fund of Funds for Startups) underscores
the importance of integrating research and
development with market strategies to scale
prototypes and accelerate commercialisation.
Looking ahead, addressing issues such as limited
B D D F T T U P m O B O D F G P S T N B M M T D B M F J O E V T U S J F T
infrastructure bottlenecks and skill mismatches is
essential. Strengthening institutional frameworks to
T V Q Q P S U J O E V T U S J B M E J W F S T J m D B U J P O B O E J O O P W B U J P O J T
equally important. By leveraging its demographic
dividend and advancing technological capabilities,
India has the potential to overcome these challenges
and emerge as a global hub for sustainable
industrialisation and innovation. Through sustained
F G G P S U T J O Q P M J D Z S F G P S N m O B O D J B M T V Q Q P S U G P S T U B S U V Q T
and infrastructure development, India can ensure that
its progress toward SDG 9 contributes meaningfully to
broader economic growth and social equity goals.
Additionally, India may strive for high-quality and
climate-resilient infrastructure development,
encourage innovation with consistent funding
(particularly in deep-tech areas) and establish an
inclusive industrial base to fully realise the potential
of SDG 9.
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115
10
GOAL
Reduced
Inequalities
The goal calls for progressively reducing not only
income inequalities but also inequalities-of-outcome
by ensuring access to equal opportunities and
promoting social, economic and political inclusion of
all, irrespective of age, sex, disability, race, ethnicity,
origin, religion or economic or any other status
relevant within a society. It also aims at enhancing
representation and voice for developing countries in
decision making in international economic and
m O B O D J B M J O T U J U V U J P O T
In India, contrary to much of the rest of the world,
inequalities along many dimensions are narrowing,
such as between the relative share of labour and
capital in the country’s economy as well as the gap
between rural and urban consumption expenditure.
Government efforts have aimed at reducing inequality
primarily through the regulation and monitoring of
m O B O D J B M N B S L F U T B O E J O T U J U V U J P O T B T X F M M B T C Z
promoting development and investment in regions
where needed. Expenditures on vulnerable segments
of society have also yielded positive results. Many
T Q F D J m D J O J U J B U J W F T J O U S P E V D F E C Z U I F H P W F S O N F O U T F F L
to share the country’s prosperity more widely,
especially for groups that have been vulnerable and
faced obstacles in the past. These include the
Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana which has
S F W P M V U J P O J T F E m O B O D J B M J O D M V T J P O 1 S B E I B O . B O U S J
Kisan Samman Nidhi which provides income support
to farmers, as well as Pradhan Mantri Janjati Adivasi
Nyaya Maha Abhiyan and Pradhan Mantri Janjatiya
Vikas Mission which have targeted support to
vulnerable tribal communities to further their social
and economic empowerment.
RISING SHARE OF LABOUR
INCOME IN THE ECONOMY
AND NARROWING OF
« È « ns È « z J ¨ ³
While the share of labour in GDP globally continued to
E F D M J O F E V F U P U I F m O B O D J B M J T B U P O P G U I F H M P C B M
economy and rising inequality worldwide, in India the
reverse has been true as the growth in the labour
force has increasingly played a stronger role in the
economic growth of the nation (See Figure 36).
Figure 36: Labour share of GDP
Source: SDG Labour Market Indicators (ILOSDG)
46
48
50
52
54
56
58
60
2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024
Southern Asia World India
Percentage
Year
J … n ÏÎ r « 0 ( È ! 0 ( X z 0 ª È n X Á X 0 ³
117
At the same time, new household consumption
expenditure data has confirmed that the urban-rural
gap in consumption expenditure is narrowing. The
urban-rural gap in average Monthly Per Capita
Expenditure (MPCE) has declined to 71% in 2022-23
from 84% in 2011-12. It has further come down to 70%
in 2023-24, which confirms the sustained momentum
of consumption growth in rural areas. The Gini
coefficient has been declining in recent years. For
rural areas it declined to 0.237 in 2023-24 from 0.266
in 2022-23, and in urban areas it fell to 0.284 in
2023-24 from 0.314 in 2022-23.
72
INCREASED GOVERNMENT
³ ¨ 0 z ( X z J … z
VULNERABLE REGIONS
z ( ¨ … ¨ È n Á X … z ³
Budget expenditures on vulnerable regions and
vulnerable populations have also been increased.
Enhanced investment in infrastructure across the
Northeast, particularly in the sectors of health,
education, shelter, water and road access, will
significantly improve living conditions. Strengthening
access to essential services and livelihoods through
their inclusion in government welfare schemes, such
as the Public Distribution System (PDS), the National
Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM), the Jal Jeevan
Mission and the Integrated Child Development
Services (ICDS) will contribute to their
socio-economic well-being and integration.
Expanding these interventions will ensure a more
resilient and inclusive response.
The percentage of budget allocated for welfare of
Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes stands at a
combined 24 percent of the total budget allocated to
the Union Government schemes. This has sharpened
policy attention on reducing inequalities faced by
these marginalised and vulnerable groups in line with
SDG 10. Similarly, the Aspirational District
Programme and Aspirational Block Programmes have
sought to reduce inequalities in the most vulnerable
districts and blocks in the country from the rest of the
country as a whole.
ENSURING BENEFITS
REACH EVERYONE AND
TARGETING THE
VULNERABLE
The Government through the implementation of Direct
# F O F G J U 5 S B O T G F S % # 5 ø J O J U J B U J W F I B T F O B C M F E S F B M U J N F
and transparent fund transfers for over 1,206
schemes in FY 2024-25, processing transactions
worth 2.23 trillion. These schemes include Mahatma
Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee,
Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojna,
Pratyaksh Hanstantrit Labh, National Social
Assistance Programme, Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojna
Rural and PM-Surya-Ghar. Extensive integration with
more than 100 external systems and seamless
interfaces with major banks has enhanced efficiency
B O E B D D P V O U B C J M J U Z ø
Launched in 2023, the Pradhan Mantri Janjati Adivasi
Nyaya Maha Abhiyan (PMJANMAN) focuses on
uplifting Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups
(PVTGs). It aims to improve the quality of life for PVTG
communities through targeted support in areas such
as safe housing, clean drinking water, education,
health, road and telecom connectivity, electrification
and sustainable livelihoods. The Mission is aimed at
targeted development of 75 Particularly Vulnerable
Tribal Groups (PVTGs) residing in 18 States and 1 UT,
who were unreached by earlier schemes.
Pradhan Mantri Janjatiya Vikas Mission aims to foster
tribal entrepreneurship and advance the "Vocal for
Local by Tribal" initiative. It emphasises empowering
tribal communities to harness natural resources
effectively, including Minor Forest Products (MFPs)
and non-MFPs, by supporting businesses centred
around locally produced goods. Seeks to achieve
livelihood-driven tribal development across the
country by providing forward and backward linkages
by setting up Van Dhan Vikas Kendras / Van Dhan
Producer Enterprises.
A concerted effort is being made by the Government
of India and various stakeholders to create a more
inclusive and equitable society for persons with
disabilities. Initiatives such as Sugamya Bharat
Abhiyaan, the National Disability Information Helpline
service, employability skills courses, and platforms
that aggregate employment opportunities and
provide vocational training with guaranteed
J … n ÏÎ r « 0 ( È ! 0 ( X z 0 ª È n X Á X 0 ³
118
J … n ÏÎ r « 0 ( È ! 0 ( X z 0 ª È n X Á X 0 ³
placements play a crucial role in this regard. These
efforts are enhancing accessibility, promoting
information dissemination, fostering skill
development, creating employment opportunities,
and supporting infrastructure development, laying a
strong foundation for continued progress in
empowering and integrating persons with disabilities.
The subnational governments are also focused on
fostering inclusivity, for instance, Nagaland has
created the YouthNet Incubation Centre which is the
first incubation space in the Northeast dedicated to
Persons with Disabilities.
ENSURING SOCIAL
¨ « … Á 0 ! Á X … z I … « Á R 0
¨ … … « 0 ³ Á z ( x … ³ Á
VULNERABLE
As part of the government’s efforts to provide financial
assistance National Social Assistance Programme
/ 4 " 1 D P O U J O V F T U P ø Q S P W J E F T P D J B M T F D V S J U Z U P T F O J P S
citizens, widows, disabled persons and bereaved
families on death of primary breadwinners belonging
to Below Poverty Line (BPL) households in rural and
urban areas.
With an aim to cover people in the unorganised
sector, the Atal Pension Yojana is creating a universal
social security system for all Indians, especially the
poor, the underprivileged and the workers. It has
C F F O E F T J H O F E J O T V D I B X B Z U I B U J U Q S P W J E F T ø
4 B N Q V S O B 4 V S B L T I B , B W B D I ø D P N Q M F U F D P W F S B H F U P
not only the subscriber by providing a life-long
defined and guaranteed pension amount but also to
the spouse by providing the same pension amount
after the demise of the subscriber and then to the
family by returning the entire corpus (accumulated till
the age of 60 years) to the nominee after the death of
the subscriber and spouse. The programme has
seen a surge in enrolments, reaching 73.3 million by
January 2025, with more than 8.995 million new
enrolments in FY 2024-25.
73
The Government has launched an umbrella scheme
“SMILE - Support for Marginalized Individuals for
Livelihood and Enterprise” which includes two
sub-schemes - ‘Central Sector Scheme for
Comprehensive Rehabilitation for Welfare of
Transgender Persons’ and ‘Central Sector Scheme for
Comprehensive Rehabilitation of persons engaged in
the act of Begging’. This umbrella scheme covers
several comprehensive measures including welfare
measures for both transgender persons and persons
who are engaged in the act of begging with focus
extensively on rehabilitation, provision of medical
facilities, counselling, education, skill development,
economic linkages etc. with the support of State
Governments/UTs/Local Urban Bodies, Voluntary
Organizations, Community Based Organisations
(CBOs) and institutions and others. Currently, it is
B D U J W F J O ø D J U J F T B O E U P X O T J O D M V E J O H L F Z ø
pilgrimage, historical and tourist locations with plans
U P F Y Q B O E U P ø N P S F D J U J F T ø J O U I F O F Y U Q I B T F
119
STRENGTHENING
COMMUNITIES THROUGH
ACCESS TO FINANCIAL
SERVICES
Financial inclusion remains a key government priority,
striving to provide banking, credit and insurance
services to the unbanked and underserved. Through
initiatives like the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana the
Government is working to empower individuals,
secure financial futures and promote
entrepreneurship. The motto "From Jan Dhan to Jan
Suraksha," encapsulates the vision of financial
security and inclusive growth for all.
Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) ensures
comprehensive financial inclusion of all households in
the country by providing universal access to banking
facilities with at least one basic bank account to every
household, financial literacy and social security
cover. To provide accidental death and disability
coverage, the Government has implemented the
Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana (PMSBY), a
one-year personal accident insurance scheme,
renewable from year to year, that offers coverage for
death/disability due to an accident and is available to
people in the age group of 18 to 70 years having a
bank account who give their consent to join and
enable auto-debit.
In order to provide the rural poor with a platform for
mutual support, savings and credit access, the
Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Rural
Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM) is focusing on
developing community institutions like Self-Help
Groups (SHGs), Village Organisations (VOs) and
Cluster Level Federations (CLFs). These groups offer
collective resources to overcome poverty. It also
places women at the core of development by forming
SHGs and federating them into VOs and CLFs. It
fosters social capital by involving women in
decision-making, strengthening trust and cooperation
within rural communities. More than 0.6 million trained
Community Resource Persons (CRPs) are involved in
thematic areas such as livestock, agriculture and
G J O B O D J B M T F S W J D F T 6 O E F S U I F T B N F Q S P H S B N N F ø
Lakhpati Didi Initiative is empowering women to
become financially self-sufficient. The goal is to
create 30 million "Lakhpati Didis" (women earning
100,000 or more annually) by helping women to
scale up businesses and contribute to sustainable
development across rural India. So far, 11.5 million SHG
women have become Lakhpati Didis in the country.
( ( « 0 ³ ³ X z J X z 0 ª È n X Á X 0 ³
… I … ¨ ¨ … « Á È z X Á ç X z ³ ( J
¨ « … J « 0 ³ ³
Reducing inequality requires understanding and
addressing the barriers that hold back those left
furthest behind by progress and closing the gaps
between their achievements and those of society as a
whole. Individuals or households facing these
inequalities of opportunity often share a combination
of overlapping socio-economic or demographic
characteristics. For example, being both young and
living in a rural area can mean you are less likely to
have a bank account than either young people in
general or rural inhabitants in general.
In 2024, a study was conducted to understand the
inequalities in sexual and reproductive health and
rights (SRHR) and child health in Rajasthan, using an
equity lens that focuses on marginalised subsections
of the population.
74
To undertake a comprehensive
analysis the UNFPA drew classification trees (See
Figure 37) to show how the differences in access
among groups of pregnant women can vary
according to their socio-economic characteristics.
This method deconstructs intersectionality by
analysing the combined effects of various
socioeconomic factors, such as wealth quintile,
educational attainment, place of residence and caste
categories. By stratifying the population across these
dimensions the analysis highlights the most
disadvantaged groups, helping to pinpoint those who
are most marginalised in terms of access to services
and outcomes. The furthest behind subpopulation
that this tree shows are pregnant women in rural
areas who are poor, non-ST/non-SC and who have
received less than 5 years schooling. Among these
women, just 84.1% received any antenatal care,
compared with 94.2% for the state as a whole. This is
useful information that can help the targeting of last
mile delivery interventions towards the populations
most at risk.
J … n ÏÎ r « 0 ( È ! 0 ( X z 0 ª È n X Á X 0 ³
120
) L J X U H & O D V V L À F D W L R Q W U H H R I J U R X S V R I Z R P H Q L Q 5 D M D V W K D Q
Z K R U H F H L Y H G D Q \ W \ S H R I D Q W H Q D W D O F D U H G X U L Q J S U H J Q D Q F \
$ Q \ $ 1 &
94.2
Urban
96.2
5 L F K
97.1
Poor
91.7
5 , F K
94.2
Poor
92.9
ST
100.0
SC
95.6
General
96.2
ST
96.4
SC
91.1
General
91.0
\ H D U V
of schooling
100.0
\ H D U V
schooling
84.1
5 X U D O
93.6
Source: UNFPA based on NFHS-5
ESCAP’s Leave No One Behind (LNOB) methodology
of classification and regression tree (CART) analysis
takes a similar approach to identify the
socioeconomic characteristics that define groups of
the population who are “furthest behind” and “furthest
ahead” on various measures of SDG progress. The
CART analysis is entirely data-driven and lets the
partitioning of the data emerge from the underlying
variation within household survey data sets, such as
NFHS, PLFS, etc. CART uses a machine learning
algorithm to draw predictive or decision “trees”
through recursive binary splitting. The algorithm
calculates the differences in variance between all
possible subsets of the data that can be constructed
by stratifying the population across available
categorical variables. The stratifying variable which
produces the largest difference in variance between
subpopulations defines the first branch in the tree.
The algorithm then proceeds recursively to further
subdivide the divided populations by the next most
important source of variance, and so on, constructing
the complete tree based on the underlying variation in
the data.
J … n ÏÎ r « 0 ( È ! 0 ( X z 0 ª È n X Á X 0 ³
121
This methodology can be applied to any SDG
indicator calculated from a household survey dataset
to identify the combination of categorical variables
that define those who have been left furthest behind. It
represents in a tree structure the mutually exclusive
groups from the sample population with significantly
different levels of access to an opportunity or
prevalence of a certain barrier. For example, Figure
38 draws the CART tree showing significant
differences in prevalence of multidimensional poverty
among subpopulations defined by available
socio-economic and demographic variables available
from the 2019-21 NFHS data.
The root of the tree (14.96 percent, here rounded to 15
percent) shows the average prevalence of
multidimensional poverty in the population. The
orange “leaf” or “branch” of the tree shows that
households where the family head is under age 45
and is educated only to primary level form the group
within the population which is the “furthest behind” on
progress reducing multidimensional poverty. 36% of
this population is estimated to be multidimensionally
poor. By contrast the “furthest ahead” group –
depicted by the blue node – are households in urban
areas that have a household head educated at
secondary school level or higher. Just 2 among this
population are multidimensionally poor. The gap in
achievement among identifiable groups within the
population thus ranges from 2% to 36%, given the
available data and the average value of 14.96%.
Figure 39 summarizes the gaps in SDG achievement
that can be identified by CART analysis between
furthest behind and furthest ahead groups that
emerge from similar trees for other indicators. It
shows the range of values between the furthest
behind and furthest behind groups identified for each
SDG indicator that are calculated from the NFHS and
PLFS survey data and compares them with the
national averages.
) L J X U H & O D V V L À F D W L R Q D Q G 5 H J U H V V L R Q 7 U H H $ Q D O \ V L V I R U P X O W L G L P H Q V L R Q D O
S R Y H U W \ K H D G F R X Q W U D W L R R I G L I I H U H Q W J U R X S V L Q , Q G L D
0 X O W L G L P H Q V L R Q D O O \
S R R U
6 H F R Q G D U \ R U
W H U W L D U \ H G X
Urban residence
5 X U D O U H V L G H Q F H
/ R Z H U H G X
$ J H J U R X S
Household size
<6
Household size
<7
Household size
>=6
Household size
>=7
$ J H J U R X S
$ J H J U R X S X Q G H U
45
$ J H J U R X S
$ J H J U R X S
$ J H J U R X S X Q G H U
45
Source: ESCAP calculations based on NFHS-5
J … n ÏÎ r « 0 ( È ! 0 ( X z 0 ª È n X Á X 0 ³
122
Importantly, over the past decade of India’s SDG
progress, the gaps in progress between the furthest
behind and the national average have narrowed
across most indicators. This means that in general
the furthest behind groups haven’t been left behind in
progress. In fact, progress for those groups who were
furthest behind in 2015-16 has been faster than
average across a wide range of SDG indicators.
Figure 40 shows the gaps that have closed between
the furthest behind groups and the furthest ahead
compared with progress in the national average
between National Family Health Survey Round 4 and
Round 5.
Note: All results are weighted using respective weights. The results are validated against the published NFHS report online. The source of data
for employment indicators is PLFS 2023.
) L J X U H * D S V L Q 6 ' * S U R J U H V V E H W Z H H Q I X U W K H V W E H K L Q G D Q G I X U W K H V W
D K H D G J U R X S V L G H Q W L À H G E \ D J H S R Y H U W \ J H Q G H U U X U D O X U E D Q V W D W X V H D U O \ V
0 X O W L G L P H Q V L R Q D O O \
Poor
Stunting Wasting 2 Y H U Z H L J K W $ Q \ W \ S H
of VAW
8 Q H P S O R \ P H Q W < R X W K 1 ( ( 7
ZERO
HUNGER
2
ZERO
HUNGER
2
GENDER
EQUALITY
5
DECENT WORK
AND ECONOMIC
GROWTH
5
1.22 2.21 2.22 2.22 5.21 8.52 8.61
DECENT WORK AND ECONOMIC GROWTH
5
ZERO HUNGER
2
NO POVERTY
1
36
6 K D U H R I K R X V H K R O G V L Q G L Y L G X D O V
15
2
49
36
9
23
19
13
37
27
14
15
4.2
73
23.5
4.7
5
4
1.1
2
0
20
40
60
80
100
$ Y H U D J H U D W H
Furthest ahead Furthest behind
Source: ESCAP calculations based on NFHS Round 5 (2019-2021) and PLFS 2023.
J … n ÏÎ r « 0 ( È ! 0 ( X z 0 ª È n X Á X 0 ³
123
) L J X U H ) H Z H U S H R S O H K D Y H E H H Q O H I W E H K L Q G D V J D S V Q D U U R Z H G
$ * D S V L Q K R X V H K R O G L Q G L F D W R U V ²
Share of households (%)
100
90
80
70
60
50
40
30
20
10
0
2015 16
2019 21
Basic drinking water
2015 16
2019 21
Basic sanitation
2015 16
2019 21
Clean fuel
2015 16
2019 21
2015 16
2019 21
Electricity
Bank Account
Furthest Behind Average Furthest Ahead
Source and Note: ESCAP LNOB Platform based on NFHS (2015-2016) and NFHS (2019-2021). Note that the
circumstances that intersect in identifying the furthest behind and furthest ahead groups may change over time.
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
90
100
Furthest Behind Average Furthest Ahead
Source: ESCAP LNOB Platform based on NFHS (2015-2016) and NFHS (2019-2021). Note that the circumstances that intersect in identifying the furthest behind and furthest ahead groups may change over time.
% & K D Q J H L Q J D S V I R U L Q G L Y L G X D O L Q G L F D W R U V ²
2
0
1
5
-
1
6
2
0
1
9
-
2
1
Family planning Skilled birth
attendance
Early childhood
education
Literacy
(Men)
Literacy(Women) Secondary education Tertiary
education
Birth registration
2
0
1
5
-
1
6
2
0
1
9
-
2
1
2
0
1
5
-
1
6
2
0
1
9
-
2
1
2
0
1
5
-
1
6
2
0
1
9
-
2
1
2
0
1
5
-
1
6
2
0
1
9
-
2
1
2
0
1
5
-
1
6
2
0
1
9
-
2
1
2
0
1
5
-
1
6
2
0
1
9
-
2
1
2
0
1
5
-
1
6
2
0
1
9
-
2
1
J … n ÏÎ r « 0 ( È ! 0 ( X z 0 ª È n X Á X 0 ³
124
WAY FORWARD
In today’s globalised world income inequality is
increasingly shaped by economic dynamics and
market forces that often lie beyond the direct control
of any particular country. Despite these challenges
India’s recent experience demonstrates that national
policies can still play a transformative role in reducing
other forms of inequality, particularly those related to
consumption and access to essential services.
Through the effective design and implementation of
targeted interventions focused on the convergence of
initiatives and saturation of essential services through
programmes like ADP and ABP, India has made
significant progress in narrowing disparities, fostering
inclusion and ensuring that benefits continue to reach
individuals, particularly those from marginalised
communities.
By continuing to focus on improving the delivery of
programmes, increasing access to opportunities,
enabling more technological innovation, strengthening
governance, deepening investments in social
protection and addressing structural inequalities with
inclusive policies, India is equipping itself to sustain
and advance progress towards SDG 10.
J … n ÏÎ r « 0 ( È ! 0 ( X z 0 ª È n X Á X 0 ³
125
11
GOAL
Sustainable Cities
and Communities
SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) aims to
foster inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable cities
and human settlements. Sustainable cities and
communities are founded on the principles of social,
economic and environmental sustainability.
Urbanisation has led to the creation of new jobs and
opportunities, contributing to poverty reduction. The
sustainable development of cities plays a pivotal role
in national development, providing avenues for
economic and social prosperity. Urban areas can
address challenges of rapid growth by enhancing
resource utilisation, reducing pollution and poverty
and ensuring access to basic services, energy and
housing, while simultaneously lowering greenhouse
gas emissions. Rapid urbanisation has presented
numerous challenges to infrastructure such as
increased demand for resources like water, energy
and transportation.
The Government is implementing multiple initiatives to
support sustainable urbanisation. The National Smart
Cities Mission, an urban renewal and retrofitting
programme, aims to develop smart cities nationwide.
The Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban
Transformation (AMRUT) is dedicated to establishing
infrastructure capable of providing robust sewage
networks and water supply to facilitate urban
transformation.
Additionally, Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY)
was launched to ensure affordable housing for all.
Municipal solid waste management also remains a
major environmental issue in Indian cities and
therefore significant progress in urban waste
management also remains an important area of focus.
“
SMART CITIES
The Smart Cities Mission (SCM) aims to enhance the
quality of life in India's cities through smart,
sustainable solutions. Its goal is to create cities that
are economically vibrant, inclusive and environment
friendly. By focusing on key areas like infrastructure,
governance and social development, SCM seeks to
U S B O T G P S N V S C B O M J W J O H B D S P T T U I F D P V O U S Z ø 8 J U I
cities leading the initiative the mission is reshaping
urban landscapes across India. As of December
P G U I F Q S P K F D U T V O E F S U I F 4 N B S U $ J U J F T
Mission have been completed
75
, which demonstrates
the country’s commitment to creating smarter, more
liveable urban spaces for all.
6 O E F S U I F 4 N B S U $ J U J F T . J T T J P O F B D I P G U I F D J U J F T
has selected a defined area for targeted
interventions. These areas, chosen through citizen
participation, are being developed as replicable
models for other parts of the city. Each city also has
included pan-city technology-driven solutions. Under
SCM over 66 cities are managing solid waste with
increased technology use improving route
management, efficiency of collection and daily
N B O B H F N F O U 8 B U F S T V Q Q M Z T Z T U F N T B S F C F J O H
monitored, reducing non-revenue water and
M F B L B H F T 0 W F S L J M P N F U S F T P G T N B S U S P B E T I B W F
also been constructed or improved and 713
kilometres of cycle tracks have been developed.
76
In addition to the core initiatives the Smart Cities
Mission has introduced projects in response to
emerging challenges. For example, in the wake of the
$ 0 7 * % Q B O E F N J D D B N Q B J H O T M J L F
A $ Z D M F T $ I B O H F B O E A 4 U S F F U T 1 F P Q M F X F S F M B V O D I F E
to promote open spaces for active living. To ensure
inclusive access to public spaces, initiatives such as
the ‘Placemaking Marathons’ and ‘Nurturing
Neighbourhoods Challenge’ focused on vulnerable
groups were created. Other challenges like
A 5 S B O T Q P S U " M M B O E A & B U 4 N B S U $ J U J F T B J N U P T V Q Q P S U
public transport startups and improve food hygiene in
smart cities.
CITIIS, or City Investments to Innovate, Integrate and
Sustain, is a sub-component of the Smart Cities
Mission. It aims to enhance sustainability, inclusion
and liveability in cities across India through
innovation-driven urban infrastructure projects,
capacity building and knowledge dissemination.1
Government has approved the ‘City Investments to
* O O P W B U F * O U F H S B U F B O E 4 V T U B J O $ * 5 * * 4 J O B
Z F B S Q S P H S B N N F X J U I U I S F F D P N Q P O F O U T G J O B O D J B M
and technical support for up to 18 Smart Cities on
circular economy and waste management, climate
action support for all States/UTs and national-level
interventions for urban scale-up.
Hundreds of small cities have a key role in achieving the resolve of a developed India by 2047.
Our government is upgrading basic facilities in such urban centres to improve ease of living.”
+ R Q · E O H 3 U L P H 0 L Q L V W H U 6 K U L 1 D U H Q G U D 0 R G L-
J … n ÏÏ r ³ È ³ Á X z n 0 ! X Á X 0 ³ z ( ! … x x È z X Á X 0 ³
127
As part of the National Industrial Corridor Development Programme (NICDP) India is focusing on
development of futuristic industrial cities which can compete with the best manufacturing and investment
destinations in the world. The programme emphasises integrating industrial, urban and economic
E F W F M P Q N F O U U I S P V H I D S F B U J P O P G H S F F O G J F M E * O E V T U S J B M 4 N B S U $ J U J F T 5 I F T F D J U J F T B S F D I B S B D U F S J T F E C Z
• State of the art plug and play physical infrastructure (Multimodal connectivity, power supply, water
systems, etc.).
• Technology driven solutions for efficient urban management.
• A focus on environmental sustainability through smart waste management systems and promoting
green energy.
• Creation of employment opportunities and economic growth leading to overall socio-economic
development.
The programme emphasises efficient and inclusive planning through a comprehensive area development
approach, leveraging PM Gati Shakti's advanced data layers and analytical tools to identify optimal locations
and meet future demand-supply requirements for infrastructure, encompassing manufacturing as well as
socio-economic development. The project incorporates inclusive city planning principles to ensure equal
opportunities for workforce participation across all genders, fostering a diverse and equitable work
environment. The selection of manufacturing sectors has been carefully aligned with the regional context,
taking into account the availability of local raw materials and labour resources. This approach is designed to
maximise employment opportunities, particularly for marginalized groups residing in the surrounding areas,
thereby promoting socio-economic upliftment and ensuring community integration within the industrial
ecosystem.
Á « z ³ I … « x X z J ³ Á « Á 0 J X ! « 0 ³ X z Á … á … « n (s ! n ³ ³
X z ( È ³ Á « X n z ( 0 ! … z … x X ! R È ³
J … n ÏÏ r ³ È ³ Á X z n 0 ! X Á X 0 ³ z ( ! … x x È z X Á X 0 ³
128
The Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban
5 S B O T G P S N B U J P O " . 3 6 5 X B T M B V O D I F E J O D J U J F T
J O " T V C T D I F N F P G " . 3 6 5 G P D V T F T P O
formulating Geographical Information System (GIS)
based master plans for AMRUT cities. This involves
geodatabase creation, GIS based master plan
G P S N V M B U J P O B O E D B Q B D J U Z C V J M E J O H B O E D P W F S T
cities across 35 States / UTs. Final Geo database has
C F F O D S F B U F E G P S D J U J F T % S B G U ( * 4 C B T F E N B T U F S
Q M B O T I B W F C F F O G P S N V M B U F E G P S D J U J F T B O E G J O B M
GIS based master plans have been approved in 223
cities.
77
È « z ¨ n z z X z J
4 J O D F U I F Q S P Q P S U J P O P G * O E J B O D J U J F T X J U I . B T U F S
1 M B O T I B T S J T F O G S P N P V U P G U P N P S F U I B O P V U P G
4 F F ' J H V S F 5 I F ( P W F S O N F O U Q S P W J E F T T V Q Q P S U U P
States / Union Territories for formulation of master
plans by issuing advisories and design standards,
providing schematic interventions and financial
B T T J T U B O D F F U D ø
) L J X U H 3 U R S R U W L R Q R I F L W L H V Z L W K 0 D V W H U S O D Q V L Q
Percentage of cities with Master Plans
Year
Source: Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs
0
20
30
2020 2022
J … n ÏÏ r ³ È ³ Á X z n 0 ! X Á X 0 ³ z ( ! … x x È z X Á X 0 ³
X x ¨ « … à 0 x 0 z Á ³ X z á ³ Á 0
x z J 0 x 0 z Á
To deal with urban planning challenges related to
garbage, waste and sewage, the government
launched the Swachh Bharat Mission -Urban
4 # . 6 J O 4 X B D I I # I B S B U . J T T J P O 6 S C B O
Indian cities are also today processing much more of
U I F J S X B T U F 4 F F ' J H V S F E V F U P J O J U J B U J W F T M J L F
" . 3 6 5 " U B M . J T T J P O G P S 3 F K V W F O B U J P O B O E 6 S C B O
5 S B O T G P S N B U J P O " . 3 6 5 T D I F N F X B T M B V O D I F E
J O J O B M M 6 - # T D J U J F T 5 I F T F J O J U J B U J W F T B S F
enabling the cities to become 'self-reliant' and 'water
secure'. Providing universal coverage of sewerage
B O E T F Q U B H F N B O B H F N F O U J O " . 3 6 5 D J U J F T J T
P O F P G U I F N B K P S G P D V T B S F B T P G " . 3 6 5
Rejuvenation of water bodies, development of green
spaces and parks and Technology Sub-Mission to
leverage latest technologies in the field of water are
other components of the Mission. The Government is
prioritising storm water drainage systems to address
waterlogging challenges alongside continuing
efforts to enhance drinking water availability and
sewerage systems.
The schemes are actively monitored through review at
various levels of the information submitted by
States/Union Territories on progress and through field
visits. Additionally, the ‘Swachh Survekshan’ survey is
conducted annually under SBM-U through third-party
assessment to evaluate the cleanliness status and
progress in the implementation of SBM-U in cities.
78
³ I 0K I I … « ( n 0 z (
! ! 0 ³ ³ X n 0 Á « z ³ ¨ … « Á
* O E J B D V S S F O U M Z I B T B C P V U L N P G N F U S P Q P M J U B O S B J M
network including regional rapid transit system
operational in 23 cities across the country. A number
of advancements and technological innovations like
the European Train Control System, Platform Screen
Door and Indigenous Automatic Train Supervision
systems have taken place. Installation of solar panels
and adopting regenerative braking systems has
4 # . 6 X B T M B V O D I F E J O G P S B Q F S J P E P G G J W F
Z F B S T V Q U P X J U I B W J T J P O P G B D I J F W J O H T B G F
sanitation and scientific processing of municipal solid
waste in all cities.
0
0
20
30
0
0
0
0
0
0
20 20 20 20 2020 202 2022 2023 202
) L J X U H 3 H U F H Q W D J H R I Z D V W H S U R F H V V H G
Percentage of waste processed
Source: Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs
Year
J … n ÏÏ r ³ È ³ Á X z n 0 ! X Á X 0 ³ z ( ! … x x È z X Á X 0 ³
considerably reduced power consumption making
metro projects more sustainable and environment
G S J F O E M Z L N P G U I F # V T 3 B Q J E 5 S B O T J U 4 Z T U F N
network is operational in the country and expansion to
L N J O D J U J F T J T B M S F B E Z T B O D U J P O F E
¨ « … à X ( X z J I I … « ( n 0
R … È ³ X z J
The Government has been implementing Pradhan
. B O U S J " X B T : P K B O B o 6 S C B O 1 . " : 6 T J O D F U P
provide pucca houses with basic amenities to all
eligible urban beneficiaries. The scheme has been
J N Q M F N F O U F E J O $ J U J F T 6 S C B O - P D B M # P E J F T
6 - # T J O D M V E J O H B M M . F U S P Q P M J U B O $ J U J F T B D S P T T U I F
country. Further, based on the learning from the
F Y Q F S J F O D F T P G Z F B S T J N Q M F N F O U B U J P O P G 1 . " : 6
the Central Government has revamped the scheme
B O E M B V O D I F E 1 . " : 6 A ) P V T J O H G P S " M M . J T T J P O
X J U I F G G F D U G S P N 4 F Q U F N C F S G P S J N Q M F N F O U B U J P O J O
urban areas across the country to construct, purchase
B O E S F O U B I P V T F C Z N J M M J P O B E E J U J P O B M F M J H J C M F
beneficiaries at affordable cost through four verticals
J F # F O F G J D J B S Z - F E $ P O T U S V D U J P O # - $ " G G P S E B C M F
) P V T J O H J O 1 B S U O F S T I J Q " ) 1 " G G P S E B C M F 3 F O U B M
) P V T J O H " 3 ) B O E * O U F S F T U 4 V C T J E Z 4 D I F N F * 4 4
In rural India, Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana Gramin is
improving access to affordable housing and playing a
key role in transforming the rural housing landscape,
reducing poverty, improving living standards and
fostering social and economic development.
! ! 0 ³ ³ Á … J « 0 0 z ³ ¨ ! 0 ³
* O U I F ( P W F S O N F O U M B V O D I F E U I F S F W J T F E / B H B S
Van Yojana (NVY) in an effort to enhance the urban
greenery for improving the quality of life and
increasing social cohesion in cities. These Nagar
Vans are not only vital environmental resources but
also provide a space for recreation, environment
education, biodiversity conservation and a tool for
adaptation towards climate change making the cities
climate resilient. The scheme provides financial
assistance for the creation and maintenance of these
urban forests, encouraging the involvement of
citizens, students and other stakeholders in the
creation and management of these green spaces.
/ B H B S 7 B O B S F B T S B O H F G S P N B N J O J N V N P G I B U P
ha. Emphasis is on biodiversity, Planting fruit-bearing,
medicinal and native species to attract wildlife and
promote ecological balance. Community participation
is central with opportunities for public engagement
through tree planting, educational programmes and
sustainable management. Each Nagar Van must have
at least two-thirds of its area under tree cover and
have components like Biodiversity Parks, Smriti Vans,
# V U U F S G M Z $ P O T F S W B U P S J F T B O E ) F S C B M ( B S E F O T 5 I F
/ B H B S 7 B O : P K B O B B J N T U P E F W F M P Q / B H B S 7 B O T
C Z U I F Z F B S
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á ç I … « á « (
India is urbanising rapidly with projections indicating
U I B U C Z N P S F U I B O Q F S D F O U P G U I F Q P Q V M B U J P O
will live in urban areas. Urban development has
become a key government priority, focusing on
modernising cities, improving infrastructure, and
enhancing the quality of urban living. The
establishment of a 1 trillion Urban Challenge Fund in
81
demonstrates the government’s strong
commitment to sustainable and inclusive urban
growth. This fund supports initiatives such as Cities as
( S P X U I ) V C T $ S F B U J W F 3 F E F W F M P Q N F O U P G $ J U J F T B O E
8 B U F S B O E 4 B O J U B U J P O Q S P K F D U T S F G M F D U J O H B
comprehensive approach to urban transformation.
) P X F W F S U I F J O D S F B T J O H G S F R V F O D Z P G F Y U S F N F
weather events, including cyclones, floods, heat
waves, water scarcity and drought-like conditions,
has adversely impacted many cities causing loss of
life and affecting economic growth. In response, the
Climate Smart Cities Assessment Framework
$ 4 $ " ' M B V O D I F E J O Q S P W J E F T D J U J F T X J U I B
clear roadmap to combat climate change through
planning and investment. This framework with its 28
progressive indicators across five thematic areas
helps cities benchmark their development, identify
gaps and prioritise climate-relevant actions.
Strengthening climate-sensitive urban development is
crucial as cities are at the forefront of addressing both
urbanisation and climate change challenges.
Effective urban planning requires a deep
understanding of each city’s economic base,
constraints and competitive advantages. The
Government has recognised that focusing solely on
tier-1 cities is insufficient. Programmes such as
" . 3 6 5 1 S B E I B O . B O U S J " X B T : P K B O B
(PMAY)-Urban, Swachh Bharat Mission-Urban and
the Smart Cities Mission have demonstrated the
importance of tailoring measures to the specific
needs of cities across different tiers. This approach
ensures that the benefits of urbanisation reach every
citizen, fostering inclusive growth.
The Government is also fostering a culture of
innovation in urban development by reimagining
cities as living labs that harness data and technology.
This innovative mindset is essential for addressing the
complex challenges of urbanisation and for creating
sustainable and resilient cities.
Moving forward, India will continue to strengthen its
urban development strategies by integrating climate
resilience, innovation and inclusivity. Sustained efforts
in planning, investment and governance will be
critical to balancing rapid urban growth with
sustainable infrastructure development and inclusive
policies. By doing so India aims to build cities that are
not only engines of economic growth but also models
of sustainability and inclusiveness, ensuring a better
quality of life for all residents.
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12
GOAL
Responsible
Consumption and
Production
SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production)
aims to ensure sustainable consumption and
production patterns. This approach to economic
development seeks to minimise the negative impact
of human activities on the environment while
promoting social equity and economic prosperity.
According to the Oslo Symposium of 1994,
sustainable consumption and production is defined
as “the use of services and related products which
respond to basic needs and bring a better quality of
life, while minimising the use of natural resources and
toxic materials, as well as the emission of waste and
pollutants over the life cycle of the service or product,
so as not to jeopardise the needs of future
generations.” Goal 12 emphasises the efficient use of
natural resources, energy efficiency and sustainable
infrastructure.
India is a part of international initiatives and
agreements on sustainable consumption and
production including the 10 Years Framework of
Programmes on sustainable consumption and
production (10YFP) process. Government has given
special consideration to renewable energy, organic
agriculture, biofertilizers, reduced emission etc. in
order to ensure responsible consumption and
production. India has also pioneered international
approaches to sustainable consumption and
production through Mission LiFE, which is an
India-led global mass movement to nudge
individual and community action to protect and
preserve the environment.
LIFESTYLES FOR
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Mission LiFE is a global initiative launched by India in
October, 2022 aimed at fostering sustainable
lifestyles through mindful and deliberate consumption
to protect the environment. Following its introduction
at COP-26 in Glasgow in 2021, Mission LiFE has also
been recognised by the G20 in 2023 and has inspired
the Sustainable Lifestyles resolution agreed by the
UN Environmental Assembly in 2024.
Mission LiFE encourages individuals and
communities to adopt eco-friendly behaviours,
reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving
health and well-being at the same time. India is taking
examples from its rich culture and from modern
scientific solutions to strengthen collective awareness
and action towards environmentally-friendly
behaviour and choices.
The initiative focuses on seven core themes: saving
water, conserving energy, reducing waste, managing
e-waste, eliminating single-use plastics, promoting
sustainable food systems, and adopting healthy
lifestyles. Mission LiFE has been included, as a
non-quantifiable indicators under Nationally
Determined Contributions (NDCs).
LiFE actions are easy to practice by individuals and
promote economic activity in the foreseeable future.
Mission LiFE aims to build a mass movement of
people for adopting sustainable lifestyles based on
mindful utilisation, minimising waste and making
green choices, for themselves, their families and their
communities.
Ecomark Rules 2024 encourage the demand for environment-friendly products aligning with the principles of
'LIFE’, promote lower energy consumption, resource efficiency and circular economy. The scheme seeks to
ensure accurate labelling and prevent misleading information about products. Products accredited under the
Ecomark Scheme need to adhere to specific environmental criteria ensuring minimal environmental impact.
This will build consumer awareness of environmental issues and encourage sustainable consumption. It will
also motivate manufacturers to shift towards environmentally friendly production.
The scheme marks a significant step in promoting sustainable lifestyles and through individual and collective
decision making, encourages sustainable consumption in India. It aligns with global sustainability goals and
reflects the government's commitment to conservation and protection of the environment.
ENSURE ACCURATE LABELLING AND PREVENT
MISLEADING INFORMATION
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135
CIRCULAR ECONOMY:
FROM WASTE TO WEALTH
India is shifting from waste management to
harnessing the economic potential of recycling
through waste to wealth initiatives. The circular
economy will play a major role in reducing, reusing,
and recycling at every stage, from product design to
By the year 2050 India’s circular economy is
expected to have a market value of $2 trillion and
create 10 million jobs, representing a sizable
opportunity for start-ups and new recycled product
developers. The recycling industry in the country is
developing and adopting newer innovative
technologies for reducing dependence on natural
resources as well as cutting down imports of critical
minerals needed for economic growth.
The Government has notified regulatory frameworks
for Circular Economy in various waste streams.
Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) rules have
been notified for plastic waste, tyre waste, battery
waste, used oil waste and e-waste. Further, EPR
framework for scrap metals, end of life vehicles, solid
waste and liquid waste, construction and demolition
waste are under active consideration. The EPR
framework will not only enhance the circularity in
economy but also help manage the wastes in
environmentally sound manner. A robust recycling
industry will also create jobs and contribute to
economic growth.
Generation of e-waste has increased over the past
years and is increasing day by day due to increased
usage of electrical and electronic equipment (EEE) by
D P O T V N F S T ø 5 P B E E S F T T U I J T U I F ( P W F S O N F O U S F W J T F E
the E-Waste (Management) Rules and revised rules
came into force in 2023. The objective is to take all
steps required to ensure that e-waste is managed in a
manner that protects health and environment against
any adverse effects from e-waste. These new rules
intend to manage e-waste in an environmentally
sound manner and put in place an improved
Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) regime for
e-waste recycling wherein all the manufacturers,
producers, refurbishers and recyclers are required to
register on a specific portal.
end-of-life management. Waste should not be treated
as a burden but as a resource. As such the number of
waste recycling plants in the country has more than
doubled since 2020 (See Figure 43).
0
500
1000
1500
2000
2500
3000
2020 2021 2023 2024
Figure 43: Number of waste recycling plants installed
Source: Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs
Number of waste recycling plants installed
Years
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SUSTAINABLE TEXTILE PRACTICES
PHASING OUT FOSSIL FUEL SUBSIDIES
0.00
0.05
0.10
0.15
0.20
0.25
2015-16 2016-17 2017-18 2018-19 2019-20 2020-21 2021-22 2022-23
Figure 44: Amount of fossil fuel subsidies per unit of GDP
India is also shifting its focus from an unsustainable
dependence on fossil fuel subsidies to fostering clean
energy. India’s reform of fuel subsidies has slashed
subsidies by a striking margin between 2014 and
2018. 82
This has led to the level of fossil fuel subsidies
per unit of GDP dropping dramatically since the advent
of the SDGs (See Figure 44
).
This shift was achieved through careful steps,
including the gradual phasing out of petrol and diesel
subsidies from 2010 to 2014, followed by measured
tax hikes on these fuels up to 2017. These moves,
though bold, were made to create fiscal breathing
room for renewable projects, allowing the government
to channel funds into clean energy initiatives at an
unprecedented scale. With subsidies for solar parks,
distributed energy solutions and state-owned
enterprises now steadily rising, India’s commitment to
clean power sets a strong example for others looking
to shift toward a more resilient energy future.
Year
Source: a) Numerator - Ministry of Finance b) Denominator - National Accounts Division, NSO, MoSPI Periodicity: Annual
Amount of fossil fuel subsidies per unit of GDP
As a large producer and exporter of textiles India has long championed sustainable textile practices, with our
handloom heritage, natural dyes and traditional crafts embodying zero-waste principles. In alignment with
Mission LiFE, India is taking bold steps to tackle textile waste through policy interventions, industry
collaborations and grassroots initiatives.
• Project SU.RE (Sustainable Resolution): In collaboration with major fashion retailers, this initiative commits
brands to sourcing sustainable raw materials, improving waste management, ensuring ethical supply
chains and overall minimising the industry’s environmental impact.
• Upcycling and Market Access Initiative: This initiative empowers “last-mile upcyclers” by
providing direct market access, eliminating intermediaries and streamlining supply chains.
• Vocal for Local campaign: India is promoting khadi, handloom and organic cotton—sustainable
alternatives that support local livelihoods while reducing the reliance on fast fashion. The Government
of India’s "Vocal for Local" campaign encourages consumers to embrace eco-friendly, traditionally
crafted textiles.
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RE-INVEST is the governments’ flagship event to showcase India’s RE potential to the world and to invite
investment in the sector by initiating multilateral dialogue. It is a global renewable energy investors meet and
expo organised by the Government of India. It is a platform for bringing together global investors, developers,
manufacturers and innovators in the renewable energy sector. The event aims to accelerate the development
and deployment of renewable energy in India and connect the Indian energy stakeholders with the global
investment community.
The 4
th
Edition of the RE-INVEST was organised in 2024 and highlighted India’s commitment towards
renewable energy. India committed to 540 GW of RE by 2030 from states/UTs. Financial institutions
committed investments of $386 billion and RE manufacturers committed to 340 GW of solar module capacity,
240 GW of solar cell capacity, 22 GW of wind capacity and 10 GW of electrolyser capacity.
83
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138
SUSTAINABLE TOURISM
Environmental sustainability and socio-cultural
sustainability are the two key pillars in the National
Strategy for Sustainable Tourism. In line with the
strategy, the Travel for LiFE programme has been
initiated to promote sustainable tourism in the country
and to encourage tourists and tourism businesses to
adopt sustainable tourism practices. In addition, the
Swadesh Darshan Scheme has been revamped as
Swadesh Darshan 2.0 (SD 2.0) with the objective to
develop sustainable and responsible tourism
destinations following a tourist and destination centric
approach. The Scheme encourages adoption of
principles of sustainable tourism including
environmental sustainability, socio-cultural
sustainability and economic sustainability.
4 F W F S B M D J U J F T B S F S J T J O H U P U I F D I B M M F O H F C Z B E P Q U J O H ø [ F S P X B T U F T U S B U F H J F T U S B O T G P S N J O H D P N N V O J U J F T B O E I P V T J O H T P D J F U J F T J O U P N P E F M T P G T V T U B J O B C M F M J W J O H 8 J U I P W F S ø U P O O F T P G X B T U F ø Q S P D F T T F E E B J M Z B O E ø X B S E T ø Q S B D U J D J O H E P P S U P E P P S D P M M F D U J P O B O E T F H S F H B U J P O * O E J B T V S C B O X B T U F N B O B H F N F O U F G G P S U T are equally commendable. Zero-waste housing societies are playing a critical role in these advancements, reducing waste generation and fostering environmental consciousness. They exemplify the power of community-driven initiatives in transforming waste management across India.
In Navi Mumbai, the Seawood Estate NRI Cooperative Housing Society, with 1,500 residents, has emerged
as a leader in zero-waste practices. The society generates around 1,000 kg of waste daily—600 kg of dry
waste and 450 kg of wet waste. While dry waste is managed by the local municipal corporation, wet waste is
processed on-site, producing approximately 50 kg of compost per day. The society also operates a Sewage
Treatment Plant (STP) with a capacity of 105 kilolitres per day, using treated water to maintain green spaces.
In preparation for the monsoon season, the society has enhanced cleanliness efforts, including regular
inspections and awareness drives.
Further south in Calicut, Kerala, the Rock Way Residents’ Association has implemented 100% waste
segregation in its 96 households. The society generates over 3,000 kg of waste per month, with bio-waste
converted into energy through biogas plants or composted for household gardens. Tools like Bokashi
buckets and Geebin Multi-Layer Aerobic Kitchen Compost Bins are used to produce over 1,500 kg of
compost each month. To ensure hygiene during the monsoon season the society collaborates with the
Haritha Karma Sena for waste management and undertakes pre-monsoon cleaning efforts.
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139
WAY FORWARD
Key to India’s progress towards Sustainable
Development Goal 12 (SDG 12) is to enhance the
adoption of advanced recycling technologies, which
are essential to transforming waste management
systems and improving recovery rates. More
investment in advanced recycling technologies is
needed as adoption of emerging technologies can
transform waste management systems, thereby
improving recovery rates.
India is prioritising the adoption of advanced
recycling technologies to modernise waste
management and enhance material recovery.
Strengthening collaboration across the entire value
chain is essential to optimise resource use, promote
circular production models and develop robust
markets for recycled materials. Equally important is
increasing consumer awareness and driving
behavioural change through sustained campaigns
that incentivise recycling and encourage sustainable
consumption patterns.
India remains committed to working towards building
a circular economy that not only supports
environmental sustainability but also offers significant
economic opportunities. With a projected market
value of $2 trillion and the potential to create 10 million
jobs by 2050, advancing circularity presents a
powerful pathway for inclusive growth.
84
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13
GOAL
Climate
Action
SDG 13 (Climate Action) aims to take urgent
measures to combat climate change and its effects.
This goal encompasses efforts to address and
mitigate the impacts of climate change. The world is
witnessing rising sea levels, extreme weather
conditions and increasing concentrations of
greenhouse gases, threatening lives, particularly in
coastal areas. With the continuous rise in greenhouse
gas emissions, there is a need for ambitious plans
and accelerated actions for both mitigation and
adaptation to climate change impacts. This includes
access to finance and enhanced capacities. Goal 13
emphasises building capacity to mitigate and adapt
to climate-related hazards and integrating these
measures into national policies. It focuses not only on
early warning systems but also on reducing impacts.
Moreover, it highlights the importance of partnerships
and commitment among nations to achieve these
objectives since the causes and effects of climate
change transcend national boundaries.
India’s National Action Plan for Climate Change
(NAPCC) comprises national missions in specific
areas of solar energy, enhanced energy efficiency,
water, agriculture, Himalayan ecosystem, sustainable
habitat, green India, human health and strategic
knowledge on climate change. This plan aims to
achieve India’s developmental objectives with a focus
on reducing the emission intensity of its economy.
India successfully achieved its pre-2020 goal of
reducing emission intensity and is now implementing
programmes to meet its post- 2020 targets. The
Government also remains committed to creating
disaster-resilient societies and these efforts have
significantly reduced casualties from disastrous
events over the years.
INDIA’S CLIMATE TARGETS
AND ACTION PLANS
There is an urgent need for decisive action to combat
climate change, a challenge that is no longer a distant
threat but an immediate reality affecting lives,
economies and the future of the planet. Recognising
India's responsibility as one of the world's
fastest-growing economies, the country is committed
to balancing sustainable development with global
climate change mitigation efforts.
India’s climate action is guided by its updated
Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC)
85
and the
long-term strategy to reach net-zero by 2070 and it
cuts across various sectors of the economy. As a
party to the United Nations Framework Convention on
Climate Change (UNFCCC) and its Paris Agreement,
India submitted its first Nationally Determined
Contribution (NDC)
86
in the year 2015, for the period
2021 to 2030. In August 2022, India updated its NDC
according to which the target to reduce emissions
intensity of its GDP has been enhanced to 45 percent
by 2030 from 2005 level. Likewise, the target on
cumulative electric power installed capacity from
non-fossil fuel-based energy resources has been
enhanced to 50% by 2030. India also formulated and
submitted its Long-Term Low Greenhouse Gas
Emission Development Strategies (LT-LEDS) to
UNFCCC in November 2022. LT-LEDS involves seven
key strategic transitions, namely: (i) Low carbon
development of electricity systems consistent with
development; (ii) Developing an integrated, efficient,
inclusive low-carbon transport system; (iii) Promoting
adaptation in urban design, energy and
material-efficiency in buildings, and sustainable
urbanisation; (iv) Promoting economy-wide
decoupling of growth from emissions and
development of an efficient, innovative low-emission
J O E V T U S J B M T Z T U F N W $ 0 ø S F N P W B M B O E S F M B U F E
engineering solutions; (vi) Enhancing Forest and
vegetation cover consistent with socio-economic and
ecological considerations and (vii) Economic and
financial aspects of low-carbon development and
Long-Term Transition to Net-Zero by 2070.
87
5 I F ø / B U J P O B M " D U J P O 1 M B O P O $ M J N B U F $ I B O H F
/ " 1 $ $ ø Q S P W J E F T U I F P W F S B S D I J O H G S B N F X P S L G P S B M M
climate actions and comprises missions in specific
areas of solar energy, enhanced energy efficiency,
sustainable habitat, water, sustaining Himalayan
ecosystems, Green India, sustainable agriculture,
human health and strategic knowledge for climate
change.
India has progressively continued the process of
decoupling economic growth from GHG emissions.
# F U X F F O ø B O E * O E J B T F N J T T J P O J O U F O T J U Z P G
Gross Domestic Product (GDP) reduced by 36% as
against the updated NDC target of 45% by 2030.
During 2005 to 2021, additional carbon sink of 2.29
C J M M J P O U P O O F T P G $ 0 ø F R V J W B M F O U I B T C F F O D S F B U F E
against a target of 2.5-3 billion tonnes of carbon sink
through additional tree and forest cover by 2030
88
. By
February 2025, the share of non-fossil sources in the
installed electricity generation capacity was 47.37%
against the updated target of 50% by 2030
89
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Despite India's very low contribution to historical
emissions and to the current levels of global
emissions, India has taken several climate actions to
S F G M F D U F R V J U Z B O E U I F Q S J O D J Q M F P G D P N N P O C V U
differentiated responsibilities and respective
capabilities in the light of different national
circumstances and in the context of sustainable
development and efforts to eradicate poverty, as
enshrined in the United Nations Framework
Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and its
Paris Agreement.
Thirty-four States/UTs have prepared and some have
updated their State Action Plan on Climate Change
(SAPCC) in line with NAPCC addressing
region-specific vulnerabilities such as extreme
weather events (floods, droughts) and shifting
monsoon patterns. These SAPCCs outline
sector-specific and cross-sectoral priority actions,
including adaptation and climate resilient
infrastructure.
India has developed various sector-specific strategies
to strengthen its climate goals. These goals include: O Energy Sector: Investments in renewable energy
sources like solar, wind, and biomass, alongside
the implementation of smart grids and energy
storage.
O Transportation: Promotion of electric vehicles (EVs)
and enhancement of public transportation
systems.
O Agriculture: Focus on climate-resilient crops,
improved irrigation and sustainable farming
practices.
O Urban Development: Encouragement of
sustainable urban planning, green building
practices and waste management initiatives.
O Water Resources: Promotion of water conservation,
rainwater harvesting and enhanced river basin
management.
O Disaster Management: Strengthening resilience
against climate-induced disasters through
improved early warning systems and community
preparedness.
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O National Solar Mission: Aims to promote solar energy technologies and achieve 100 GW of solar power
capacity by 2022. This mission has propelled solar energy growth, with installed capacity rising from 9.01
GW in 2016 to 97.86 GW in 2025.
90
O National Wind Energy Mission: Focuses on expanding wind energy capacity and encouraging
innovation in wind technology.
O National Mission for Energy Efficiency: Seeks to enhance energy efficiency through programmes such
as the Perform, Achieve and Trade (PAT) scheme.
O National Mission on Sustainable Habitat: Aims to promote energy efficiency in buildings, urban planning
and waste management.
O National Water Mission: ' P D V T F T P O X B U F S D P O T F S W B U J P O B O E F R V J U B C M F E J T U S J C V U J P O B E E S F T T J O H U I F
impacts of climate change on water resources.
O National Mission for Sustaining the Himalayan Ecosystem: Works to protect the fragile Himalayan
ecosystem through research and monitoring.
O National Mission on Agricultural Adaptation: Aims to build resilience in agriculture by promoting
sustainable practices and crop diversification.
O National Mission on Green India: Seeks to increase forest cover, restore degraded ecosystems and
enhance ecosystem services.
AT A GLANCE: EIGHT KEY MISSIONS OF NATIONAL
ACTION PLAN FOR CLIMATE CHANGE
REDUCING CARBON
EMISSIONS
The Government amended the Energy Conservation
Act in the year 2022 to facilitate the development of
D B S C P O N B S L F U T J O U I F D P V O U S Z 4 V C T F R V F O U M Z V O E F S
the Act, the Government has notified the Carbon
Credit Trading Scheme (CCTS), which provides for
two mechanisms, namely compliance mechanism
and offset mechanism. In the compliance
N F D I B O J T N U I F P C M J H B U F E F O U J U J F T B S F S F R V J S F E U P
comply with the prescribed GHG emission intensity
reduction norms in each compliance cycle of CCTS.
The obligated entities which reduce their GHG
emission intensity below the prescribed GHG
emission intensity are eligible for issuance of Carbon
Credit Certificates. Under the offset mechanism the
non-obligated entities can register their projects for
GHG emission reduction or removal or avoidance for
issuance of Carbon Credit Certificates.
A plan has also been developed to smoothly shift
energy-intensive sectors and Designated Consumers
(DCs) from the Perform, Achieve, and Trade (PAT)
Scheme to the compliance mechanism under the
CCTS. This plan ensures continuity, consistency and
alignment with national climate goals while avoiding
duplication of targets. To initiate the transition the
Government has identified nine energy-intensive
sectors for inclusion under the compliance
mechanism of the CCTS, namely Aluminium, Cement,
Steel, Paper, Chlor-Alkali, Fertiliser, Refinery,
Petrochemical and Textile. Under the offset
mechanism ten sectors have been approved, which
include energy, industries, waste handling and
disposal, agriculture, forestry, transport, construction,
fugitive emissions, solvent use and Carbon Capture
Utilisation and Storage.
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IMPROVING DISASTER
RESILIENCE AND DISASTER
RISK REDUCTION
The Government has adopted a holistic approach to
disaster risk reduction to address the whole range of
issues in the entire disaster management cycle,
ranging from preparedness, response, capacity
building, recovery and reconstruction and mitigation
by the use of innovative methods, technology and
J O U F S O B U J P O B M D P P Q F S B U J P O ø % V S J O H U I F M B T U G F X Z F B S T ø
India built on its earlier efforts and made significant
progress in disaster risk reduction. States are also
actively developing specific initiatives, for example,
the Government of Himachal Pradesh has started the
Climate Resilient Villages (CRV) programme under
which it has identified 100 climate sensitive villages.
The focus is on reducing disaster risk, benefit in
conservation of crops, food safety and empowering
rural communities.
The National Landslide Risk Mitigation Programme
has also been approved which includes
implementation of landslide risk mitigation activities /
projects in 15 States. Under the National Cyclone Risk
Mitigation Project (NCRMP), early warning systems
have been installed in the Coastal States, which
helped in alert dissemination to the coastal
community during the recent cyclones. A web-based
Dynamic Composite Risk Atlas and Decision Support
System (Web-DCRA and DSS tool) for cyclone risk
mitigation and response planning has been
E F W F M P Q F E ø 5 I F U P P M I B T C F F O T V D D F T T G V M M Z V T F E J O
recent cyclones such as Biparjoy (June, 2023) and
Michaung (December, 2023)
Aapda Mitra Scheme has been implemented and
1,00,000 community volunteers have been trained in
disaster rescue in 350 multi-hazards disaster prone
E J T U S J D U T D P W F S J O H B M M 4 U B U F T 6 5 T ø & B D I W P M V O U F F S o
" B Q E B . J U S B P S " B Q E B 4 B L I J o J T H J W F O U X P X F F L
intense training in disaster response (relevant to their
B S F B P G P Q F S B U J P O T F R V J Q Q F E X J U I B O & N F S H F O D Z
Responder Kit (ERK) and provided insurance cover
for five years. In addition, each district is provided an
Emergency Essential Resource Reserve (EERR) for
the use of Aapda Mitra during disasters.
Common Alerting Protocol (CAP) based Integrated
Alert System has been implemented for dissemination
of geo targeted early warnings/alerts related to
disasters to the citizens of India for all 36 States/UTs
using various disseminating medium like SMS, TV,
Radio, Indian Railways, Coastal Sirens, Cell
broadcast, Internet (RSS feed and Browser
Notification), Satellite Receiver of GAGAN and NavIC
F U D U I S P V H I J O U F H S B U J P O P G B M M " M F S U J O H " H F O D J F T ø 5 I F
alerts are sent to geo-targeted areas in regional
languages. There is a web-based dashboard to
disaster managers for approving/editing alerts and
choosing media for dissemination.
India has developed an Indigenous climate model,
namely the IITM-Earth System Model (IITM-ESM),
which provides reliable future projections of Indian
monsoon rainfall and is used in addressing climate
variability and change issues across the region. The
model is the first from India to contribute to the
Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC)
Sixth Assessment Report (IPCC-AR6). A number of
mobile applications such as Damini, Mausam,
Meghdoot etc. have been developed for timely
dissemination of early warnings and alerts to the
common people / farmers.
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146
MISSION MAUSAM: ENHANCING WEATHER AND
CLIMATE RESILIENCE FOR INDIA
Recognising the critical need for accurate weather forecasting, especially in a country where agriculture is a
Q S J N B S Z M J W F M J I P P E U I F ( P W F S O N F O U ø B Q Q S P W F E ø . J T T J P O . B V T B N B O J O J U J B U J W F E F T J H O F E U P N B L F U I F O B U J P O ø
A 8 F B U I F S 3 F B E Z ø B O E ø A $ M J N B U F 4 N B S U * U B J N T U P J N Q S P W F X F B U I F S B O E D M J N B U F T F S W J D F T F O T V S J O H U J N F M Z B O E
precise observation, modelling, and forecasting information for multiple sectors, including agriculture,
E J T B T U F S N B O B H F N F O U B O E S V S B M E F W F M P Q N F O U 5 I S P V H I ø D P M M B C P S B U J P O ø X J U I O B U J P O B M B O E J O U F S O B U J P O B M S F T F B S D I
J O T U J U V U J P O T B D B E F N J B B O E J O E V T U S Z . J T T J P O . B V T B N B T Q J S F T U P ø S F W P M V U J P O J T F ø * O E J B h T X F B U I F S B O E D M J N B U F
T F S W J D F T X I J M F ø D F N F O U J O H J U T H M P C B M M F B E F S T I J Q ø J O U I J T D S J U J D B M G J F M E 5 I F J O J U J B U J W F M F W F S B H F T ø D V U U J O H F E H F
U F D I O P M P H Z J O D M V E J O H ø I J H I S F T P M V U J P O N P E F M T B O E T V Q F S D P N Q V U J O H T Z T U F N T ø U P Q S P W J E F ø B D D V S B U F G P S F D B T U T P O
various timescales—ranging from short-term (hours) to seasonal predictions.
Achievements include:
O 0 W F S ø % P Q Q M F S 8 F B U I F S 3 B E B S T ø I B W F C F F O J O T U B M M F E B D S P T T * O E J B U P T U S F O H U I F O S F B M U J N F N P O J U P S J O H
capabilities.
O 5 I F ø . B V T B N ø N P C J M F B Q Q ø Q S P W J E F T M P D B U J P O T Q F D J G J D ø X F B U I F S G P S F D B T U T G P S D J U J F T ø J O * O E J B
O 4 F B T P O B M Q S F E J D U J P O N P E F M T ø I B W F T I P X O T J H O J G J D B O U J N Q S P W F N F O U V O E F S U I F ø / B U J P O B M . P O T P P O . J T T J P O
framework.
O 4 Q F D J B M J T F E Q S P H S B N N F T P O V S C B O G M P P E J O H Q S F E J D U J P O ø B O E ø D Z D M P O F U S B D L J O H I B W F C F F O J O J U J B U F E
During India’s 2023 G20 Presidency, a Working Group on Disaster Risk Reduction was established in which
five priority areas of disaster risk reduction were identified: global coverage of early warning systems;
disaster and climate resilient infrastructure; financing framework for disaster risk reduction; disaster response
system; and ecosystem-based approach to DRR
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147
WAY FORWARD
" D I J F W J O H D M J N B U F U B S H F U T X J M M S F R V J S F C V J M E J O H
stronger partnerships among government, industry,
academia and civil society to effectively mobilise
resources, share knowledge and scale up solutions.
Enhancing these collaborations will enable
coordinated and impactful climate action across
all levels.
Innovation remains central to India’s climate strategy,
with advancements needed in renewable energy,
sustainable agriculture and green technologies. The
Government’s commitment to supporting research
and development is a positive foundation, but
continued efforts are necessary to accelerate the
translation of innovations into practical, scalable
solutions that can drive the country’s transition to a
low-carbon economy.
Investing in resilient infrastructure today is critical for
securing a better tomorrow. Resilience must be
integrated not only into the design and construction of
new infrastructure but also into post-disaster
rebuilding efforts, ensuring that communities are
better prepared to withstand future climate shocks.
Carbon Capture Utilisation and Storage (CCUS) holds
a vital role in decarbonising India’s industrial and
power sectors. It is key to promoting sustainable
development and growth, particularly by enabling the
production of clean energy and products that support
the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat. Scaling up CCUS
U F D I O P M P H J F T X J M M S F R V J S F G P D V T F E J O W F T U N F O U
supportive policies and capacity building.
' P S D M J N B U F B E B Q U B U J P O * O E J B B J N T U P G P M M P X B ø
multi-faceted approach tailored to the regional
specificities. It includes inter alia, policy initiatives,
sector-specific strategies, development of resilient
infrastructure, research and development and
securing financial resources for adaptation efforts.
Additionally, the ongoing work on the preparation of
* O E J B T ø / B U J P O B M " E B Q U B U J P O 1 M B O / " 1 ø G P D V T F T P O
developing a comprehensive and inclusive NAP that
aligns with sustainable development goals and
ensures climate resilience for all regions and
sectors.
91
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148
14
GOAL
Life Below
Water
SDG 14 (Life Below Water) recognises the importance
of the oceans and marine ecosystems in sustaining
life on Earth, supporting livelihoods and regulating the
climate. SDG 14 seeks to tackle the challenges faced
by marine life, including threats from marine and
nutrient pollution, resource depletion, overfishing,
habitat destruction, climate change, degradation and
loss of biodiversity and ocean acidification, all
primarily caused by human actions. The goal
advocates for corrective measures, such as
effectively regulating harvesting, overfishing, and
protecting marine and coastal ecosystems. Another
important facet of this goal is also to increase
scientific knowledge to improve ocean health and
provide access to marine resources and markets for
small-scale artisanal fishers.
India is a maritime country and has wide water
resources lying both in inland and marine sectors
which are being utilised for capture and culture
fisheries. The Indian fisheries sector is set in a unique
and diverse set of ecosystems ranging from the
pristine waters of the Himalayas to the sprawling
Indian Ocean. The fisheries biodiversity of the country
encompasses a wide spectrum of physical and
biological components that support the livelihoods of
millions of people. Several initiatives have been
undertaken to protect marine and coastal ecosystems
including mangroves and coral reefs. These efforts
have contributed to the growth in the maximum
sustainable yield in fishing over the years.
TRANSFORMING THE
FISHERIES SECTOR
The fisheries sector plays an important role in the
Indian economy. It contributes to the national income,
exports, food and nutritional security and in
employment generation. This sector is also a principal
source of livelihood for a large section of the
economically underprivileged population of the
country, especially in the coastal areas. India has
C F D P N F U I F ø O E M B S H F T U G J T I Q S P E V D F S
O E M B S H F T U
aquaculture nation and the largest producer of
shrimp
93
, taking Brand India from ‘Local to Global’.
The fisheries sector in the country continues to be
among the most critical and fastest growing
agriculture allied sectors in the country. The sector
has exhibited strong growth of about 8% per year on
average with aquaculture growing at an annual
average of more than 10%. The fisheries sector has
been recognized as a ‘Sunrise Sector’ and has
demonstrated an outstanding double-digit average
B O O V B M H S P X U I P G T J O D F X J U I B S F D P S E
G J T I Q S P E V D U J P O P G M B L I U P O T B U U I F F O E P G ' :
94
India is at the forefront of transforming the fisheries
sector and bringing about economic revolution
through the Blue Revolution in the country. To
enhance the economic resilience of the coastal
communities impacted by climate change, the
Government has launched the Pradhan Mantri Matsya
4 B N Q B E B : P K B O B 1 . . 4 : 5 I J T U S B O T G P S N B U J W F
scheme for the fisheries sector and the welfare of
fishermen has identified 100 coastal fishermen
villages situated close to the coastline as Climate
3 F T J M J F O U $ P B T U B M ' J T I F S N F O 7 J M M B H F T
The activities
in the identified coastal fishermen villages are
need-based facilities, including common facilities like
fish drying yards, fish processing centres, fish
N B S L F U T G J T I J O H K F U U J F T J D F Q M B O U T D P M E T U P S B H F T B O E
emergency rescue facilities. The government is also
promoting climate resilient livelihoods like
aquaculture, especially the mariculture of seaweed,
food and ornamental fishes, bivalves etc. Additionally,
it is providing funding support for research,
technology development and capacity-building to
enhance inland and marine aquaculture.
Implementation of ReALCraft, a web-based portal for
registration and licensing of fishing vessels, issuance
of biometric identity cards to marine fishers and
vessel communication and support system supported
V O E F S U I F 1 . . 4 : J T I F M Q J O H J O Q S F W F O U J P O P G J M M F H B M
unreported and unregulated fishing.
96
CONSERVING AND
RESTORING COASTAL AND
MARINE HABITATS
To ensure long-term viability of the sector and to
address the issues related to climate change,
protection and restoration of critical habitat, the
Central Government is working closely with the State
Governments and environmental agencies. These
efforts include establishment of artificial reefs along
the entire coastline of India, conduct of sea ranching,
promotion of seaweed farming, implementation of
V O J G P S N G J T I J O H C B O G P S E B Z T E V S J O H U I F N B K P S G J T I
breeding period and installation of Turtle Excluder
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Devices (TEDs) in trawl nets for conservation of turtles
F U D ' V S U I F S B E W J T P S J F T I B W F C F F O J T T V F E U P
4 U B U F T 6 5 T U P U B L F N F B T V S F T U P Q S F W F O U K V W F O J M F
fishing such as implementation of mesh size
regulations and minimum legal size of fish under their
. B S J O F ' J T I J O H 3 F H V M B U J P O " D U T . ' 3 " T U P F O T V S F
sustainable and responsible fishing practices.
The Union Government also provides financial
assistance to coastal States to undertake activities
related to conservation and management of coastal
ecosystems such as mangrove plantation, shelterbelt
plantation, coral transplantation and enhancement of
livelihood security of coastal communities including
capacity building.
5 I F J O T U B M M B U J P O P G ø " S U J G J D J B M 3 F F G T ø J O * O E J B J T Q B S U P G U I F
ongoing efforts to restore marine ecosystems,
enhance biodiversity and support sustainable fishing
practices. Artificial reefs are engineering interventions
designed to rehabilitate and/or enhance natural
habitats, increase productivity and manage aquatic
resources, including habitat improvement. India’s
M B S H F T U D P S B M U S B O T M P D B U J P O Q S P K F D U J O W P M W F E S F M P D B U J O H
D P S B M T G S P N J O U F S U J E B M B O E T V C U J E B M [ P O F T U P
T V J U B C M F T J U F T B S P V O E / B S B S B ( V K B S B U
Additionally,
D P S B M D F N F O U G S B N F T B S U J G J D J B M S F F G T I B W F C F F O
strategically placed to ensure the long-term
preservation of marine biodiversity. 937 artificial reef
units across 11 coastal states and Union Territories
have been sanctioned under the Pradhan Mantri
. B U T Z B 4 B N Q B E B : P K B O B 1 . . 4 : U P Q S P N P U F U I F
restoration of aquatic life.
The Government has taken a number of steps to
protect and enhance mangrove forests in coastal
States/Union Territories through regulatory and
promotional measures. This includes the Mangrove
Initiative for Shoreline Habitats & Tangible Incomes
(MISHTI), a programme launched by the Government
P G * O E J B J O J O D P M M B C P S B U J P O X J U I D P B T U B M 4 U B U F T
and Union Territories to restore and promote
mangroves for preserving and enhancing the
sustainability of the coastal ecosystem and habitats.
5 I F P C K F D U J W F P G . * 4 ) 5 * J T ø U P S F T U P S F B G G P S F T U B U J P O P G
N B O H S P W F T ø D P W F S J O H B Q Q S P Y J N B U F M Z T R L N
spreading across 9 coastal States and 4 UTs.
98
* O E J B h T U P U B M N B O H S P W F D P W F S T U B O E T B U L N D P O T U J U V U J O H ø ø P G U I F O B U J P O T H F P H S B Q I J D B M B S F B 5 I F S F I B T C F F O O F U J O D S F B T F P G ø 4 R L N ø ø J O . B O H S P W F D P W F S B S F B P G U I F D P V O U S Z J O B T D P N Q B S F E U P B O E O F U J O D S F B T F P G ø 4 R L N ø C F U X F F O B O E
99
8 F T U # F O H B M ø I P M E T U I F M B S H F T U T I B S F P G U I F D P V O U S Z h T N B O H S P W F G P S F T U T B D D P V O U J O H G P S ø ø P G U I F U P U B M D P W F S G P M M P X F E C Z ø ( V K B S B U ø B O E U I F ø " O E B N B O / J D P C B S * T M B O E T / P U B C M Z ø ( V K B S B U ø I B T S F D P S E F E B O J N Q S F T T J W F J O D S F B T F P G ø T R L N ø J O N B O H S P W F D P W F S C F U X F F O B O E B U U S J C V U F E U P large-scale plantations, community participation and public-private partnerships.
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CONTROLLING MARINE
POLLUTION
5 I F / B U J P O B M 1 P M J D Z P O . B S J O F ' J T I F S J F T Q S P W J E F T U I F
guiding principles of conservation and optimum
utilisation of fisheries resources. The policy also
highlights the marine environment and pollution
issues including micro-plastic and ghost nets. The
policy supports regulatory mechanisms to control
pollutants from land and sea-based sources, which
can be effectively controlled and the ecosystems
monitored for pollution related aspects. To combat
marine plastic pollution particularly from fishing and
maritime sectors, the Government of India has been
actively engaged in the global efforts like Glolitter
1 B S U O F S T I J Q 1 S P K F D U B O E 3 F H M J U U F S 1 S P K F D U C P U I P G X I J D I
B S F K P J O U M Z J N Q M F N F O U F E C Z U I F * O U F S O B U J P O B M . B S J U J N F
0 S H B O J [ B U J P O ' P P E B O E " H S J D V M U V S F 0 S H B O J [ B U J P O P G
U I F 6 O J U F E / B U J P O T 5 I F T F Q S P K F D U T G P D V T P O
preventing and reducing Marine Plastic Litter from
sea-based sources with an emphasis on addressing
B C B O E P O F E M P T U P S E J T D B S E F E G J T I J O H H F B S " - % ' (
and wastes from ships. As a Lead Partnering Country
J O U I F ( M P M J U U F S 1 S P K F D U * O E J B I B T Q V C M J T I F E J U T / B U J P O B M
Action Plan, which outlines strategic measures to
reduce Marine Plastic Litter from Sea-based Sources.
To address the issues of destructive fishing the
Government of India has banned fishing methods
such as pair or bull trawling and the use of LED or
artificial lights for fishing in the EEZ area.
REGIONAL MARINE POLLUTION RESPONSE CENTRE
* O * O E J B F T U B C M J T I F E U I F 3 F H J P O B M . B S J O F 1 P M M V U J P O 3 F T Q P O T F $ F O U S F B G J S T U P G J U T L J O E G B D J M J U Z G P S D P P S E J O B U J O H S F T Q P O T F B H B J O T U N B S J O F Q P M M V U J P O Q B S U J D V M B S M Z P J M B O E D I F N J D B M Q P M M V U J P O J O X B U F S T B E K P J O J O H U I F D P B T U B M T U B U F T J O U I F * O E J B O 0 D F B O 3 F H J P O * U I B T B O & N F S H F O D Z 3 F T Q P O T F $ F O U S F X I J D I J T N B O O F E Y C Z Indian Coast Guard personnel to monitor marine oil pollution incidents. The Centre imparts training in Pollution response techniques to various organisations such as Ports, Oil Handling agencies, Government organisations and private participants. It also trains personnel from other countries in combating oil pollution at sea. The practical training involves actual deployment of various oil handling equipment for maximum exposure to real time oil spill scenarios.
LEVERAGING
TECHNOLOGIES TO
PROTECT MARINE SYSTEMS
AND TAP MARINE BIO
RESOURCES
The Government has launched several programmes
using advanced technologies like satellite imagery to
manage and protect coral reef ecosystems. Ocean
Services, Modelling, Application, Resources and
Technology (O-SMART) encompassing
oceanographic research activities is being
J N Q M F N F O U F E X J U I U I F P C K F D U J W F T G P S Q S P W J E J O H
forecast and services based on the continuous
observation of our oceans, development of
technologies and exploratory surveys for sustainable
harnessing of our oceanic resources (both living and
non-living) and promotion of front-ranking research in
ocean sciences. The scheme encompasses seven
sub-schemes namely Ocean Technology, Ocean
Modelling and Advisory Services (OMAS), Ocean
Observation Network (OON), Ocean Non-Living
Resources, Marine Living Resources and Ecology
(MLRE), Coastal Research and Operation and
. B J O U F O B O D F P G 3 F T F B S D I 7 F T T F M T ø
4 F W F S B M N B K P S N J M F T U P O F T I B W F C F F O B D I J F W F E
through the activities of the scheme, the most
significant is India's recognition as Pioneer Investor
with International Seabed Authority for conducting
extensive research on deep sea mining of Poly
Metallic Nodules and hydrothermal sulphides in the
allotted area of the Indian Ocean. The technology
development for desalination using low temperature
thermal desalination and installation of such facilities
in Lakshadweep islands is also a significant
achievement. Moreover, India's ocean related
activities are now extended from the Arctic to
Antarctic region covering large ocean space which
have been monitored through in-situ and satellite-
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based observation. India has taken a leadership role
in implementing the Indian Ocean component of the
Global Ocean Observing System.
Considering the importance of collection of data on
coastal processes towards coastal protection
measures a new component Coastal Management
Information System (CMIS) has been initiated under
the Development of Water Resources Information
System scheme. CMIS is a data collection activity
carried out to collect near shore coastal data which
can be used in planning, design, construction and
maintenance of site specific coastal protection
structures at vulnerable Coastal stretches.
$ P S B M 3 F F G J O T J U V 0 C T F S W B U J P O / F U X P S L ø $ 3 F 0 /
programme focuses on long-term coral reef health
monitoring, calcification rates and ocean
acidification, based on the deployment of Data Buoy
and Automated Weather Stations at various Coral
Reef sites along the Indian Coast including Andaman
and Nicobar and Lakshadweep Islands. NCSCM has
mapped 1439 square km of the coral reefs of India.
The Indian National Centre for Ocean Information
Services provides early warnings of potential coral
bleaching using satellite data, helping to protect coral
ecosystems and support climate resilience efforts.
The Coral Bleaching Alert System (CBAS) assesses
thermal stress accumulated in coral environments
based on sea surface temperature. Information
derived from CBAS is disseminated every three days,
including data on hotspots, the degree of heating
weeks and time series products.
WAY FORWARD
India faces several specific challenges in making
progress on SDG 14, each requiring targeted action
to ensure sustainable marine ecosystems and
livelihoods.
Small-scale and traditional fishers face vulnerability
due to declining catches, climate impacts and
competition from mechanised fleets. Many are forced
to alter their fishing methods or seek alternative
livelihoods. Supporting these communities through
capacity building, financial inclusion, alternative
livelihood programmes and access to sustainable
fishing technologies is essential to enhance their
resilience and well-being.
Public-private partnerships present an opportunity for
advancing sustainable fisheries, improving market
access and developing marine infrastructure. The
country is focusing on fostering collaboration
between the government, industry, academia and
M P D B M D P N N V O J U J F T ø U P E F W F M P Q B S P C V T U B O E
sustainable blue economy.
A significant challenge facing India’s marine and
coastal sector is the increasing frequency of
cyclones, the impact of marine heatwaves, coastal
erosion and rising sea levels. These climate-related
threats, combined with other issues, place
considerable strain on the sector despite numerous
government schemes aimed at its development.
These factors not only threaten the livelihoods of
coastal communities but also undermine the
sustainability and resilience of marine resources.
Therefore, the Government is continuing to further
strengthen the resilience of India’s coastlines and
developing comprehensive risk management
strategies.
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GOAL
Life On
Land15
Goal 15 underscores the critical importance of
biodiversity as humanity’s life - support system.
However, the relentless depletion of forests around
the world, coupled with an alarming rate of species
extinction and stagnation in safeguarding key
biodiversity areas, jeopardises the delicate balance
of ecosystems. To address the pressing global
environmental challenges and crises, including
climate change, biodiversity loss and pollution, as
well as desertification, land and soil degradation,
drought and deforestation, it is imperative to intensify
efforts to fulfil our global environmental and
biodiversity commitments. It also seeks to promote
fair and equitable sharing of the benefits arising from
the utilisation of genetic resources, and prevent
poaching and trafficking of protected species of flora
and fauna.
The total forest cover of the country is 7,15,267.67 5
square kilometers which is 21.76% of the geographical
area of the country.
100
It shows an increase of 156.41
Sq. Km in the forest cover at national level as
compared to the previous assessment (See Figure
45). There is improvement in soil health (87.16 % of
shallow to deep soil as against 83.53 % in 2013). The
load of moderate to heavy grazing has come down to
35.79 % in 2023 as compared to 41.04 % in 2013.
Biotic influences on forests have also come down to
26.66 % (2023) from 31.28% in 2013. All these
indicate improvement in floral biodiversity as well as
improved surroundings for faunal biodiversity.
Several initiatives are contributing in this regard, such
as Forest Fire Prevention and Management, Green
India Mission, Nagar Van Yojana, Development of
Wildlife Habitat (DWH), Project Elephant and Tiger, as
well as through the CAMPA funds, etc. This is a
reflection of India’s successful efforts to balance
development priorities, while simultaneously
addressing environmental conservation.
21.10
21.20
21.30
21.40
21.50
21.60
21.70
21.80
2015 2017 2019 2021
Percentage
Figure 45: Forest cover as a percentage of total geographical area (%)
Source: Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change
Year
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157
! … z ³ 0 « à X z J X … ( X à 0 « ³ X Á ç
z ( X z ! « 0 ³ X z J I … « 0 ³ Á
! … à 0 «
India released its updated National Biodiversity
4 U S B U F H Z B O E " D U J P O 1 M B O / # 4 " 1 B U U I F U I ø N F F U J O H
of the Conference of Parties (COP 16) to the
Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) in Cali,
Colombia in October 2024. The updated NBSAP
aligned with the KMGBF is a vital roadmap to address
the strategies to halt and reverse biodiversity loss by
2030, with a longer-term vision of living in harmony
with nature by 2050. India had adopted the
‘whole-of-government’ and ‘whole-of-society’
approach in updating its NBSAP. The updated NBSAP
acknowledges environmental challenges and outlines
strategies to address them through ecosystem
restoration, species recovery programmes,
community-driven conservation efforts focusing on the
restoration of degraded ecosystems, the protection of
wetlands, and the sustainable management of marine
and coastal areas.
The updated NBSAP emphasises the adoption of a
transformative approach and focuses on an
ecosystem-based management approach, a
bottom-up approach for implementation,
mainstreaming biodiversity, sectoral integration and
inter-agency cooperation. It also provides an insight
into the current status of biodiversity across India and
trends, therein existing policy and institutional
frameworks, biodiversity expenditure and potential
biodiversity finance solutions.
Biodiversity Conservation Scheme is being implemented as a pilot project at four identified sites namely Nanda Devi, Dehang Debang, Pachamari and Agasthyamalai Biosphere Reserves for a five-year period from the last quarter of 2021. The objective of the scheme is to conserve the diversity and integrity of plants and animals within natural ecosystems; to safeguard genetic diversity of species on which their continuing evolution depends; to provide areas for multi-faceted research and monitoring; to provide facilities for education and training; and to ensure sustainable use of natural resources through most appropriate mechanism for improvement of economic well-being of the local people.
Green India Mission (GIM) aims at increasing the
forest/tree cover and improving the quality of the
existing forest cover; improving ecosystem services
including biodiversity, hydrological services and
carbon sequestration; increasing forest-based
livelihood income of households living in and around
the forests; and enhancing annual CO2
sequestration. The activities under GIM were started
in the FY 2015-16 and so far funds have been
released to 17 States and 1 UT for creation of
plantation/eco-restoration over an area of 155130
hectares. GIM is being implemented on a landscape
approach with the help of Joint Forest Management
Committees (JFMC’s) which includes the
representatives of local communities. It is largely
focusing on the eco-restoration activities (including
plantation) in the vulnerable and degraded
landscapes.
The Government has launched several
schemes/programmes viz. National Afforestation
Programme: A Participatory Approach to Sustainable
Development of Forests, National Action Programme
to Combat Desertification etc. for conservation of
biodiversity, which contribute to the target of
restoration of 26 million hectares of degraded land
and achievement of land degradation neutrality with
focus on sustainable and optimum utilisation of land
resources. This will help in preserving forests and
biodiversity, facilitating conservation of natural
resources and improving carbon sinks. As a
consequence of these and other efforts, forest
biomass in the country is increasing and the
proportion of forests included as protected areas has
been rising (See Figure 46). Government spending on
all forms of environmental protection has also been
rising (See Figure 47).
Since 2014, 59 wetlands have been added to the list
of Ramsar Sites taking the tally to 89 in the country
covering an area of 1.358 million hectares.
101
J … n ÏÓ r n X I 0 … z n z (
158
Source: National Accounts Division, NSO, MoSPI
Figure 46: Progress towards sustainable forest management
Figure 47: Percentage of government spending on environmental
protection to total government expenditure
2015-16 2016-17 2017-18 2018-19 2019-20 2020-21 2021-22 2022-23
60
50
40
30
20
10
0
Expenditure in billions
Government expenditure on Environment Protection
Percentage share of government spending on Environmental protection (rhs)
0.12
0.11
0.10
0.09
0.08
0.07
0.06
0.05
0.04
0.03
0.02
0.01
0.00
Percentage
1000 tonnes
Percentage
Source: FSI, Ministry of Environment Forest and Climate Change
4.7
4.8
4.9
5
5.1
5.2
5.3
2180000
2200000
2220000
2240000
2260000
2280000
2300000
2320000
2340000
2017 2019 2021
Above-ground biomass in forest (1000 tonnes)
Proportion of geographical area under legally established protected areas (in percent, rhs)
Year
Year
J … n ÏÓ r n X I 0 … z n z (
159
0 z R z ! X z J ³ … X n I 0 « Á X n X Á ç
To improve the health of soil, for the past decade, the
Government has been issuing soil health cards to all
farmers in the country. Soil health card provides
information to farmers on nutrient status of their soil
along with recommendation on the appropriate
dosage of nutrients to be applied for improving soil
health and its fertility. The Soil Health Card contains
status of the soil with respect to 12 parameters,
O B N F M Z ø / 1 , 4 . B D S P O V U S J F O U T ; O ' F $ V . O # P
(Micro - nutrients); and pH (Acidity or Basicity), EC
(Electrical Conductivity) and OC (Organic Carbon).
The card also indicates fertiliser recommendations
and soil amendments required for the farm. Soil
samples are taken generally two times in a year after
harvesting of Rabi and Kharif Crop respectively or
when there is no standing crop in the field.
" Q J M P U Q S P K F D U P O ø 4 D I P P M 4 P J M ) F B M U I 1 S P H S B N N F ø I B T
C F F O V O E F S U B L F O J O ø T D I P P M T ø J O S V S B M B S F B T 5 I F B J N
is to make students aware about soil health for
sustainable agriculture practices. Modules for
students from class VI to XII and teachers have been
developed and disseminated and 20 soil health labs
have been set up in these schools. Under the
programme soil samples were collected by school
students and soil testing was also done by students
and SHCs were generated. Students also educated
farmers about the recommendation of soil health
cards for the judicious use of fertilisers and crop
S F D P N N F O E B U J P O T " T P G ' F C S V B S Z ø
T D I P P M T ø B S F J N Q M F N F O U J O H U I F 4 D I P P M 4 P J M ) F B M U I
1 S P H S B N N F X J U I ø T P J M U F T U J O H M B C T ø T F U V Q B O E ø
ø T U V E F O U T F O S P M M F E
102
Á ! k n X z J I … « 0 ³ Á I X « 0
5 I F ø ' P S F T U ' J S F 1 S F W F O U J P O B O E . B O B H F N F O U 4 D I F N F ø
supports states and Union Territories in preventing
and controlling forest fires. The scheme aims to
reduce forest fire incidents and restore productivity in
affected areas. It emphasises the involvement of local
communities in forest protection and contributes to
maintaining environmental stability. Developing a fire
danger rating system and forecasting methods is also
a key objective. The scheme encourages the use of
modern technology, such as Remote Sensing, GPS,
and GIS, to enhance fire prevention efforts.
Additionally, it seeks to improve knowledge about the
impact and behaviour of forest fires. A forest fire
detection system is also in place to detect and share
information about forest fires in near real-time. This
system plays a crucial role in the early detection and
effective management of forest fires across the
country.
Based on a study with the World Bank and
consultations with key national and state stakeholders
a National Action Plan on Forest Fire has also been
developed to minimise forest fires. The plan
comprises taking actions by informing, enabling and
empowering forest fringe communities and
incentivising them to work in tandem with the Forest
Departments. It also comprises reducing the
vulnerability of forests against fire hazards, enhancing
the capabilities of forest personnel and institutions in
fighting fires and speeding up recovery after a fire
F W F O U ø
Kerala has launched the Pachaturuth (Green Spot) initiative under the Haritha Keralam Mission, a pioneering project aims to address climate change, preserve biodiversity and enhance local ecosystems by creating green spaces that serve as carbon sinks. The initiative involves the active participation of various stakeholders, including government departments, environmental organisations and educational institutions, ensuring a collaborative approach to safeguarding Kerala's natural heritage.
¨ ! R Á È « È Á R h J « 0 0 z ³ ¨ … Ái X z X Á X Á X à 0 X z k 0 « n
J … n ÏÓ r n X I 0 … z n z (
160
Figure 48: Protected area as percentage of total geographical area
Source: Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, India
Note: The Convention of Biological Diversity defines a Protected Area as a clearly defined geographical space,
recognised, dedicated and managed through legal or other effective means, to achieve the long-term conservation of
nature with associated ecosystem services and cultural values.
India has launched the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) in 2023 and established a demonstrative step to
conserve 7 wild cats across the globe in the world. Five countries namely India, Nicaragua, Eswatini, Somalia
and Liberia have signed the Framework Agreement (FA) and have become the members of IBCA. The
Framework Agreement is intended to establish IBCA to collectively address common challenges for the
protection and conservation of seven Big Cats in the world. The parties to this agreement shall be guided by the
principles of coordinated action for protection and conservation of seven big cats and seeking the benefits of
collective action under the IBCA.
X z Á 0 « z Á X … z n X J ! Á n n X z ! 0
! … z ³ 0 « à X z J á X n ( n X I 0
R X Á Á ³
Conservation planning in India is based on the
philosophy of identifying and protecting
representative wild habitats across all the
ecosystems. The number of Protected Areas
(includes National Parks, sanctuaries, conservation
reserves or community reserves) in the country, which
stood at 745 in the year 2014 have risen to 1022 in the
year 2024. This accounts for 5.43% of the country’s
total geographic area (See Figure 48). Participation of
people is given more impetus and there has been a
substantial increase in establishment of Community
Reserves. The number of Community Reserves in the
country has increased from 43 in the year 2014 to 220
at the end of 2024.
103
Apart from the protected areas, the country also has
57 tiger reserves notified under the Wild Life
(Protection) Act, 1972 with the prime focus of
conservation of tigers and its habitat. States have also
declared 33 elephant reserves for providing safer
habitats to the elephants. As per All India Tiger
Estimation 2022 report the estimated tiger population
in India is 3,682, which accounts for 70% of wild tiger
population of the World.
4.95
5.00
5.05
5.10
5.15
5.20
5.25
5.30
5.35
5.40
5.45
5.50
2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023
Percentage
Year
J … n ÏÓ r n X I 0 … z n z (
161
á ç I … « á « (
Sustainable management of terrestrial ecosystems is
critical for maintaining biodiversity, supporting
livelihoods and ensuring environmental stability.
Multiple interconnected issues threaten India’s
progress on SDG 15, ranging from habitat loss and
species decline to pressures from urbanisation and
T L J M M H B Q T J O D P O T F S W B U J P O F G G P S U T ø
Forests and plant biodiversity face significant
challenges due to deforestation, land-use changes
and unsustainable agricultural expansion.
Fragmentation of habitats and loss of native plant
species threaten the ecosystem stability. It can also
reduce the availability of medicinal and economically
valuable plants. Tackling these challenges requires
continued promotion of large-scale afforestation and
reforestation programmes focusing on the native
species to restore degraded landscapes. The
Government is continuing to mobilise resources for
afforestation, conservation and sustainable
management through various central and state
schemes.
Rapid urban expansion and intensive agriculture
exert heavy pressure on forests and land resources,
leading to soil degradation, desertification and loss of
ecosystem services. This threatens both biodiversity
and the livelihoods dependent on these ecosystems.
Adoption of sustainable land-use planning that
balances development with conservation priorities,
and agroforestry and sustainable agricultural
practices that enhance soil health and biodiversity
should be promoted.
Many animal species in India are endangered due to
habitat loss, poaching, human-wildlife conflict and
climate change. There is a need to expand and
effectively manage protected areas and wildlife
corridors to ensure habitat connectivity. India is
creating and strengthening wildlife corridors to
facilitate wildlife movement, maintain genetic diversity
B O E J N Q S P W F I B C J U B U D P O O F D U J W J U Z ø ' V S U I F S M F H B M
frameworks in India are evolving to provide more
robust protection and management for these areas.
By integrating conservation efforts with community
participation and sustainable policies, India continues
to pave the way for a greener, healthier and more
prosperous future.
J … n ÏÓ r n X I 0 … z n z (
162
16
GOAL
Peace, Justice and
Strong Institutions
SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions) aims
to promote peaceful and inclusive societies, provide
access to justice for all and build effective,
accountable and inclusive institutions at all levels. It
seeks to address the most significant and destructive
challenges to development, growth and well-being:
violence and armed conflict. The global sustainable
development agenda for 2030 promotes transparent
and effective local governance and judicial systems,
reducing crime and sexual and gender-based
violence, tackling homicide and trafficking cases and
ending violations of children’s rights. SDG 16
addresses the challenges of violence at all
levels—individual, relationship, community and
societal.
The Indian Constitution deeply embeds the spirit of
democracy, justice, liberty and equality in
governance of the country. Legislation such as The
Right to Information Act, Lok Pal and Lok Ayukta Act
and Whistle Blowers Protection Act further reinforce
these principles. Additionally, more than 90% of
citizens are covered under the unique identity system
Aadhar. The constitutional framework of the country
ensures political participation of vulnerable groups.
PROVIDING LEGAL
IDENTITY FOR ALL
Aadhaar, India's 12-digit unique identification
number, has reshaped the nation's approach to
identity verification and service delivery since its
inception in 2009. The programme was launched with
a mission to provide every resident with a reliable,
digitally verifiable identity using minimal demographic
and biometric data. Aadhaar's robust authentication
framework addresses long-standing issues of
identity-related
VOLUNTARY NATIONAL REVIEW REPORT
Copyright@ NITI Aayog, 2025
NITI Aayog,
Government of India,
Sansad Marg, New Delhi - 110001, India
www.niti.gov.in
Report Design by Think Inc Studio
2025
VOLUNTARY NATIONAL REVIEW REPORT
Message
In 2015, India did not merely adopt the Sustainable Development Goals, it made a bold promise to its people
and the world. A promise to drive inclusive and equitable sustainable development at scale, and fully
respectful of the country’s diversity. India’s commitment embodies a resolute dedication to address poverty,
inequality and environmental challenges directly and effectively.
India’s journey is set against a global backdrop where the stakes are high. The 2023 G20 New Delhi Leaders’
Declaration commended the efforts of the Indian Presidency to accelerate the implementation of the 2030
" H F O E B " U U I F 4 V N N J U P G U I F ' V U V S F X P S M E M F B E F S T S F B G m S N F E U I F J S C F M J F G J O B C S J H I U F S G V U V S F G P S B M M
humanity by adopting the Pact for the Future, pledging to accelerate progress on the SDGs through renewed
multilateralism and strengthened international cooperation. The world stands at a crossroads today, progress
towards the SDGs remains slow, and in some areas, has even regressed. Globally, the call for urgent,
collective action is louder than ever.
As the world’s largest democracy and a fast-growing economy, India shoulders a unique responsibility. Our
third Voluntary National Review, presented to the United Nations High Level Political Forum on Sustainable
Development, builds on the momentum of our previous reports in 2017 and 2020. This 2025 review is a
S F n F D U J P O P G Q S P H S F T T B O E B O I P O F T U B T T F T T N F O U P G X I B U S F N B J O T U P C F E P O F 5 I F Q S P D F T T I B T H B M W B O J T F E
voices from every sector including national and sub-national governments, civil society, and the private sector,
ensuring that our strategies are not only ambitious but also grounded in reality and partnership.
5 I F S F T V M U T B S F U B O H J C M F . J M M J P O T I B W F H B J O F E B D D F T T U P B G G P S E B C M F I F B M U I D B S F T F D V S F I P V T J O H B O E m O B O D J B M
inclusion. Flagship programmes like Ayushman Bharat, Poshan Abhiyan, Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana,
Skill India, and PM Gati Shakti are not just policies, they are pathways out of poverty and towards dignity and
T F M G S F M J B O D F " T D P O m S N F E C Z 6 / % 1 B O F T U J N B U F E N J M M J P O Q F P Q M F I B W F F T D B Q F E ø N V M U J E J N F O T J P O B M Q P W F S U Z ø
between 2015-16 and 2019-21. Digital Public Infrastructure is enabling seamless access to essential services
and opportunities, while robust data systems are ensuring that interventions are targeted, effective, and
equitable. Through a relentless focus on last-mile delivery and the synergy of schemes through initiatives such
Shri Suman Bery
Vice Chairman
National Institution for Transforming India
(NITI Aayog), Government of India
i
B T U I F " T Q J S B U J P O B M % J T U S J D U B O E # M P D L 1 S P H S B N N F T X F B S F E F U F S N J O F E U I B U U I F C F O F m U T P G H S P X U I B O E
progress reach every corner, leaving no one behind.
At the heart of this journey is our guiding principle of ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, Sabka
Prayas’ (Together for everyone’s growth, with everyone’s trust and effort). True and lasting development can
only be achieved when all partners and stakeholders work together and that is why India’s SDG Localisation
model involves a ‘whole-of Government’ and ‘whole-of society’ approach. Over the years, India has taken this
model to the most granular levels and districts, blocks and villages have been engaged to enable them to
adopt the SDG framework. This includes the development of monitoring frameworks, creating awareness,
undertaking capacity-building activities, and partnering with academic institutions, think tanks, and civil
society organisations.
8 J U I K V T U m W F Z F B S T M F G U U P B D I J F W F U I F 4 % ( T X F C F M J F W F U I B U * O E J B T T U P S Z E F T F S W F T B U U F O U J P O U P X I B U J T Q P T T J C M F
when innovation, resilience, and inclusive governance come together. Our progress is powered by data and
technology, but its true strength lies in the lived experiences of our people. India is not just focused on 2030,
but laying the foundation for Viksit Bharat, a fully developed India, by 2047.
Advancing the SDGs is not just an Indian imperative, it is a global public good. Our commitment is unwavering,
to leave no one behind, to mobilise resources where they matter most and to lead by example.
Shri Suman Bery
11
th
June, 2025
New Delhi, India
ii
Message
India’s implementation journey of the Agenda 2030 for Sustainable Development has been one of progress
and resilience while navigating global challenges. Recognised as one of the largest and fastest growing
economies worldwide, India has made steady progress in delivering development and resilience at scale.
This includes transforming India’s social welfare system and safety nets, investing in renewable energy,
focusing on digital inclusion, and developing infrastructure through various national and sub-national
initiatives. These achievements have been broad-based and inclusive, ensuring that vulnerable sections of
T P D J F U Z B M T P S F B Q U I F C F O F m U T P G U I F D P V O U S Z h T Q S P H S F T T U I F S F C Z W B M J E B U J O H U I F D M B S J P O D B M M P G h 4 B C L B 4 B B U I
4 B C L B 7 J L B T 4 B C L B 7 J T I X B T 4 B C L B 1 S B Z B T h 5 P H F U I F S X J U I " M M % F W F M P Q N F O U G P S " M M 5 S V T U P G " M M B O E & G G P S U
by All).
The complexity of today’s problems demands new innovative solutions. India has responded by leveraging
Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) to bring essential services to every doorstep and launching initiatives that
ensure convergence of schemes to reach marginalised communities. India is prioritising data-driven
governance, using indicators, dashboards and indexes to track progress and ensure transparency and
accountability. The SDG India Index has become an important tool to monitor progress and encouraging
sub-national Governments to learn from each other.
The country’s SDG Localisation model demonstrates our belief in cooperative and competitive federalism,
enabling tailored solutions to diverse challenges. In collaboration with the national Government,
sub-national Governments across the country have taken leadership at the local level, set up institutional
frameworks, prepared SDG vision documents, undertaken capacity-building and carried the importance of
Shri B.V.R. Subrahmanyam
& K L H I ( [ H F X W L Y H 2 I À F H U
National Institution for Transforming India
(NITI Aayog), Government of India
iii
SDGs down to the district and local levels. While we acknowledge our accomplishments, we are aware that
important areas such as rapid urbanisation and climate change require our continuous attention and effort.
India’s commitment to Agenda 2030 also integrates seamlessly with its long-term vision of Viksit
Bharat@2047, making India a developed nation in the centenary year of its independence; where
F D P O P N J D H S P X U I J T T I B S F E B O E B M M D J U J [ F O T D B O D P O U S J C V U F U P B O E C F O F m U G S P N U I F O B U J P O T Q S P H S F T T 5 I F
D P V O U S Z T W J T J P O J T m S N M Z J O D M V T J W F X J U I B G P D V T P O S F E V D J O H J O F R V B M J U Z P G B D D F T T J O W F T U J O H J O Z P V U I B O E
women, and building pathways out of poverty. As India moves forward, the SDGs will remain a cornerstone
of our growth strategy, guiding the nation towards building a just, equitable and resilient future for all and
leaving no one behind.
With a focus on collaboration, we are proud to present India’s third Voluntary National Review to the United
Nations High Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development. This effort documents the experiences of
institutionalising the SDGs in the country, including both achievements and challenges, to share with the
global community and contribute to a more sustainable and equitable future for all. By sharing our journey,
X F S F B G m S N P V S C F M J F G U I B U U P H F U I F S X F D B O U S B O T G P S N D I B M M F O H F T J O U P P Q Q P S U V O J U J F T B O E F O I B O D F F G G P S U T U P
advancing Agenda 2030.
Shri B.V.R. Subrahmanyam
11
th
June, 2025
New Delhi, India
iv
Acknowledgement
The journey towards sustainable development is a dynamic, ever-evolving pursuit that demands resilience,
innovation and unwavering commitment. A decade ago, when the global community rallied behind Agenda
2030, India recognised that its actions would not only shape its own future, but also contribute to the
D P M M F D U J W F Q S P H S F T T P G I V N B O J U Z 5 P E B Z B T X F S F n F D U P O P V S Q S P H S F T T X F B S F S F N J O E F E U I B U U I F D P O U F Y U J O
which we operate has grown more complex, the challenges more urgent and the stakes higher than ever
before.
India’s development story is one of transformation at scale. As a result of bold policies and targeted
interventions, millions have gained access to basic services like clean water and sanitation, skilling,
housing, and food security. This inclusive model has enabled us to foster partnerships across sectors,
levels of Government and regions, amplifying the impact of our efforts.
We are honoured to submit our third Voluntary National Review (VNR) to the United Nations High Level
Political Forum on Sustainable Development. Spanning more than nine months, the VNR process involved
comprehensive consultations across the nation, drawing upon the insights and experiences of a diverse
array of stakeholders including national and sub-national Governments (28 States and 8 Union Territories)
and by engaging over a thousand civil society organisations, think tanks, the private sector and local
D P N N V O J U J F T 0 V S T J O D F S F U I B O L T B M T P H P U P U I F 6 O J U F E / B U J P O T 3 F T J E F O U $ P P S E J O B U P S h T 0 G m D F B O E P U I F S
United Nations agencies in India for their crucial role in facilitating structured dialogue with civil society
organisations and business representatives.
Shri Rajib Kumar Sen
Programme Director (SDG)
National Institution for Transforming India
(NITI Aayog), Government of India
v
vi
We would like to extend our heartfelt appreciation to Shri Suman Bery, Vice Chairman of NITI Aayog. His
encouragement and deep inspiration have played a crucial role in motivating our efforts. We are also
H S B U F G V M U P 4 I S J # 7 3 4 V C S B I N B O Z B N $ & 0 P G / * 5 * " B Z P H X I P T F M F B E F S T I J Q B O E T U F B E G B T U E F E J D B U J P O I B T
been central to the successful development of the VNR. We are also thankful to the Hon’ble Members and
Programme Directors of NITI Aayog for their valuable support and contributions.
Last but not the least, I would also like to commend the efforts of the SDG Team which has been
instrumental in bringing this ambitious initiative to fruition.
5 I F 7 / 3 T F S W F T C P U I B T B S F D P S E P G P V S B D D P N Q M J T I N F O U T B O E B T B D P N Q F M M J O H D B M M U P B D U J P O * U S F n F D U T U I F
progress made through determination and collaboration, guided by a commitment to sustainability and
inclusion.
Shri Rajib Kumar Sen
11
th
June, 2025
New Delhi, India
CONTENTS
Message from the Vice Chairman, NITI Aayog i
0 H V V D J H I U R P W K H & K L H I ( [ H F X W L Y H 2 I À F H U 1 , 7 , $ D \ R J L L L
Acknowledgement v
CHAPTER 01
A Decade of Progress on the Path to Agenda 2030 1-9
CHAPTER 02
India and the World 11-19
CHAPTER 03
Consultations with Stakeholders 21-37
CHAPTER 04
India on the Move: Progress on SDGs 39-177
CHAPTER 05
Data for Development 179-189
CHAPTER 06
Last Mile Delivery and a Whole-of-Society Approach 181-203
CHAPTER 07
, Q G L D · V 6 ' * / R F D O L V D W L R Q 0 R G H O
CHAPTER 08
Digital Public Infrastructure 219-227
CHAPTER 09
7 R Z D U G V D 9 L N V L W % K D U D W #
9 1 5 $ E E U H Y L D W L R Q V
01
CHAPTER
A decade of progress
on the Path to Agenda 203001
xxxxxx
WHOLE-OF-GOVERNMENT
AND WHOLE-OF-SOCIETY
APPROACH TO ACHIEVING
THE SDGs
India has demonstrated its consistent commitment to
Agenda 2030 from the outset, by embracing the
Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) at all levels of
the Government. Recognising the interconnectedness
of various issues such as poverty, inequality, health,
innovation and climate change, the Government has
made consistent efforts to put in place structures and
create policies that can contribute towards the
achievement of development priorities. India’s
approach anchored in the principle of 'Sabka Saath,
Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, Sabka Prayas'
(Together with All, Development for All, Trust of All,
and Efforts by All) underscores India's commitment to
human-centric sustainable development that leaves
no one behind.
India has deepened its commitment to cooperative
federalism, with collaboration as ‘Team India’
extending from the Centre, State and Union Territory
(UT) levels all the way down to Districts, Blocks and
Municipal or Gram Panchayats (village) levels. This
‘whole-of-government’ approach has advanced the
development agenda by implementing process and
governance reforms, reducing compliance burdens,
and simplifying and digitising processes.
The resulting shift is enhancing the investment
climate, fostering participative governance, and
improving the quality of life by strengthening the
delivery mechanisms of government interventions.
India, with its population of over 1.4 billion and a
vibrant tapestry of culture, language and tradition,
stands as one of the world’s fastest-growing
economies. This diversity, coupled with a blend of
ancient wisdom and modern aspirations, has shaped
a nation that is continuously evolving and adapting to
new challenges. India has sought to ensure that
growth and development are not just rapid, but also
sustainable, resilient, broad-based and inclusive,
reaching all sections of society, especially the most
marginalised.
CHAPTER 1: A DECADE OF PROGRESS ON THE
PATH TO AGENDA 2030
Today, the Indian SDG Localisation model has
evolved into a decentralised, data-driven, and
participatory approach, with enhanced monitoring
tools, and a greater emphasis on partnerships and
adaptive governance. The model has been taken to
the most granular levels with an increase in levels of
engagement with States, UTs, Districts and
institutional structures beyond, to enable them to
adopt the SDG framework. To foster cooperative and
competitive federalism, the SDG India Index has been
developed as a tool for measuring progress in
achieving the SDGs, accessible to all stakeholders.
27 States and 5 UTs (sub-national governments) have
established indicator frameworks, 23 States and 4
UTs have prepared SDG vision documents and many
have undertaken capacity-building to support SDG
implementation. The ‘whole-of-society’ approach is
complementing this by bringing together civil society,
the private sector, academia, think tanks and media to
promote citizen participation and mobilise resources
for urgent SDG priorities.
The SDG India Index 2023-2024 has highlighted that
the composite score for India has improved from 57 in
2018 to 71 in 2023-24. Various institutional and
coordination mechanisms have supported India’s
efforts in its progress towards its Agenda 2030 goals.
3
1. Discussion forums at various levels
To facilitate the exchange of ideas, sharing of best
practices and improved implementation, the
Government has established various forums at the
political, executive and ideation level to enhance
coordination and policy execution. These platforms
encourage idea generation, foster cross-learning, and
provide opportunities for the development of new
initiatives and innovations.
a. Governing Council
The Governing Council of NITI Aayog is a key political
platform that embodies the principle of cooperative
federalism. It comprises the Prime Minister, Chief
Ministers of all States and UTs and key Union
ministers. This Council provides a platform to discuss
inter-sectoral and inter-departmental issues. The
involvement of Chief Ministers enables the Governing
$ P V O D J M U P D P O T J E F S T U B U F T Q F D J m D D P O D F S O T B O E
strategies while shaping national policies.
b. National Conference of Chief Secretaries
At the executive level, the National Conference of
Chief Secretaries is organised annually under the
leadership of the Cabinet Secretary and is driven by
the Prime Minister's vision to enhance cooperative
federalism and foster better coordination between the
Centre and States. The conference chaired by the
Prime Minister, is attended by representatives from all
4 U B U F T B O E 6 O J P O 5 F S S J U P S J F T B M P O H X J U I P G m D J B M T G S P N
select Union Ministries. Each conference is preceded
by discussions involving Union Ministries, States/UTs,
and domain experts to identify best practices that
could be shared among States/UTs to encourage
cross-learning.
c. Chintan Shivirs (Strategic Brainstorming
Sessions)
Chintan Shivirs (strategic brainstorming sessions) are
conducted at different levels including the ministerial
level to enhance governance, policy formulation and
strategic planning. These sessions adopt an inclusive
approach by engaging a wide range of stakeholders
J O D M V E J O H N J O J T U F S T T F D S F U B S J F T T F O J P S P G m D J B M T
industry leaders, academics and experts from various
m F M E T F O T V S J O H E J W F S T F Q F S T Q F D U J W F T B O E J O T J H I U T U I B U
lead to more robust policy recommendations.
During the 2024 Chintan Shivir on Renewable Energy,
India's ambitious goal of achieving 500 GW of
renewable energy capacity by 2030 was extensively
discussed. The event highlighted the necessity of
collaborative efforts and strategic initiatives to meet
this target, emphasising inter-ministerial coordination
and stakeholder engagement to address sector
challenges. Another outcome of these shivirs was the
setting up a dedicated task force to achieve the goal
of 500 GW by 2030.
A DECADE OF PROGRESS ON THE PATH TO AGENDA 2030
4
POLICIES EMPOWERING
PROGRESS
The strategic discussions at various levels have led to
establishment of initiatives and policies that are
playing a catalytic role in empowering people and
communities and addressing key challenges such as
hunger, health, education, gender equality, water and
sanitation, energy and economic growth.
Efforts to eradicate hunger and malnutrition include
the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana, which
has helped ensure food security for millions.
Sustainable agriculture is supported through
programmes like Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi
and the National Mission on Sustainable Agriculture,
while nutrition-focused initiatives such as POSHAN
Abhiyaan have driven progress in reducing child
malnutrition. In healthcare, initiatives like Ayushman
Bharat Yojana, the National Health Mission and the
Pradhan Mantri Ayushman Bharat Health
Infrastructure Mission have expanded access and
T U S F O H U I F O F E J O G S B T U S V D U V S F D P O U S J C V U J O H U P T J H O J m D B O U
declines in maternal, infant and child mortality.
Access to safe and affordable drinking water and
sanitation has improved through the Jal Jeevan
Mission, aiming to provide tap water to every rural
household, and the Swachh Bharat Mission, which
has expanded sanitation coverage nationwide. The
transition to clean energy is supported by
programmes like the National Green Hydrogen
Mission and Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha
evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan (PM KUSUM), alongside
efforts to increase renewable energy capacity and
promote energy access through schemes such as
Pradhan Mantri Sahaj Bijli Har Ghar Yojana and PM
Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana. Economic recovery and
job creation are being driven by initiatives like Startup
India and Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana, and
Skills Acquisition and Knowledge Awareness for
Livelihood, which focus on skill development,
entrepreneurship, and support for micro, small and
medium enterprises. Infrastructure and industrial
capabilities are being enhanced through Make in
India, PM Gati Shakti and the National Industrial
Corridor Development Programme.
2. State Support Mission
As the Prime Minister has emphasised, "When our
states grow, India grows". The Union Government has
introduced the State Support Mission (SSM) to
enhance engagement with States and UTs in a
structured and institutionalised manner. The SSM
helps States/UTs develop a roadmap for achieving
their socio-economic goals by aligning development
strategies with national priorities and focusing on
each State's core strengths. Interested states have
established State Institutions for Transformation (SITs)
which serve as multi-disciplinary resources to guide
development strategies. These can be new or existing
institutions, such as planning departments and
boards, reimagined for this purpose. As of 2024, 26
SITs have been established under the SSM. The
mission emphasises cross-sectoral partnerships and
expertise, and States/UTs are encouraged to
designate a Lead Knowledge Institution to support
the SITs by partnering with universities or research
organisations of excellence in their region.
3. Multi-Stakeholder Partnerships
India is advancing the SDGs through partnerships
across the Government, the private sector, civil
society, academia, and think tanks through
‘whole-of-society’ approach. The private sector is
Q M B Z J O H B Q J W P U B M S P M F C Z M F W F S B H J O H J U T m O B O D J B M
resources, human capital and technological expertise
to innovate and accelerate SDG implementation. This
includes strategic investments in job creation, digital
platforms, entrepreneurship support, and integrating
SDGs into core business operations. Civil Society
Organisations (CSOs) are instrumental in facilitating
citizen-government dialogue, providing independent
oversight, and mobilising essential networks that
amplify government efforts. The research and
analytical expertise of think tanks and academia
further enrich these partnerships, helping to translate
complex challenges into actionable solutions. This
approach empowers communities, fosters local
ownership, and supports sustainable, long-term
progress toward the SDGs.
A DECADE OF PROGRESS ON THE PATH TO AGENDA 2030
5
These efforts, combined with mobilising technology
and increasing connectivity, are collectively
contributing to India’s comprehensive approach to
sustainable and inclusive development.
Central to this progress has been India’s remarkable
achievements in poverty reduction. As per the
discussion paper ‘Multidimensional Poverty in India
since 2005-06’ by NITI Aayog and UNDP, 248.2 million
people have escaped multidimensional poverty
between 2013-14 and 2022-23.
1
The World Bank’s
Spring Meetings 2025 Poverty and Equity Brief further
notes that around 171 million people have been lifted
out of extreme poverty, with the proportion of people
living in extreme poverty on less than $2.15 a day
falling sharply from 16.2 percent in 2011-12 to just 2.3
percent in 2022-23.
2
5 I F T F O V N C F S T S F n F D U N P S F U I B O
statistical progress; they represent real improvements
in the lives of millions. Expanded access to healthcare,
education, electricity, sanitation, and affordable
housing has transformed the quality of life for millions.
Convergence of schemes at various levels and the
saturation of essential government services are being
advanced through initiatives such as the Aspirational
Districts Programme (ADP) and the Aspirational
Blocks Programme (ABP). ADP targets 112
underdeveloped districts, focusing on health,
education, infrastructure and economic development
through multi-sectoral interventions. Building on ADP’s
success, the ABP was launched in 2023 to improve
governance and quality of life in 500 blocks across 27
states and 4 UTs. Both programmes emphasise
data-driven governance, real-time monitoring and
collaboration among Central, State and local bodies to
N F F U E J T U S J D U T Q F D J m D O F F E T B O E B E W B O D F 4 % (
localisation. These programmes empower local
communities and ensure targeted, measurable
interventions to bridge development gaps.
n ³ Ás x X n 0 ( 0 n X à 0 « ç
India's dedication to the SDGs is deeply connected to
J U T F G G P S U T U P F O T V S F H S P X U I C F O F m U T S F B D I
marginalised and vulnerable communities. As the
world's largest democracy, India faces the challenge
of serving a diverse population, focusing on effective
last-mile delivery of essential services like healthcare,
education, housing, sanitation and energy. The
Government recognises that reaching those most in
need is crucial for equitable development. Initiatives
such as the Aspirational District Programme,
Aspirational Block Programme and Gram Panchayat
Development Plans (GPDPs) are designed to
accelerate progress in the most underdeveloped and
disadvantaged areas. For instance, GPDPs enable
villages to align their development strategies with
SDG targets and foster accountability at the
grassroots level. By concentrating resources and
attention on these regions, India has been able to
address persistent inequalities and bring
development to previously underserved communities.
Additionally, empowering local governments and
communities to identify priorities and implement
solutions has ensured that development is responsive
to local needs.
Consultations with Leave No One Behind Groups
(LNOB Groups), civil society and the private sector
have been integral to India’s SDG strategy. These
participatory processes ensure that the perspectives
of marginalised communities and key stakeholders
B S F S F n F D U F E J O Q P M J D Z E F T J H O B O E J N Q M F N F O U B U J P O
DIGITAL PUBLIC
INFRASTRUCTURE
India's Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) serves as a
key enabler for economic growth and broader
socio-economic objectives, demonstrating how
well-designed digital infrastructure can support
societal transformation, promote inclusion and
improve governance and service delivery. By
seamlessly integrating digital identity (Aadhaar),
S F B M U J N F Q B Z N F O U T 6 O J m F E 1 B Z N F O U T * O U F S G B D F B O E
consent-based data sharing frameworks, India has
built a secure, interoperable and scalable digital
backbone that serves over a billion people. This
citizen-centric model rooted in open standards,
public-private collaboration and digital inclusion not
only enhances service delivery and transparency but
B M T P S F E F m O F T I P X O B U J P O T D B O C S J E H F E F W F M P Q N F O U B M
gaps through innovation.
DATA FOR DEVELOPMENT
India emphasises data-driven decision-making to
accelerate SDG achievement, highlighting the need
for high-quality data, robust statistical systems and
equitable data governance. The country has
enhanced its National Indicator Framework and
encouraged States to develop their own frameworks,
ensuring that both national and sub-national priorities
South has gained global importance. These themes were prominent during India’s 2023 G20 Presidency and continue to drive momentum in UN processes, including the UN Summit of the Future, Financing for Development negotiations and the UN Environmental Assembly. Anchored in the vision of “One Earth, One Family, One Future”, India’s G20 Presidency culminated in an action-oriented New Delhi Declaration, resulting in unprecedented agreement among major economies on reforming multilateralism, accelerating SDGs, strengthening multilateral E F W F M P Q N F O U m O B O D F B O E B N Q M J G Z J O H U I F ( M P C B M South's voice by inviting the African Union as a permanent G20 member. Additionally, India, inspired by its Mission Lifestyle for Environment (LiFE), which emphasises individual actions in combating climate change, has successfully advocated for a global resolution on sustainable lifestyles. India is a signatory to Pact of the Future to drive global acceleration of Agenda 2030 and strengthen sustainable development, digital cooperation, youth engagement and global governance transformation.
A DECADE OF PROGRESS ON THE PATH TO AGENDA 2030
6
are effectively tracked. Tools and indices such as the
SDG India Index, North-Eastern Region District SDG
Index and the Multidimensional Poverty Index, School
Education Quality Index, State Health Index and India
Innovation Index are being used to monitor progress
and inform policy decisions. These frameworks
support data-driven decision-making, offer
opportunities for States, UTs, Districts, and even Gram
Panchayats (village councils) to identify priority areas
for improvement, enhance targeting and optimise
resource allocation. India’s decentralised statistical
system is undergoing reforms to improve data quality,
interoperability and human capital. In addition, new
technologies and alternative data sources are being
integrated to further strengthen SDG monitoring.
GLOBAL LEADERSHIP AND
COLLABORATION
The country’s focus on DPI, data for development,
women-led development and empowering the Global
South has gained global importance. These themes
were prominent during India’s 2023 G20 Presidency
and continue to drive momentum in UN processes,
including the UN Summit of the Future, Financing for
Development negotiations and the UN Environmental
Assembly. Anchored in the vision of “One Earth, One
Family, One Future”, India’s G20 Presidency
culminated in an action-oriented New Delhi
Declaration, resulting in unprecedented agreement
among major economies on reforming multilateralism,
accelerating SDGs, strengthening multilateral
E F W F M P Q N F O U m O B O D F B O E B N Q M J G Z J O H U I F ( M P C B M
South's voice by inviting the African Union as a
permanent G20 member. Additionally, India, inspired
by its Mission Lifestyle for Environment (LiFE), which
emphasises individual actions in combating climate
change, has successfully advocated for a global
resolution on sustainable lifestyles. India is a signatory
to Pact of the Future to drive global acceleration of
Agenda 2030 and strengthen sustainable
development, digital cooperation, youth engagement
and global governance transformation.
A DECADE OF PROGRESS ON THE PATH TO AGENDA 2030
7
TOWARDS VIKSIT
R « ÁþÐÎÒÕ
While substantial progress has been made,
opportunities for improvement remain, particularly in
harnessing high-quality data for policymaking,
empowering youth, enhancing skilling and
employment opportunities and increasing women’s
participation in the workforce. With an estimated 590
million people expected to migrate to urban areas by
2030, preparing cities with robust infrastructure and
services is essential. Identifying and developing new
growth centres can help reduce regional inequalities.
Persistent issues like climate change and
environmental pollution also demand sustained
attention. To address these, the Government is
continuously monitoring and evaluating its
programmes, and actively collaborating with civil
society and the private sector, even during
consultations, to foster all-round development and
F O T V S F F G m D J F O U M B T U N J M F E F M J W F S Z
India’s steadfast commitment to the SDGs, extends
C F Z P O E D V M N J O B U J O H J O U I F B N C J U J P V T W J T J P O P G ø
Viksit Bharat@2047, a developed India by the
centenary of independence. This vision aligns with
India's push to achieve the SDGs, demonstrating a
dedication to fostering sustainable growth,
empowering citizens and implementing strategies that
enhance their capabilities to realise their aspirations,
ultimately building the foundation for an inclusive and
thriving India and the world.
The journey towards 2030 and beyond is
characterised by a continuous interplay between
national ambition and local action, global
engagement and grassroots empowerment.
Strengthening coordination and knowledge-sharing
across stakeholders will continue to enhance Team
India’s resilience against future disruptions and
B M J H O J O H E F W F M P Q N F O U F G G P S U T U P C F F G m D J F O U J O D M V T J W F
and globally relevant. As India moves forward, the
SDGs will remain a cornerstone of its economic
strategy, guiding the nation toward sustained growth,
innovation and sustainability.
2025 VOLUNTARY
NATIONAL REVIEW
Previous Voluntary National Reviews (VNRs) in 2017
and 2020 had documented India’s innovative
pathways to progress. For instance, the 2020 VNR
consulted widely with stakeholders, setting a
precedent for future reviews.
The 2025 VNR marks 10 years of collaborative
federalism and SDG localisation, showcasing India’s
resilience in the face of global crises. It highlights the
convergence of schemes at various levels and
saturation of essential government services thereby
promoting inclusive development and demonstrating
sub-national and local ownership of progress. India’s
human centric digitally enabled safety nets and SDG
localisation model demonstrate this ownership,
testifying to the effectiveness of India’s development
strategies.
India’s SDG journey over the past decade offers a
unique opportunity to analyse and compile best
practices. This VNR aims to share India's success
story with the wider United Nations and other UN
Member States, highlighting the role that India's
development can play for the world as a whole. By
documenting its progress and challenges, India
seeks to share its experiences and lessons learned
with the global community, contributing to a more
sustainable and equitable future for all.
8
A DECADE OF PROGRESS ON THE PATH TO AGENDA 2030
02
CHAPTER
02
India and the World
Agenda 2030 stands as a landmark goal, remarkable
both for its universality and its integrity, demanding a
comprehensive and inclusive approach. The SDGs
form a universally agreed framework that seeks to
balance the dignity of every individual with the
imperative for sustainable behaviour, ensuring that the
Q S F T F O U H F O F S B U J P O G V M m M T J U T S F T Q P O T J C J M J U J F T U P U I P T F Z F U
to come. Progress on these goals is not only vital for
global safety and stability, but also constitutes a global
public good.
India holds a pivotal place in the global pursuit of the
SDGs, and recognises that realising these ambitions
requires international cooperation and a shared sense
of responsibility. Emphasising the power of
partnerships, especially through South-South
Cooperation, India is focusing on knowledge-sharing,
mutual support, and capacity-building among
developing nations. By offering technical assistance,
m O B O D J B M S F T P V S D F T B O E J U T P X O E F W F M P Q N F O U B M
experiences, India is seeking to foster collaboration,
reinforcing the idea that sustainable development is
best achieved through collective action and solidarity.
India’s approach to sustainable development prioritises
J O D M V T J W F H S P X U I B O E F O T V S J O H U I B U F D P O P N J D C F O F m U T
reach all sections of society, especially marginalised
communities. Its commitment to the Paris Agreement
highlights its focus on climate action, while its early and
active membership in the Global Alliance Against
Hunger and Poverty demonstrates its ongoing efforts to
achieve SDG 1 (No Poverty) and SDG 2 (Zero Hunger).
India is actively contributing to the Alliance, through the
National and Knowledge Pillars and is sharing the
experience of its policies and large-scale social welfare
programmes, such as the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan
Anna Yojana (PMGKAY), Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan
Yojana (PMJDY), National Nutrition Mission (NNM) also
known as POSHAN Abhiyan and the Aspirational
Districts Programme (ADP) and Aspirational Blocks
Programme (ABP), with the world.
CHAPTER 2: INDIA AND THE WORLD
INDIA AS A VISHWA BANDHU
h I « X 0 z ( … I Á R 0 á … « n (
i
India's development partnership is tailored to meet the
needs of its partner countries, responding to as many
S F R V F T U T B T U F D I O J D B M M Z B O E m O B O D J B M M Z G F B T J C M F 5 I F
main instruments of India's development assistance
include Lines-of-Credit (LoCs), High Impact Community
Development Projects (HICDPs), technical consultancy,
disaster relief and humanitarian aid, as well as
capacity-building programmes under the Indian
Technical and Economic Cooperation Programme
* 5 & $ " T U I F n B H T I J Q D B Q B D J U Z C V J M E J O H Q S P H S B N N F P G
( P W F S O N F O U P G * O E J B * 5 & $ I B T C F O F m U U F E N P S F U I B O
countries and has contributed to the capacity
enhancement of more than 225,000 professionals since
its inception. Today, it has been expanded to include
F N F S H J O H m F M E T M J L F " * O B O P U F D I O P M P H Z G P S F O T J D T B O E
cyber security.
Over the years, India has extended 308 LoCs
aggregating more than USD 32.029 billion to various
countries across different sectors. The portfolio LoCs
I B T C F F O E J W F S T J m F E C P U I H F P H S B Q I J D B M M Z B O E T F D U P S
wise, and now covers regions like the Latin America and
U I F $ B S J C C F B O - " $ B O E * O E P 1 B D J m D B O E
encompasses sectors such as connectivity, ICT, health,
and renewable energy.
India has been a strong advocate for amplifying the
voices of the Global South by hosting three Voice of
Global South Summits (VOGSS), which have seen
participation from over 100 countries. These summits
have provided a platform for developing countries to
articulate their developmental concerns collectively.
' F F E C B D L G S P N U I F m S T U U X P T V N N J U T X B T S F n F D U F E J O
global forums like the G20 Summit under India's
Presidency. During the third VOGSS in 2024, the Indian
Prime Minister proposed a Global Development
Compact, focusing on trade for development, capacity
C V J M E J O H U F D I O P M P H Z T I B S J O H B O E Q S P K F D U T Q F D J m D
D P O D F T T J P O B M m O B O D F B O E H S B O U T " E E J U J P O B M M Z * O E J B
announced initiatives to advance its development
partnership with Global South including a USD 2.5
million fund to boost trade promotion activities and a
USD 1 million fund for capacity building in trade policy
and trade negotiation.
13
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³ R « 0 ( ¨ « … ³ ¨ 0 « X Á ç X z Á R 0 J n … n ³ … È Á R
India's South-South cooperation activities also leverage the UN development system and its network of UN
country teams worldwide. In 2017 India launched the India-UN Development Partnership Fund in
F R O O D E R U D W L R Q Z L W K W K H 8 1 2 I À F H I R U 6 R X W K 6 R X W K & R R S H U D W L R Q 8 1 2 6 6 & W R K H O S D F K L H Y H W K H 6 ' * V E \
implementing country-driven projects that aim to: reduce poverty and hunger; improve health, education
and equality; and increase access to clean water, energy and livelihoods. The Fund's resources amount to
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) L J X U H , Q G L D 8 1 S D U W Q H U V K L S ) X Q G S U R M H F W V E \ F R X Q W U \ W \ S R O R J \Source: https://unsouthsouth.org/indiaunfund/ 1 X P E H U R I S U R M H F W V 6 P D O O , V O D Q G
' H Y H O R S L Q J 6 W D W H V / H D V W ' H Y H O R S H G
Countries / D Q G O R F N H G ' H Y H O R S L Q J
Countries
22
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INDIA AND THE WORLD
14
INDIA’S LEADERSHIP AT
Á R 0 JÐÎ
During the Indian G20 Presidency, G20 Leaders
adopted decisive and action-oriented outcomes to
B E E S F T T H M P C B M D I B M M F O H F T S F n F D U J O H B D P N N J U N F O U
to sustainable development and support for the most
vulnerable. A key achievement was the G20 2023
Action Plan to Accelerate Progress on the SDGs, an
ambitious 7-year roadmap for coordinated G20
actions. This plan achieved a strong consensus on
Financing for Development including addressing the
C P U U M F O F D L T J O m O B O D J O H B O E I J H I M J H I U F E U I F O F F E G P S
an internationally enabling environment to promote
globally just transitions, ensuring no one is left behind.
Additionally, it emphasised the potential of DPI and
Data for Development (D4D) to achieve SDGs and
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7 R D G G U H V V W K L V W K H , ( * S U R S R V H G L P S R U W D Q W U H I R U P V I R U W K H P X O W L O D W H U D O G H Y H O R S P H Q W E D Q N V W R E H F R P H
E R W K E L J J H U E X W D O V R E H W W H U L P S O H P H Q W H U V R I W K H 6 ' * V 7 K H W K U H H H O H P H Q W V R I W K L V ´ W U L S O H D J H Q G D µ D U H I R U
0 ' % V W R
L D G R S W D W U L S O H P D Q G D W H R I H O L P L Q D W L Q J H [ W U H P H S R Y H U W \ E R R V W L Q J V K D U H G S U R V S H U L W \ D Q G F R Q W U L E X W L Q J W R
global public goods;
L L W U L S O H V X V W D L Q D E O H O H Q G L Q J O H Y H O V E \ D Q G
L L L F U H D W H Q H Z I X Q G L Q J P H F K D Q L V P V D Q G F R D O L W L R Q V Z K L F K Z R X O G S H U P L W Á H [ L E O H D Q G L Q Q R Y D W L Y H
D U U D Q J H P H Q W V I R U S X U S R V H I X O O \ H Q J D J L Q J Z L W K L Q Y H V W R U V Z L O O L Q J W R V X S S R U W H O H P H Q W V R I W K H 0 ' % D J H Q G D
use AI responsibly for social empowerment. The G20
agreed on a ‘Capacity Building Initiative on D4D’ to
support developing countries in achieving the SDGs,
showcasing a commitment to inclusive development.
Furthermore, the G20 agreed on women-led
development with a focus on women empowerment
and gender equality as one of the key outcomes of
India’s Presidency and established the G20 Working
Group on the Empowerment of Women. The G20 also
welcomed the reports of the Independent Expert
Group on Strengthening Multilateral Development
Banks, which formulated proposals for scaling up
E F W F M P Q N F O U B O E D M J N B U F m O B O D F
INDIA AND THE WORLD
15
India also spearheaded the adoption of policy priorities
at the G20 to address global skill gaps, boosting
cross-country skill comparability and international
cooperation. This initiative will enhance mapping and
mutual recognition of global skill gaps, strengthening
partnerships with various actors, including the UN and
other regional partners. Additionally, India supported
the establishment of the Global Initiative on Digital
Health to achieve Universal Health Coverage (UHC)
and implement the One Health approach, ensuring
equitable access to safe, effective, quality-assured
and affordable vaccines, therapeutics, diagnostics
and other medical countermeasures, especially in low-
and middle-income countries.
The G20 emphasised human-centric action to address
climate change through the LiFEstyles for Sustainable
Development (LiFE) approach. This holistic approach
strengthens interlinkages between development,
climate and environment agendas, contributing to SDG
12, and will have a multiplier effect on SDGs 1 to 8 by
focusing on the basic human needs and promoting
sustainable consumption and production. In the spirit
of shaping a new approach to our planet's future, the
Prime Minister launched the Global Biofuel Alliance
and proposed that G20 countries work on a “Green
Credits Initiative.”
INDIA’S ROLE IN
HEALTHCARE
India has emerged as a pivotal actor in healthcare
E J Q M P N B D Z T J H O J m D B O U M Z D P O U S J C V U J O H U P U I F H M P C B M
health ecosystem. Known as the "pharmacy of the
world," India is the largest producer of generic
medicines and vaccines, playing a central role in improving healthcare access for low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) and ensuring that essential medicines are affordable and available. " Q Q S P Y J N B U F M Z P G U I F X P S M E h T W B D D J O F T B O E P G generic medicines are produced in India, with the World Health Organization (WHO) noting that India N B O V G B D U V S F T P W F S P G U I F H M P C B M E F N B O E G P S vaccines, including critical ones for diseases like polio, hepatitis B and tuberculosis. In 2020, India supplied N P S F U I B O N J M M J P O E P T F T P G U I F Q P M J P W B D D J O F globally, ensuring that polio remains under control. Additionally, India is the largest supplier of ARVs B O U J S F U S P W J S B M E S V H T G P S ) * 7 " * % 4 N F F U J O H P G global needs.
As one of the world's leading vaccine producers, India
was a major contributor to the COVAX initiative, a
global effort to ensure equitable vaccine distribution
during the COVID-19 pandemic, especially to LMICs.
The Serum Institute of India (SII), the world's largest
vaccine manufacturer, produced billions of doses of
the AstraZeneca-Oxford vaccine, which were
distributed globally through COVAX. India's
involvement in COVAX was pivotal in ensuring that
millions of doses reached countries in Africa, Asia, and
Latin America. By mid-2021, India had exported over
250 million vaccine doses to more than 100 countries,
with 40 million doses going to Africa alone. Additionally,
India developed and deployed the Co-WIN platform, a
Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) that facilitated the
smooth distribution of COVID-19 vaccines within India.
The platform's success in managing vaccine rollouts
domestically led India to offer it to other nations,
helping them streamline their own vaccination efforts.
INDIA AND THE WORLD
, Q G L D · V L Q W H U Q D W L R Q D O S U R P R W L R Q R I < R J D K D V G H H S H Q H G J O R E D O X Q G H U V W D Q G L Q J R I , Q G L D Q F X O W X U H D Q G S K L O R V R S K \
5 H V S R Q G L Q J W R , Q G L D · V L Q L W L D W L Y H W K H 8 Q L W H G 1 D W L R Q V * H Q H U D O $ V V H P E O \ G H F O D U H G - X Q H D V W K H , Q W H U Q D W L R Q D O
' D \ R I < R J D R Q ' H F H P E H U Z L W K E U R D G V X S S R U W I U R P P H P E H U V W D W H V ¬ 6 L Q F H W K H Q , Q W H U Q D W L R Q D O < R J D
Day has been celebrated worldwide through diverse activities promoting yoga and holistic well-being.
ç … J J X z ( X | ³ ! … z Á « X È Á X … z Á … J n … n á 0 n ns 0 X z J
These targets are in line with the global climate
B H F O E B B O E S F n F D U * O E J B T E F U F S N J O B U J P O U P D P O U S J C V U F
to climate mitigation while balancing its economic
growth aspirations. Prime Minister’s leadership during
$ 0 1 B M T P F N Q I B T J T F E U I F O F F E G P S E F W F M P Q F E
O B U J P O T U P G V M m M U I F J S m O B O D J B M D P N N J U N F O U T U P
developing countries and to ensure that climate
action does not leave anyone behind. Most recently at
COP29 Summit in Baku in 2024, India led the
E F W F M P Q J O H D P V O U S J F T P Q Q P T J U J P O U P U I F J O T V G m D J F O U
outcome of discussions on the new collective
R V B O U J m F E H P B M P O D M J N B U F m O B O D F B O E I J H I M J H I U F E
that the lack of collaboration on climate change is a
global challenge faced by all countries, but most of
all by the developing countries that are not
responsible for it.
X z ( X | ³ « … n 0 X z J n … n
! n X x Á 0 n 0 ( 0 « ³ R X ¨
Through initiatives like the International Solar Alliance
(ISA), its ambitious Nationally Determined
Contributions (NDCs), advocacy for sustainable
lifestyles and leadership in climate resilience efforts
such as the Coalition for Disaster Resilient
Infrastructure (CDRI), India has proven that it can take
bold steps to address climate change while
prioritising the needs of its people. India's role in
global climate leadership is a balancing act between
its developmental aspirations and environmental
responsibilities.
* U T D P N N J U N F O U U P U I F 1 B S J T " H S F F N F O U J T S F n F D U F E J O
its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs).
Under the NDCs, India has set ambitious targets to
address climate change while simultaneously
T V Q Q P S U J O H F D P O P N J D H S P X U I " U U I F $ 0 1 4 V N N J U J O
Glasgow in 2021, the Prime Minister presented the
m W F O F D U B S F M F N F O U T ø 1 B O D I B N S J U ø P G * O E J B T D M J N B U F
action, which includes:
i. Reaching 500GW non-fossil energy capacity
by 2030;
ii. Meeting 50 per cent of its energy requirements
from renewable energy by 2030;
iii. Reduction of total projected carbon emissions by
one billion tonnes from now to 2030;
iv. Reduction of the carbon intensity of the economy
by 45 per cent by 2030, over 2005 levels;
v. Achieving the target of net zero emissions
by 2070.
INDIA AND THE WORLD
17
India's dedication to promoting renewable energy
globally is illustrated by its founding role in the
International Solar Alliance (ISA), a coalition that aims
to accelerate solar energy deployment worldwide,
with a particular focus on developing nations that
often face challenges in adopting clean energy
technologies due to limited resources. India has
played a pivotal leadership role in the ISA's creation
and operationalisation, with the goal of enhancing
solar energy adoption in developing countries.
The Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure
(CDRI), launched by the Prime Minister in 2019, is a
* O * O E J B J O T Q J S F E C Z J U T O B U J P O B M J O J U J B U J W F - J G F T U Z M F T G P S & O W J S P O N F O U - J ' & ø B O E J U T ( 1 S F T J E F O D Z
deliverables, successfully advocated for a global resolution on sustainable lifestyles. The United Nations
Environment Assembly (UNEA) at its Sixth Session in Nairobi, Kenya, adopted this resolution on 1st March
2024. The resolution, co-sponsored by Sri Lanka and Bolivia, was supported by all participating Member
States. It recognises the potential of behavioural changes toward sustainable lifestyles, in contributing to
the achievement of the three dimensions of sustainable development.
multi-stakeholder global partnership of National
Governments, UN agencies, multilateral development
banks, the private sector and academia focused on
enhancing the resilience of infrastructure systems
against climate-related risks. CDRI supports the
SDGs, Paris Agreement and Sendai Framework by
promoting disaster-resilient infrastructure and
facilitating knowledge exchange. It was during India’s
CDRI co-chairship with the United States of America
U P U I B U U I F X P S M E h T m S T U ( M P C B M
Infrastructure Risk Model and Resilience Index was
launched. The coalition’s diverse and expanding
membership includes both economically advanced
B O E W V M O F S B C M F D P V O U S J F T S F n F D U J O H J U T H M P C B M J N Q B D U
INDIA SPONSORS HISTORIC RESOLUTION ON
¨ « … x … Á X z J ³ È ³ Á X z n 0 n X I 0 ³ Á ç n 0 ³
INDIA AND THE WORLD
18
03
CHAPTER
Consultations
with Stakeholders03
India adopted a systematic approach for preparing the
VNR report, adhering to the Secretary-General's
voluntary common reporting guidelines for VNRs and
following a whole-of-society and consultative process,
thereby ensuring that perspectives of and insights from
a wide range of stakeholders are duly taken note of.
The process, led by the Government, with NITI Aayog
as the key orchestrator, entailed a thorough review of
the nation's progress in the SDG arena. This included
recognising the key success factors and best
practices, pinpointing gaps and challenges, outlining
strategies to overcome them and addressing new and
emerging issues. The approach also recognised the
interconnections among the SDGs and the three
dimensions of sustainable development: social,
economic and environmental. It leveraged India's
CHAPTER 3: CONSULTATIONS WITH
STAKEHOLDERS
VNR 2025 ENGAGEMENTS
GLOBAL AND REGIONAL
• * O R E D O 6 X V W D L Q D E O H ' H Y H O R S P H Q W 5 H S R U W 5 H J L R Q D O G L V V H P L Q D W L R Q Z R U N V K R S I R U $ V L D D Q G W K H 3 D F L À F
• Global VNR workshops by UNDESA
• South and South-West Asia workshop on evidence- based VNRs
• ( Q J D J H P H Q W V D W $ V L D 3 D F L À F ) R U X P R Q 6 X V W D L Q D E O H ' H Y H O R S P H Q W
NATIONAL AND SUBNATIONAL GOVERNMENTS
• 6 ' * 7 D V N ) R U F H
• Regional and state SDG workshops
CIVIL SOCIETY AND PRIVATE SECTOR
• Over 30 regional and national consultations with 13 LNOB groups
• National consultation with the private sector
existing institutional framework for SDG adoption,
J N Q M F N F O U B U J P O B O E N P O J U P S J O H V U J M J T J O H P G m D J B M E B U B
from both national and/ or subnational levels, and
insights from regional and national consultations with
CSOs, NGOs, community organisations, private
sector, and sub-national and local governments.
NITI Aayog initiated the VNR 2025 process in August
2024 by developing a roadmap of the VNR preparation
process. The roadmap consisted of the various steps,
engagements and stakeholders that would together
lead to the development of the VNR report. The
following section details the key engagements, with
various stakeholders at the global, regional, national,
subnational, and local levels that provided inputs for
the report following a whole-of-government and a
whole-of-society approach.
23
GLOBAL AND REGIONAL
ENGAGEMENTS
In November 2024, India hosted the South and
South-West Asia sub-regional workshop on
Sustainable Development Goals, which presented an
opportunity to learn from other countries in the region
about evidence-based Voluntary National Reviews
(VNRs). This workshop was an associated event of
the Eighth South and South-West Multi-stakeholder
Forum on the Implementation of the Sustainable
Development Goals. It brought together
representatives from the Governments in the
sub-region, CSOs, think tanks international
organisations and offered platforms for peer learning
and knowledge exchange, especially for the
countries in the sub-region presenting their VNR in
2025, including India.
NITI Aayog and the Ministry of Statistics and
Programme Implementation (MoSPI) also participated
in the global VNR workshops conducted by UNDESA
which acted as platforms for sharing good practices
and generating ideas for comprehensive and
inclusive VNR reports.
5 I F " T J B 1 B D J m D ' P S V N P O 4 V T U B J O B C M F % F W F M P Q N F O U
2025 held in Bangkok in February 2025, offered
further opportunities to interact with countries in the
region for knowledge exchange and experience
sharing on VNRs.
DIALOGUES WITH UNION
MINISTRIES AND STATE
h ³ È z Á X … z ni
GOVERNMENTS
India created a “SDG Task Force” in the beginning of its
SDG journey to bring the relevant Union Ministries, State
Governments and think tanks together to guide the
process of SDG adoption, implementation, monitoring and
reporting. The Task Force had proven to be instrumental
during the preparation of India’s previous two VNRs. In
January 2025, a meeting of the Task Force was held in
which Ministries, States, think tanks and international
organisations participated. This platform enabled lively
discussions on the efforts of the various stakeholders,
especially the ministries and the states, in SDG
implementation through the approaches of saturation,
convergence and targeting. The discussions in the
meeting provided valuable inputs to India’s VNR process
B O E U I F D P O U F O U T P G U I F 7 / 3 S F Q P S U T Q F D J m D B M M Z U I F
initiatives by the various levels of the governments,
including their programmes and policies for SDG
implementation.
SDG workshops organised by NITI Aayog in Jaipur,
Rajasthan, in March 2024 and Bhubaneswar, Odisha, in
February 2025, provided opportunities to all the
States/UTs, who play an instrumental role in SDG
implementation, to share good practices, and learn from
each other. Presence of other stakeholders viz. the UN
agencies, NGOs and private sector organisations
enriched the discussions and learnings in these sessions.
CONSULTATIONS WITH STAKEHOLDERS
24
CONSULTATIONS WITH
CIVIL SOCIETY
Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), Non-Governmental
Organisations (NGOs), and community groups are
pivotal in advancing the SDG agenda in a
participatory manner, thereby making their
involvement extremely valuable in the VNR
preparation process. Following the approach for VNR
U I J S U F F O T Q F D J m D Q P Q V M B U J P O H S P V Q T X F S F
J E F O U J m F E G P S G P D V T F E D P O T V M U B U J P O T B E I F S J O H U P U I F
core principle of “Leaving No One Behind”. Over a
thousand CSOs participated in this consultation
process, which was organised in phases across the
country. In February and March 2025, these CSO
networks led and conducted consultations at the
regional/ state and national levels. This effort resulted
in eliciting their issues, challenges, expectations and
recommendations, providing valuable grassroots
insights that strengthen the VNR report. A summary of
the insights from each of the CSO consultations is
outlined in the following section of this chapter.
Women
Youth
and
Adolescents
Children Farmers
Forced Labour
and Human
5 S B G m D L J O H
People
living with
HIV/AIDS
Migrants
and
Urban Poor
Scheduled
Tribes and
Adivasis
Senior
Citizens
Persons
with
Disabilities
Schedules
Castes
% F O P U J m F E
Nomadic
and Semi-
Nomadic Tribes
Transgender
Persons
LNOB GROUPS CONSULTED
CONSULTATIONS WITH STAKEHOLDERS
25
CONSULTATIONS WITH THE
PRIVATE SECTOR
The achievement of the SDGs requires private sector
contribution in a “whole-of-society” approach.
Different sectors and actors can work together in an
J O U F H S B U F E N B O O F S Q P P M J O H m O B O D J B M S F T P V S D F T
knowledge and expertise. A one-day consultation on
the “Role of the Private Sector in Accelerating SDG
achievement and Towards Viksit Bharat 2047” was
conducted in February 2025 which aimed to address
the role of private sector in social impact spending,
the corporate social responsibility mandate,
philanthropy and start-up ecosystems, as well as the
lens of responsible business practices. The
consultation saw over 100 stakeholders gather,
in-person and virtually, to provide comprehensive
views. To ensure feedback from a wide range of
industry stakeholders the consultation was also
supported by surveys sent to various private sector
stakeholders as well as one-on-one meetings to solicit
B E E J U J P O B M W J F X T X I J D I G F E J O U P U I F m O B M B O B M Z T J T P G
the role of the private sector in accelerating SDG
achievement. A summary of the learnings and
recommendations from the private sector consultation
is detailed in Chapter 6.
SUMMARIES OF
CONSULTATIONS WITH 13
POPULATION GROUPS
IDENTIFIED IN THE 2025
VNR
1. People Living with HIV/AIDS
As per the India HIV Estimations 2023 report the
estimated number of people living with HIV (PLHIV) in
India is approximately 2.5 million, with concentration
amongst certain subgroups referred to as key
populations. Youth aged 15-29 account for a
T J H O J m D B O U T I B S F P G U I F " * % 4 C V S E F O J O D M V E J O H
marginalised subgroups such as adolescents,
injecting drug users and migrant workers. There has
C F F O O P U B C M F Q S P H S F T T J O U I F S F D F O U Q B T U J O U I F m H I U
against HIV/AIDS, with adult HIV prevalence recorded
at 0.2 percent and annual new HIV infections
estimated at 66,400, a 44 percent reduction since
2010, compared to the global reduction rate of 39
percent. The current situation for people living with HIV
J T Q P T J U J W F M Z J O n V F O D F E C Z U I F E F W F M P Q N F O U P G
progressive laws such as the HIV and AIDS
(Prevention and Control) Act, 2017.
Challenges
Certain stigma and discrimination are faced by People
Living with HIV/AIDS, which might occasionally result
in exclusion from education, employment and other
important avenues. The need for improved access to
better health care, including Mental Health and
Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) was
highlighted during the discussions. Issues such as
bullying, exclusion and lack of support in schools,
which can affect the right to quality education and
personal development were also mentioned. In some
workplaces, practices that negatively affect career
progression, job security and access to stable
F N Q M P Z N F O U X F S F F O D P V O U F S F E C Z 1 - ) * 7 T % J G m D V M U J F T
in accessing social welfare programmes due to lack of
awareness among PLHIVs was cited as an area of
concern.
Recommendations
The 2025 engagements reported that the provision of
care and treatment has substantially improved,
ensuring availability and coverage for most
1 - ) * 7 T ø * O J U J B U J W F T T V D I B T $ P N N V O J U Z 4 Z T U F N T
Strengthening (CSS) and Community-Led Monitoring
(CLM) support robust participation of community
members, marking a positive shift from 2020, when
district and state-level PLHIV networks lacked
adequate support and faced restricted communication
channels for community engagement.
Further, during the 2025 consultations the importance
of having clearer guidelines and accountability
N F D I B O J T N T U P F O I B O D F B X B S F O F T T B N P O H P G m D J B M T
and within society were also highlighted. It was also
noted that there is scope for increased awareness
B N P O H T U 1 - ) * 7 F Y J T U T F O B C M J O H B D D F T T U P U I F C F O F m U T
of welfare schemes. Comprehensive health care
access including services related to NCDs, sexual and
reproductive health and mental health, could be made
more widely available to PLHIV, while youth-friendly
services for young PLHIV could also be ensured. It was
suggested that continued efforts to sensitise
healthcare workers may help discrimination and stigma
to be eliminated and enrolment processes to be
T J N Q M J m F E " E E J U J P O B M M Z J U X B T F N Q I B T J T F E U I B U U I F
enforcement of anti-discrimination laws and workplace
protections should be strengthened so that job security
and career progression for PLHIV can be ensured. For
the economic empowerment of the community, the
need for accelerating skill-building initiatives for PLHIV,
particularly the youth was highlighted.
CONSULTATIONS WITH STAKEHOLDERS
26
The consultations highlighted that community’s
livelihoods in rural areas can be improved by
leveraging schemes like MGNREGS. To enhance
healthcare, the issues that limit access to health
schemes like Ayushman Bharat may be addressed.
Educational materials could be updated to ensure
U I B U E J W F S T F J E F O U J U J F T B S F S F n F D U F E B O E
comprehensive sex education could be incorporated
into curricula so that awareness is raised, stigma is
reduced and infections are prevented. To encourage
attendance at educational institutions, better
implementation of anti-bullying policies and creation
of supportive spaces for gender non-conforming
students were recommended during the consultations
to support these students. The needs of gender
non-conforming students can be addressed by
Q S P W J E J O H T Q F D J m D U S B J O J O H G P S F E V D B U P S T B O E C Z
establishing district-wise counselling systems.
Awareness about Sexual and Reproductive Health
and Rights (SRHR) programmes and support
mechanism for those affected by gender-based
violence need to be spread among transgender
community. Though the rights of the transgender
community and its decriminalisation have been
progressively recognised, there is still scope for
further sensitisation. Comprehensive information
about the social welfare schemes can be made
available at various levels.
3. Senior Citizens
As per the Report of the Technical Group on
Population Projections (July 2020) the number of
senior citizens is likely to increase to 193.4 million by
2031. This dramatic increase from the 103.8 million
T F O J P S D J U J [ F O T S F D P S E F E J O U I F ø $ F O T V T I J H I M J H I U T
the urgency of addressing issues related to
healthcare, economic security and social integration
for older adults.
Challenges
Several issues are faced by the elderly community
J O D M V E J O H M B T U N J M F J T T V F T J O B W B J M J O H U I F C F O F m U T P G
various government schemes and a lack of
awareness about new schemes. Loneliness is widely
experienced, especially in rural areas where migration
by the younger generation has occurred.
2. Transgender Persons
Among the LGBTQI+ community, the transgender
population was formally recognised in the 2011
Census under a separate category of ‘other’
alongside male and female. Transgender persons
often face discrimination, violence and atrocities,
hence need special protection in society. To ensure
their protection The Transgender Persons (Protection
of Rights) Act 2019 and Transgender Persons
(Protection of Rights) Act 2019 were introduced.
Challenges
Access to healthcare services for the transgender
community is often constrained by the limited
capacities of health care providers, social stigma and
discrimination. Additionally, national data collection
methodologies could be further enhanced to ensure
that LGBTQI+ gender segregation data is better
captured for improved healthcare provisions. Stigma
and bullying are often experienced by gender
non-conforming students and employment
opportunities outside corporate sectors are generally
limited, indicating that targeted skill development
programmes, non-discrimination policies and
diversity hiring initiatives are needed. Development
P G T Q F D J m D M F H B M Q S P U F D U J P O T D B O N J O J N J T F
discrimination and exclusion to a great extent. Greater
stigma and fewer opportunities are experienced by
LGBTQI+ individuals in rural areas compared to their
urban counterparts. Requirement of adequate social
support systems for elderly LGBTQI+ individuals was
also underscored during the consultations.
Recommendations
Compared to 2020, communities reported progress in
the recognition and inclusion of transgender
individuals, particularly through the enactment of the
Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act in
2019. Furthermore, the SMILE (Support for
Marginalised Individuals for Livelihood and
Enterprise) Scheme has facilitated the establishment
of Transgender Protection Cells at both State and
District levels, along with a Transgender Welfare
Board at the State level. Initiatives such as the
National Portal for Transgender Persons and the
SMILE Portal have been launched to facilitate
T F M G J E F O U J m D B U J P O B O E B D D F T T U P H P W F S O N F O U
services, including safe housing, counselling and skill
development. These developments signal a shift
towards legal and social inclusion addressing some of
the issues highlighted in 2020.
CONSULTATIONS WITH STAKEHOLDERS
27
Cyber abuse is also faced by the elderly,
necessitating that digital training be provided and
user-friendly apps be created to safeguard against
cybercrime. In some urban areas, lack of
elderly-friendly transportation and infrastructure was
D J U F E B T B T J H O J m D B O U D I B M M F O H F G P S N P C J M J U Z 5 I F B C J M J U Z
P G N B O Z F M E F S M Z U P B D D F T T I F B M U I D B S F B O E U I F C F O F m U T
of social security schemes are constrained by limited
digital literacy.
Recommendations
Since 2020, there has been notable improvements in
their situation driven by government initiatives such as
Atal Vayo Abhyudaya Yojana (AVYAY), an umbrella
scheme that has components like the State Action
Plan for Senior Citizens and an Integrated Programme
for Senior Citizens scheme that is helping in setting up
of Homes to improve the quality of life of the Senior
Citizens. Additionally, the establishment of Senior
Able Citizens for Re-Employment in Dignity (SACRED)
portal has enhanced access to re-employment
P Q Q P S U V O J U J F T 5 I F ø " Z V T I N B O # I B S B U 1 S B E I B O . B O U S J
Jan Arogya Yojana has also been expanded to
provide health coverage to all the senior citizens aged
70 years and above, regardless of their income. The
F Y Q B O T J P O J T T F U U P C F O F m U B S P V O E N J M M J P O G B N J M J F T
including 60 million senior citizens, by providing them
with free health insurance coverage of up to 0.5
N J M M J P O Q F S G B N J M Z ø
Awareness campaigns to improve knowledge about
social schemes would help in better access and
utilisation of the schemes by the elderly. With the
government’s growing focus on geriatric care,
especially for non-communicable diseases, there was
a suggestion to provide specialised training and
capacity building of health care providers, which
would help in enhancing the quality of life of the
elderly. Inclusion of elderly care in the school curricula
may help ensure that greater care and respect for
older persons are fostered.
CONSULTATIONS WITH STAKEHOLDERS
28
Recommendations
The stakeholders felt that further strengthening of strict
enforcement of regulatory provisions is important so that
agencies such as AHTUs continue to act swiftly in the
J E F O U J m D B U J P O B O E Q S P T F D V U J P O P G U S B G m D L J O H D B T F T X J U I
U S B G m D L F S T C F J O H Q F O B M J T F E 4 U S F O H U I F O J O H U I F % J T U S J D U
Task Forces (DTFs), which act as key mechanisms for
coordinating inter-agency responses to forced and child
labour could be considered. Additionally, better
integrating efforts among different departments, child
protection units, and law enforcement agencies may
I F M Q U P Q S F W F O U U S B G m D L J O H B O E N P S F F G G F D U J W F M Z B E E S F T T
related issues. Cases of forced labour and child
U S B G m D L J O H B S F T P N F U J N F T G P V O E U P J O W P M W F P S H B O J T F E
networks spanning across state borders, for which
support at the national level may be required.
Raising awareness within communities along with
providing economic and social protection for families
who are at risk is important. Rehabilitation efforts that
focus on sustainable livelihoods may further support the
elimination of forced labour. Sensitisation of the private
sector in enforcing due diligence within supply chains
could be considered as it helps ensure that businesses
do not engage in child or forced labour. Additionally, the
regulation of placement agencies could be
implemented to prevent fraudulent recruitment
practices that can contribute to forced labour.
5. Migrants and Urban Poor
. J H S B O U T D P O U J O V F U P D P O U S J C V U F T J H O J m D B O U M Z U P L F Z
sectors such as construction, manufacturing and
domestic work. Post-COVID-19, there has been
increased visibility of internal migration and government
policy interventions aimed at addressing the needs of
migrants. Despite these efforts, many migrants remain
unregistered, resulting in the denial of labour rights and
T P D J B M T F D V S J U Z C F O F m U T 5 I F D P O T V M U B U J P O I J H I M J H I U F E U I F
need for a collaborative approach involving the
government, civil society, businesses, and migrants
themselves to build inclusive and resilient cities.
Challenges
Migrants sometimes face challenges such as
inadequate housing with limited secure storage. The
lack of accessible childcare can result in work
responsibilities being taken on by older children.
) R U F H G / D E R X U D Q G + X P D Q 7 U D I À F N L Q J
Article 23(1) of the Indian Constitution prohibits forced
labour reinforced by the Bonded Labour System
" C P M J U J P O " D U 5 I F * N N P S B M 5 S B G m D 1 S F W F O U J P O
Act, 1956, the Bonded Labour System (Abolition) Act,
1976, the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences
(POCSO) Act, 2012, and the Child and Adolescent
Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Act, 1986,
Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection) Act, 2000 (JJ
Act) collectively strengthen India’s legal framework
B H B J O T U G P S D F E M B C P V S B O E I V N B O U S B G m D L J O H
Additionally, Section 143 of the Bharatiya Nyaya
Sanhita (BNS), 2023 provides penal provisions for
T U S J D U Q V O J T I N F O U G P S B O Z P G G F O D F P G I V N B O U S B G m D L J O H
Section 144(1) of the BNS provides for the strict
punishment for the offence of sexual exploitation of
U S B G m D L F E D I J M E S F O
There have been proactive government measures to
combat the challenges of forced labour and human
U S B G m D L J O H " O U J ) V N B O 5 S B G m D L J O H 6 O J U T " ) 5 6 T
have been established across the country.
Collaboration with key institutions such as the National
Commission for Protection of Child Rights and the
National Human Rights Commission have further
S F J O G P S D F E F G G P S U T U P D P N C B U U S B G m D L J O H $ P P Q F S B U J P O
with neighbouring countries is being strengthened for
U B D L M J O H D S P T T C P S E F S U S B G m D L J O H 1 S P W J E J O H J N N F E J B U F
support to rescued children and workers, increased
collaboration among law enforcement agencies and
long-term rehabilitation programmes are
strengthening the overall response to human
U S B G m D L J O H B O E S F J O U F H S B U J P O
Challenges
Recognising the support being provided, the
stakeholders from CSOs mentioned that poverty, lack
of livelihood opportunities and limited awareness of
available job opportunities and safer migration
pathways could push vulnerable groups, particularly
X P N F O D I J M E S F O B O E S F G V H F F T J O U P U S B G m D L J O H G P S
exploitation including forced labour. The increasing
use of digital platforms to lure and deceive victims has
N B E F U S B G m D L J O H M F T T W J T J C M F X J U I N B O Z D B T F T H P J O H
undetected. Displacement due to climate-induced
E J T B T U F S T B O E D P O n J D U T M F B W F N J H S B O U T F Y Q P T F E U P
U S B G m D L J O H O F U X P S L T B T X F M M B T G P S D F E M B C P V S
CONSULTATIONS WITH STAKEHOLDERS
29
Receiving fair wages in line with the Minimum Wages
Act, excessive working hours, delayed payments and
exploitative labour practices are issues that are
sometimes faced by migrants. The growing
complexity of employer-employee relationships
including contract and subcontract arrangements
can make it harder for migrants to assert their rights.
In high-risk sectors, proper protective equipment and
access to healthcare are sometimes not provided,
J O E J D B U J O H U I B U T F D U P S T Q F D J m D T B G F U Z T U B O E B S E T B O E
regular medical check-ups could be considered.
Recommendations
Since 2020, the situation of migrants and the urban
poor in India has improved. Earlier the lack of
portability of government entitlements like the Public
Distribution System (PDS) restricted migrants’ access
to food and rations. By 2025, this issue has been
addressed. The One Nation One Ration Card scheme
I B T F O B C M F E P W F S D S P S F C F O F m D J B S J F T U P B D D F T T
subsidised food grains from any PDS shop across
India, ensuring food security regardless of location.
Affordable Rental Housing Complexes (ARHCs)
under PMAY have converted vacant
government-funded housing into rental units and
encouraged private sector involvement to build
affordable housing near employment hubs. This has
reduced commute burdens and improved living
conditions, addressing the lack of affordable housing
near workplaces. Additionally, the 2020 consultations
also highlighted the lack of social security for informal
workers. By 2025, the e-Shram Portal, with over 280
million registrations, has integrated unorganised
workers into a national database, facilitating access to
T P D J B M T F D V S J U Z T D I F N F T E J S F D U C F O F m U U S B O T G F S T B O E
J O T V S B O D F D P W F S B H F N B S L J O H T J H O J m D B O U Q S P H S F T T J O
addressing these vulnerabilities.
To promote effective coordination, the possibility of
establishing a national mechanism to help oversee
interstate collaborations has been proposed by
stakeholders. It is also suggested that it might be
C F O F m D J B M U P F O T V S F U I B U S F O U B M I P V T J O H E P S N J U P S J F T
and temporary shelters meet appropriate sanitation
and safety standards. Partnerships with the private
sector could be encouraged so that the availability of
affordable rental accommodations is increased. The
F 4 I S B N $ B S E J O J U J B U J W F J T S F D P H O J T F E B T B T J H O J m D B O U
step towards ensuring social security for unorganised
workers and it has been suggested by stakeholders
that state-level welfare board schemes be
strengthened and the portability of social protection
coverage be enhanced to improve effectiveness.
" E E J U J P O B M M Z U I F E F W F M P Q N F O U P G T F D U P S T Q F D J m D T B G F U Z
standards and the provision of free medical
check-ups and health cards for migrant workers, as
well as the extension of government healthcare
services to migrants in destination cities could
contribute positively to their health and well-being.
6. Scheduled Tribes and Adivasis
Scheduled Tribes (STs) in India constituting
approximately 8.6 percent of the population have
historically faced socio-economic issues including
poverty, limited access to education and healthcare
and social discrimination. Since 2020, there have
been notable improvements in their situation driven by
due to government initiatives such as the Pradhan
Mantri JANMAN Yojana which have enhanced access
to basic amenities, healthcare and education for tribal
D P N N V O J U J F T 4 J H O J m D B O U Q S P H S F T T I B T C F F O N B E F J O
recognising Adivasi rights through Scheduled Tribes
and Other Tribal Forest Dwellers (Recognition of
Forest Rights) Act, 2006 (FRA) and Panchayats
(Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act, 1996 (PESA),
though implementation could be strengthened further.
Increased awareness and advocacy efforts have led
to better representation in some areas. Despite these
advancements, issues in accessing basic services,
natural resources and sustainable livelihoods persist.
The erosion of traditional knowledge and cultural
practices is a concern.
Challenges
Scheduled Tribes rely on traditional agriculture and
forest-based activities for their livelihoods but face
limited access to markets. Many migrate due to the
lack of local employment opportunities at their native
place. Although initiatives like the Mahatma Gandhi
National Rural Employment Guarantee Act
(MGNREGA) address this issue, awareness about
other government schemes pertaining to the skill and
entrepreneurship development could help in better
employment opportunities. Enhanced promotion of
traditional livelihoods such as handicrafts and
traditional medicine can help preserve their cultural
heritage. In addition, preservation of indigenous food
systems and ecological knowledge need to be
strengthened.
CONSULTATIONS WITH STAKEHOLDERS
30
Recommendations
To encourage the development and empowerment of
Scheduled Tribe and Adivasi communities the
integration of indigenous knowledge into educational
D V S S J D V M B N B Z C F C F O F m D J B M & O I B O D J O H M P D B M
healthcare centres, involving trained Adivasi health
workers and extending the reach of mobile health
units to remote villages could help improve access to
healthcare. Further, the strengthening of rural roads,
electricity and sanitation facilities may be undertaken
to contribute to better infrastructure. Supporting
agroforestry and afforestation initiatives and
promoting community-led water conservation efforts could help protect natural resources. Enterprises based on non-timber forest products could be strengthened, skill development programmes could be aligned with Adivasi knowledge systems, and X F M G B S F C F O F m U T G P S N J H S B U J O H G B N J M J F T D P V M E C F ensured to open up economic opportunities. Legal recognition for traditional knowledge, weaving indigenous knowledge into school curricula and helping establish market connections for crafts, food products and herbal medicines may also play a valuable role in preserving cultural heritage.
CONSULTATIONS WITH STAKEHOLDERS
31
7. Children
According to UNICEF, India is home to 436.6 million
children under 18. The core legislation for child
protection in India is enshrined in four main laws: The
Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection) Act (amended in
2021); the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act (2006); the
Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act
(amended in 2019) and the Child Labour (Prohibition
and Regulation) Act (1986, amended in 2016). Recent
children-centric government policies and programmes
include the National Education Policy, 2020, Pradhan
Mantri Schools for Rising India (PM SHRI), Samagra
Shiksha Abhiyan and Pradhan Mantri Poshan Shakti
Nirman (PM POSHAN), among others.
Challenges
4 J H O J m D B O U Q S P H S F T T I B T C F F O N B E F J O * O E J B P O T F W F S B M
child-related SDG targets, though some gaps can be
observed. Indicators like anaemia among children,
learning outcomes in education and crimes against
D I J M E S F O N B Z C F O F m U G S P N S F O F X F E B U U F O U J P O 5 I F
rural-urban disparities and differences across
socio-economic groups are highlighted by some
indicators and may require additional focus. Although
laws and programmes aimed at child protection are in
place further strengthening of implementation is
required. In the case of POCSO (Protection of Children
from Sexual Offences) cases improved access to
justice has been noted; however, overall systemic
support for victims and their families can be further
enhanced. While sexual abuse of girls is addressed
under the POCSO Act, stigma and denial continue to be
issues in cases involving boys. Cyber abuse among
children is increasingly being recognised as a concern.
Mental health is being regarded as an increasingly
important issue. Need for development of
comprehensive data systems, particularly on child
protection, and generation of data disaggregated by
social groups were highlighted in the consultation.
Recommendations
It was felt by the stakeholders that data systems could
be strengthened particularly through inclusion of more
detailed information on socio-economic status and
disability, which can help create more inclusive policies.
5 I F T J N Q M J m D B U J P O P G E P D V N F O U B U J P O J T T F F O B T I B W J O H
the potential to make access to education easier for
children from vulnerable communities, including those
who are on the move. Training on equity, inclusion and
non-discrimination could be received by teachers to
better support students, with special attention being
given to children with HIV/AIDS. Inclusion of gender
equality lessons in textbooks and integration of related
themes into the curriculum can promote awareness.
Early childhood development and balanced nutrition
could also be regarded as important steps in
addressing malnutrition.
The improvement of child protection laws and their
enforcement is considered important for keeping
children safe at school. The streamlining of child
I F M Q M J O F T B O E U I F U J N F M Z S F Q P S U J O H P G U S B G m D L J O H D B T F T
can help ensure that timely support is provided. Simple
and safe ways to report gender-based violence are
likely to encourage help-seeking by victims. Continuous
monitoring, building of skills among frontline workers
and the involvement of children in planning and
decision-making were seen as ways in which
programme governance can be further strengthened.
CONSULTATIONS WITH STAKEHOLDERS
32
8. Persons with Disabilities
India has adopted a rights-based approach for
Persons with Disabilities (PwDs). The Rights of
Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 (RPD) provides
legal equality and protection against discrimination.
3 1 % J T B T J H O J m D B O U T I J G U G S P N U I F 1 F S T P O T X J U I
Disabilities (Equal Opportunities, Protection of Rights
and Full Participation) Act, 1995 as it provides various
rights and entitlements to persons with disabilities
such as right to equality and non-discrimination,
community life, protection from cruelty, abuse,
violence and inhuman treatment, access to justice,
home and family and reproductive rights, and creation
P G C B S S J F S G S F F F O W J S P O N F O U G P S 1 X % T ø 0 U I F S
supportive legislative instruments include the
Rehabilitation Council of India Act, 1992, the National
Trust for the Welfare of Persons with Autism, Cerebral
Palsy, Mental Retardation and Multiple Disabilities Act,
1999, the Mental Healthcare Act (MHCA), 2017, the
Right to Education Act (RTE), 2009 and the Protection
of Children from Sexual Offences Act, 2012. Policies
and schemes that focus on children with disabilities
include the Inclusive Education for Disabled at
Secondary Stage (IEDSS) scheme and the National
Education Policy, 2020. The Indira Gandhi National
Disability Pension Scheme (IGNDPS) aims to support
PwDs below the poverty line. The Accessible India
Campaign (Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan) is a nationwide
n B H T I J Q J O J U J B U J W F M B V O D I F E J O B O E B J N F E B U
achieving universal accessibility. Additionally, in the
last two decades the Supreme Court of India has
Q B T T F E T J H O J m D B O U K V E H N F O U T B E W B O D J O H U I F S J H I U T P G
PwDs on a range of issues.
Challenges
While a number of acts, policies and schemes are in
place in support of the Rights of Persons with
Disabilities Act, it has been described by the Supreme
Court of India that implementation could be
strengthened. Some gaps are observed in public,
healthcare and educational infrastructure, which may
result in limitations on mobility and access to essential
T F S W J D F T 3 F R V J S F N F O U P G T V G m D J F O U O V N C F S P G U S B J O F E
special educators and skill development programmes
have been cited to ensure better access of education
and vocational training. Issues related to accessing
water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) services are
sometimes encountered by certain groups, such as
women, girls and individuals with high support needs.
It was mentioned by stakeholders that even when
data is available, disaggregation by disability is often
lacking.
Recommendations
The 2020 engagements highlighted the necessity to
B E F R V B U F M Z B E E S F T T U I F T Q F D J m D O F F E T P G T U V E F O U T
with disabilities through the National Education Policy
(NEP). The 2025 consultations noted positive
Q S P H S F T T X J U I U I F 4 V Q S F N F $ P V S U S F B G m S N J O H U I F
rights of persons with disabilities (PwDs) to a
reasonable accommodation in education. This ruling
struck down outdated exclusionary rules for medical
admissions and emphasised functional assessment
over rigid disability criteria. Additionally, compared to
2020 there have been improvements in inclusion
within government schemes, with policies in States
like Bihar and Uttarakhand providing increased
support for startups and self-employment initiatives
involving PwDs.
The need for strengthening the enforcement of
disability rights and enhancement of data systems
were underscored for shaping effective evidence
based policies. Greater accessibility in public
infrastructure and transport can be promoted to
improve access to education, healthcare, and
employment opportunities. The capacities of
educators, healthcare providers, judiciary, and law
enforcement may be built through training, and the
extension of social protection to include rehabilitation
can offer more comprehensive care. Giving special
attention to girls and women with disabilities could
help ensure safe access to services and protection
from violence, with crisis centres being made more
accessible and appropriate training being provided to
staff. Additionally, the needs of PwDs may be
incorporated into disaster preparedness to promote
safety and well-being. Digital inclusion for PwDs could
be increased and processes for obtaining Unique
% J T B C J M J U Z * % 6 % * % D F S U J m D B U J P O B O E " B E I B B S N B Z C F
streamlined, particularly by addressing accessibility
features at enrolment centres. Finally, the ongoing
sensitisation and training for law enforcement and
K V E J D J B M P G m D J B M T N J H I U I F M Q U P F O T V S F U I B U
disability-related cases receive appropriate attention.
9. Women
The Constitution of India establishes a clear mandate
for equality, non-discrimination and social justice.
* O E J B I B T B M T P S B U J m F E N V M U J Q M F J O U F S O B U J P O B M
conventions that have a bearing on gender equality
viz. the Universal Declaration of Human Rights
(UDHR), 1948; Convention on Elimination of all Forms
of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW), 1979;
CONSULTATIONS WITH STAKEHOLDERS
33
the strengthening of barrier-free social protection for
marginalised women and gender-diverse workers are
considered important. Investment in
sex-disaggregated data could offer valuable insights
to address disparities.
Alternative approaches to implementing POSH for
women in informal work, both rural and urban could
be considered. Giving attention to the gendered
impact of AI and new technologies on work could
guide more equitable policies. Online gender-based
violence, covering cyber grooming, sextortion and
digital harassment are emerging concerns which
need attention. The integration of health and livelihood
concerns of migrant and vulnerable women into
climate change policies might help address
disproportionate risks. A rights-based and
choice-based framework in gender equality laws,
including equitable natal and marital property rights,
N B Z C F B E P Q U F E U P C F O F m U X P N F O B O E
gender-diverse persons. Availability of care
infrastructure could help support more women to shift
toward employment generation activities promoting
women-led development.
10. Farmers
4 J O D F U I F S F I B W F C F F O T J H O J m D B O U
improvements driven by government initiatives such
as the PM-KISAN scheme, which provides income
support, and the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana,
which offers crop insurance. Additionally, the
enhancement of institutional credit and the growth in
agricultural exports have contributed to better
m O B O D J B M T U B C J M J U Z G P S G B S N F S T % F T Q J U F U I F T F
advancements, persistent issues such as fragmented
M B O E I P M E J O H T X B U F S T D B S D J U Z N B S L F U J O F G m D J F O D J F T
inadequate storage and transportation facilities and
soil degradation continue to hinder progress.
Challenges
The protection of common lands, water resources,
and grazing lands are considered crucial for
livelihood security of farmers. Issues with access to
credit are experienced by small farmers and the
F Y Q B O T J P O P G N J D S P m O B O D F B O E D P N N V O J U Z C B T F E
credit systems might be a possible solution. Better
infrastructure support, including roads, cold storage
and processing units, was suggested for market
linkages and value-chain enhancement. Pastoral
communities that face fodder insecurity impressed
upon the recognition of pastoralism in policy
International Conference on Population and
Development Programme of Action (ICPD-POA),
1994; The Beijing Platform for Action, 1995; and the
Convention on Rights of the Child (CRC), 1989.
Challenges
% F T Q J U F B G m S N B U J W F B D U J P O C F J O H V O E F S U B L F O C Z U I F
government, deep-rooted patriarchal norms are still
prevalent in various forms in the Indian society. In
2022, it was observed that 48.4 percent of women
were not in education, employment, or training
(NEET), compared to only 9.8 percent of young men.
. F O U B M I F B M U I J T C F J O H J E F O U J m F E B T B O B S F B P G D P O D F S O
for women and requires attention. Non-communicable
diseases and Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights
4 3 ) 3 B S F S F H B S E F E B T P U I F S B S F B T X J U I T J H O J m D B O U
gender implications. In formal sector organisations
Internal Committees (IC) have been formed under the
POSH (Prevention of Sexual Harassment of Women at
Workplace) Act to address sexual harassment at the
workplace; however, a proper understanding of the
law is often not held by the committees. More focused
attention is needed to curb crime against women.
Legal and policy responses to cases of violence need
to address the root causes of violence and the needs
of the survivor. Increasing budgeting for women and
generation of gender-disaggregated data are seen as
D S P T T D V U U J O H N F B T V S F T U I B U N B Z J O n V F O D F Q S P H S F T T
on all SDGs.
Recommendations
Since the last VNR in 2020 a commitment towards
improving women’s representation in legislature has
been demonstrated by India with the passage of the
Women’s Reservation Bill in 2023. Programmes for
X P N F O T m O B O D J B M J O D M V T J P O D S F E J U B D D F T T B O E
entrepreneurship, housing and access to safe
drinking water and cooking fuel have been prioritised.
Through these initiatives, there has been a positive
shift in addressing women’s issues highlighted in
2020, such as the lack of recognition of discrimination
and violence faced by women and the need for
gender-responsive budgeting, has been observed.
Stakeholders noted that outcomes could be improved
by enhancing the budget support for adolescent
I F B M U I 4 3 ) 3 N F O U B M I F B M U I B O E H F O E F S B G m S N B U J W F
care. Gender sensitisation among healthcare
personnel, judiciary and law enforcement is regarded
as important. Prioritising access for vulnerable
women,especially in remote areas, helps ensure inclusivity.
Support for women in overcoming the digital divide and
CONSULTATIONS WITH STAKEHOLDERS
34
2017, address adolescent health challenges including
reproductive and sexual health, nutrition and
psychological problems. Social protection laws like the
Juvenile Justice Act, Prohibition of Child Marriage Act
and Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act aim
to safeguard young people. Employment and
entrepreneurship opportunities are promoted through
policies like the National Apprenticeship Policy, Atal
Tinkering Labs and National Career Services Portal,
while civic participation is encouraged through
programmes like the National Service Scheme and
Nehru Yuva Kendra Sangathan. Other schemes like PM
SHRI, Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan and various
scholarship programmes focus on retaining young
people in school, especially girls and marginalised
groups.
Challenges
Comprehensive health interventions in schools help not
only in ensuring healthy but also better health aware
future citizens. This can be ensured both in government
and private schools and colleges. Improvement of
working conditions in the informal sector facilitating
transition in work and aligning training programmes with
the evolving job markets are some of the important steps
for enhancing youth employability. Enhancing
participation of women in the work force and mitigating
impact of climate change on future prospects of youth
B S F T P N F P G U I F P U I F S B S F B T U I B U D P V M E C F O F m U G S P N
focused attention.
Recommendations
In 2020, vocational and skills-based training had limited
reach with particularly low participation among
marginalised communities and young women. By 2025,
skill development programmes have been expanded
T J H O J m D B O U M Z X J U I U B S H F U F E T D I F N F T G P S J N Q S P W J O H B D D F T T
for these marginalised groups. Similarly, youth mental
health, which was not being adequately addressed in
2020 despite growing concerns saw notable progress
by 2025 through the implementation of National and
State initiatives such as helplines, school-based
counselling programmes and peer-support networks,
S F n F D U J O H B Q P T J U J W F J O T U J U V U J P O B M T I J G U U P X B S E S F D P H O J T J O H
and addressing the psychosocial needs of adolescents
and young people.
School and higher education curriculum need to be
updated regularly to promote holistic education
including soft skills and global skills. Parent advisory
groups are required to be mainstreamed across
school administration systems. Efforts to build
frameworks. Issues related to legal protection, climate
D I B O H F J N Q B D U T B O E J M M F H B M m T I J O H Q S B D U J D F T B S F
F O D P V O U F S F E C Z m T I F S Z D P N N V O J U Z 3 F D P H O J U J P O P G
land ownership rights and access to women-friendly
N B D I J O F S Z X F S F J T T V F T J E F O U J m F E C Z X P N F O G B S N F S T
Recommendations
The promotion of multi-cropping and traditional
cropping systems, the improvement of access to
climate-resilient farm technologies and the expansion
of targeted credit programmes were recommended
as policy priorities. The strengthening of market
linkages can be supported through the development
of infrastructure, encouragement of e-commerce and
building of capacity for value addition. Water
management practices need to further integrate local
ecological knowledge.
5 I F G B S N F S T G F M U U I B U U I F F Y Q B O T J P O P G N J D S P m O B O D F
through community-based credit systems like SHGs,
the use of credit scoring models for borrowers with
M J N J U F E G P S N B M m O B O D J B M I J T U P S Z B O E U I F D P O U J O V F E
encouragement of entrepreneurship through
schemes such as Stand-Up India and Startup India
D P V M E I B W F B O J N Q B D U " E E J U J P O B M M Z U I F m O B O D J B M
empowerment of women farmers could be supported
through targeted credit programmes and by assisting
Farmer Producing Organisations (FPOs) in arranging
working capital or interest-free loans. The promotion
of innovation and gender-friendly post-harvest
machinery is seen as a way to help reduce the burden
on women and align with FPO marketing cycles. It
was highlighted by farmers that the strengthening of
supply chains for diverse grains and the
establishment of community-managed seed banks,
bio-input resource centres and custom hiring centres
could further support the shift to climate-resilient
agro-ecological practices.
11. Youth and Adolescents
India has the largest youth population in the world with
about 65% of its people under the age of 35. The
Government has aligned its adolescent and youth
centric policies with the SDG framework. Key
initiatives include the National Youth Policy, 2014,
which aims to empower youth to achieve their full
potential by focusing on education, employment, skill
development and health. The National Education
Policy, 2020, aims to increase the Gross Enrolment
Ratio in higher education to 50 percent by 2035.
Health initiatives such as the National Health Policy,
CONSULTATIONS WITH STAKEHOLDERS
35
evidence in sectors expected to create jobs in the
future and the revision of the National Skill
Development Corporation’s (NSDC) skill gap analysis
may be worth considering. Integration of Vocational
training into the school curriculum and creation of
career progression pathways for youth leaders will
enhance entrepreneurship. Adolescent-responsive
health services may be provided and helpline
numbers may be made responsive and functional.
Youth participation in local governance structures
could be strengthened and peer educators could be
empowered to advocate for change.
The strengthening of youth participation in local
governance structures and the empowerment of peer
educators to advocate for change may also be
advantageous. Youth exposure to policymaking
processes at the Panchayat and block levels may be
facilitated and training in green jobs could be
provided. In climate action initiatives, the
enhancement of community awareness and
communication regarding the relevant government
schemes might be prioritised.
12. Scheduled Castes
Scheduled Castes (SCs) in India having been
historically marginalised have faced socio-economic
challenges. Persistent efforts have been made over the
years to improve their social and economic conditions.
Since 2020, there have been notable improvements in
their position due to initiatives like the Development
Action Plan for Scheduled Castes (DAPSC) and
increased representation in government jobs. These
efforts have led to better access to basic amenities,
educational opportunities and economic upliftment.
Challenges
The challenges faced by the SC communities, inter-alia
include lack of awareness about healthcare provisions
and lack of access to clean water and sanitation.
Education programmes like the PM-Poshan and
scholarships for SC students aim to improve educational
outcomes, but high dropout rates, especially among
Dalit girls continue to be observed. Employment related
challenges include low wages, poor working conditions
and limited opportunities for skill development and
entrepreneurship. Health risks such as manual
scavenging might be faced by SC workers in informal
sectors where social protection is often lacking.
Recommendations
The 2020 community engagements had emphasised
the lack of disaggregated data for tracking SDG
progress among SC subgroups which hindered
targeted interventions. By 2025, the Ministry of
Statistics and Program Implementation has engaged
civil society organisations to enhance data collection
N F U I P E P M P H J F T G P D V T J O H P O 4 $ T Q F D J m D
disaggregated data aligning with the 2020
recommendation for community-led data generation.
Need for promotion of awareness about health rights
and government schemes have been highlighted to
empower the community. Allowance of alternative
access to healthcare schemes without primary
documents might be considered. Continuing to
T U S F O H U I F O B D D F T T U P m O B O D J B M J O T U J U V U J P O T B O E
improving banking infrastructure in rural areas may
support livelihood development. Skill development
and entrepreneurship programmes tailored to SC
communities might be introduced to increase
employment opportunities. Implementation of
measurable targets within government schemes and
F O T V S J O H U I B U C F O F m U T S F B D I N B S H J O B M J T F E H S P V Q T
could further strengthen economic inclusion and
growth of these communities. Free sanitary pads and
menstrual hygiene products might be provided to SC
women and girls to help improve reproductive health
and hygiene. The use of alternative energy and
climate-resilient agricultural practices among SC
communities can be promoted, and access to
resources for climate adaptation may be facilitated to
support their resilience and well-being.
' H Q R W L À H G 1 R P D G L F D Q G
Semi-nomadic Tribes
% F O P U J m F E / P N B E J D B O E 4 F N J O P N B E J D 5 S J C F T
(DNTs) in India, marginalised and stigmatised as
"criminals" under colonial laws struggle with issues
such as lack of access to education, healthcare and
secure livelihoods. Since 2020, there have been
notable improvements in their situation, driven by
initiatives like the Scheme for Economic
Empowerment of DNT Communities (SEED), which
provides health insurance, livelihood support and
educational opportunities.
Challenges
DNT communities face issues in accessing
education, healthcare and legal services. Lack of
particularly for girls. Employment and skill training
P Q Q P S U V O J U J F T J O U S B E J U J P O B M m F M E T T V D I B T U S B J O J O H stone workers in modern machinery for infrastructure projects or connecting Mahua (local alcohol) producers with pharmaceutical companies for medicinal purposes can be considered. Provisions for regular localised camps at the district level to issue essential documents, including caste and domicile D F S U J m D B U F T X P V M E G B D J M J U B U F % / 5 D P N N V O J U J F T B D D F T T to government schemes and services. The stakeholders recommended expanding Rajasthan’s MNREGA-linked folk artist employment model to national level and engaging DNT artists to perform in D P M M F H F T H P W F S O N F O U P G m D F T T D I P P M T B O E I P T Q J U B M T to promote both employment security and cultural preservation. These initiatives might lead to more stable income opportunities while helping to maintain and celebrate cultural heritage.
CONSULTATIONS WITH STAKEHOLDERS
36
awareness about access to residential schools and
reserved seats in existing schools for DNT children,
especially girls, limit their educational opportunities.
Additionally, the absence of essential identity documents
T V D I B T D B T U F B O E E P N J D J M F D F S U J m D B U F T G V S U I F S
N B S H J O B M J T F T % / 5 D P N N V O J U J F T N B L J O H J U E J G m D V M U G P S
them to access government schemes and services.
Recommendations
The 2025 consultations highlighted new initiatives such
as Rajasthan’s expanded MNREGA-linked folk artist
employment model which aims to provide employment
security and preserve cultural traditions, directly
addressing the earlier VNR consultation concerns about
recognising and supporting traditional skills and
livelihoods. To enhance educational outcomes for DNT
children providing access to DNT students in existing
ashram schools up to class 10 may be considered. Such
measures could improve access to quality education
and create a supportive learning environment,
particularly for girls. Employment and
skill training
P Q Q P S U V O J U J F T J O U S B E J U J P O B M m F M E T T V D I B T U S B J O J O H
stone workers in modern machinery for infrastructure
projects or connecting Mahua (local alcohol)
producers with pharmaceutical companies for
medicinal purposes can be considered. Provisions for
regular localised camps at the district level to issue
essential documents, including caste and domicile
D F S U J m D B U F T X P V M E G B D J M J U B U F % / 5 D P N N V O J U J F T B D D F T T
to government schemes and services. The
stakeholders recommended expanding Rajasthan’s
MNREGA-linked folk artist employment model to
national level and engaging DNT artists to perform in
D P M M F H F T H P W F S O N F O U P G m D F T T D I P P M T B O E I P T Q J U B M T
to promote both employment security and cultural
preservation. These initiatives might lead to more
stable income opportunities while helping to maintain
and celebrate cultural heritage.
CONSULTATIONS WITH STAKEHOLDERS
37
04
CHAPTER
04 India on the Move:
Progress on SDGs
With worldwide progress on Agenda 2030 in jeopardy,
India’s resilience to global headwinds and its steadfast
commitment to sustainable development has seen the
country emerge as a major driver of SDGs progress
C P U I S F H J P O B M M Z B O E H M P C B M M Z 0 W F S U I F M B T U m W F Z F B S T
since India’s last Voluntary National Review in 2020, a
series of overlapping and cascading crises have
derailed SDG progress globally along a wide range of
dimensions. The COVID-19 pandemic, rising
geopolitical tensions, climate-related disruptions and
economic headwinds have disrupted global
development across multiple dimensions.
India’s approach has been characterised by a deep
commitment to inclusive growth, Cooperative and
Competitive Federalism and environmental
sustainability. A strong macroeconomic foundation, a
robust digital public infrastructure and innovative
Figure 3: SDG Goal Wise Performance
social protection systems have enabled the country to
counter external shocks while maintaining steady
progress towards the SDGs. Targeted national initiatives
such as Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, Ayushman
Bharat-PMJAY, Ujjwala Yojana, Swachh Bharat
Abhiyan, PM-Mudra Yojana, Saubhagya and Start-up
India have contributed to the improvements in basic
T F S W J D F T M J W F M J I P P E T I F B M U I B O E m O B O D J B M J O D M V T J P O
4 % ( * O E J B * O E F Y 3 F Q P S U S F n F D U T U I J T U S B K F D U P S Z B T
the country’s composite score has steadily improved
from 57 in 2018 to 71 in 2023–24. This progress is
particularly visible in Goals such as No Poverty (Goal
1), Good Health and Well-being (Goal 3), Clean Water
and Sanitation (Goal 6), Affordable and Clean Energy
(Goal 7), Industry, innovation and Infrastructure (Goal
9) and Sustainable Cities and Communities (Goal 11).Source: SDG India Index 2023-24
100
90
80
70
60
50
40
30
20
10
0
2023-24
2020-21
2019-20
2018
72
60
50
54
52
47
35
48
77
74
61
52
61
57
58
58
49
48
42
36
68
61
64
65
89 83 88 63 96 92 70 61
61 55 65 44
65 67 52 71 83 79 53 39 78 74 55
67 54 50
75 66 66 90
74 74 72 71
Aspirant (0-49) Performer (50-64) Front Runner (65-99) Achiever (100)
SDG 1 SDG 2 SDG 3 SDG 4 SDG 5 SDG 6 SDG 7 SDG 8 SDG 9 SDG 10 SDG 11 SDG 12 SDG 13 SDG 15 SDG 16
72
52
77
61
49
89
96
68
61
65
83
78
67
7574
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, technology
and infrastructure
Reduced inequality
Sustainable cities and communities
Responsible consumption and production
Climate action
Life on land
Peace, justice and strong institutions
INDIA ON THE MOVE: PROGRESS ON SDGS
SDG Index Score, 0-100
40
Between 2018 and 2023–24, Uttar Pradesh, Jammu
and Kashmir, Uttarakhand and several North Eastern
and Central States recorded the highest
J N Q S P W F N F O U T J O D P N Q P T J U F T D P S F T 5 I J T S F n F D U T O P U
only policy effectiveness but also a competitive and
enabling environment at the subnational level that
fosters innovation, strengthens accountability and
promotes results-oriented governance among States
and Union Territories.
) L J X U H , Q G L D · V , Q G H [ 6 F R U H 6 W D W H 8 7 3 H U I R U P D Q F H
Achiever (100) Front Runner(65-99) Performer (50-64) Aspirant (0-49)
2018
(Baseline)
Score:57
2023-24
Score:71
Note: Results over the years are not strictly comparable owing to revision in the indicator.Source: SDG India Index 2023-24
India remains committed to further deepening its engagement with the 2030 Agenda, both as a national priority and as part of its broader contribution to global development discourse. Through continuous innovation, strong collaboration and an emphasis on outcomes, India will continue to serve as a driver of SDG progress, both domestically and globally.
INDIA ON THE MOVE: PROGRESS ON SDGS
41
01
GOAL
No
Poverty
Eradicating poverty in all its forms remains one of
humanity’s most daunting challenges. SDG1
encompasses the aim of eradicating poverty – not only
in monetary terms but also in all forms and dimensions
by 2030. The Government has adopted a strategic
approach to address each dimension of poverty which
involves targeting the most vulnerable, increasing
basic resources and services and supporting
communities. It calls for the continuous monitoring of
progress in social protection and implementing robust
social protection systems. The importance of
mobilising resources from a variety of sources,
including through enhanced development cooperation
is also important for the success of SDG 1.
INDIA’s STEADY PROGRESS
IN REDUCING POVERTY
Poverty is a multifaceted and complex issue
encompassing multiple dimensions such as health,
education and living standards. Global efforts to
F S B E J D B U F Q P W F S U Z I B W F C F F O I B N Q F S F E C Z T J H O J m D B O U
setbacks caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and a
series of major shocks. Yet in the face of global crisis
India’s contribution to global poverty reduction has
remained steady and focused.
India’s National Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI)
3
is a valuable tool that captures these simultaneous
deprivations across the 12 SDG-aligned indicators.
The National MPI Report 2023 provides granular data
on multidimensional poverty across 36 States/UTs and
over 700 districts in India. The National MPI assesses
progress towards SDG target 1.2 which aims at
reducing “at least by half the proportion of men,
women and children of all ages living in poverty in all
its dimensions”.
The National MPI Report 2023 highlights that the
incidence of multidimensional poverty reduced from
24.85% to 14.96% between 2015-16 and 2019-21,
resulting in 135 million people escaping
multidimensional poverty during this period.
% F Q S J W B U J P O T J H O J m D B O U M Z S F E V D F E J O B M M U I F
indicators – nutrition, child and adolescent mortality,
maternal health, years of schooling, school
attendance, cooking fuel, sanitation, housing, drinking
water, electricity, assets and bank accounts.
The Government's multifaceted approach in critical
sectors including education, nutrition, sanitation,
J … n ÎÏ r z … ¨ … à 0 « Á ç
cooking fuel, electricity and housing have played a pivotal role in driving these positive outcomes.
For instance, the PM Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY) provides
clean cooking fuel to rural women while PM POSHAN
programme is the largest school feeding initiative
globally, targets school enrolment and nutrition.
Initiatives like the PM Sahaj Bijli Har Ghar Yojana
(SAUBHAGYA), Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM) and
Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) have improved sanitation
and water facilities along with ensuring widespread
availability of electricity. Another critical dimension of
the Government's efforts has been the improvement
in living standards. Through schemes like the PM
Awas Yojana (PMAY), millions have been empowered
U I S P V H I B D D F T T U P T F D V S F B O E E J H O J m F E I P V T J O H 5 I F
Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY), launched in 2014,
U S B O T G P S N F E V O J W F S T B M m O B O D J B M B D D F T T C Z P Q F O J O H
over 500 million bank accounts, with over half
belonging to women. This initiative has been pivotal in
Q S P N P U J O H m O B O D J B M J O D M V T J P O B O E F N Q P X F S J O H
individuals across diverse socioeconomic
backgrounds.
The reduction in the MPI value has been pro-poor in
absolute terms. The rural areas saw the fastest
reduction in the MPI value, with the incidence of
poverty falling from 32.59% to 19.28% compared to a
reduction in the incidence of poverty from 8.65% to
5.27% in urban areas during the 2015-16 and
2019-21 period.
Bihar, the state with the highest proportion of
multidimensional poverty in 2015-16, witnessed the
largest absolute reduction in the incidence of
multidimensional poverty from 51.89% to 33.76%
between 2015-16 and 2019-21, followed by Madhya
Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh (See Figure 5). However,
Uttar Pradesh recorded the largest reduction in
absolute number of MPI poor with 34.3 million
escaping multidimensional poverty during this period.
43
J … n ÎÏ r z … ¨ … à 0 « Á ç
Figure 5: Percentage of the total population who are multidimensionally
S R R U L Q H D F K 6 W D W H D Q G 8 7 V
% of population who are multidimensionally poorNFHS-5 (2019-21) NFHS-4 (2015-16)
50.0% .0% 10.0% 15.0% 20.0% 25.0% 30.0% 35.0% 40.0% 45.0% 50.0% 55.0%
Bihar
Jharkhand
Meghalaya
8 W W D U 3 U D G H V K
Madhya Pradesh
Assam
Chhattisgarh
Odisha
Nagaland
Rajasthan
Arunachal Pradesh
7 U L S X U D
West Bengal
Gujarat
8 W W D U D N K D Q G
Manipur
Maharashtra
Karnataka
Haryana
Andhra Pradesh
7 H O D Q J D Q D
Mizoram
Himachal Pradesh
Punjab
Sikkim
7 D P L O 1 D G X
Goa
Kerala
Dadra & Nagar Haveli & Daman & Diu
Jammu & Kashmir
Ladakh
Chandigarh
Delhi
Andaman & Nicobar Islands
Lakshadweep
Puducherry
33.76%
27.79%
22.93%
37.68%
20.63%
36.57%
19.35%
32.65%
16.37%
29.90%
15.68%
29.34%
15.43%
25.16%
15.31%
28.86%
13.76%
24.23%
13.11%
16.62%
11.89%
21.29%
11.66%
18.47%
9.67%
17.67%
8.10%
16.96%
7.81%
14.80%
7.58%
12.77%
7.07%
11.88%
6.06%
11.77%
5.88%
13.18%
5.30%
9.78%
4.93%
7.59%
4.75%
5.57%
2.60%
3.82%
2.20%
4.76%
0.84%
3.76%
0.70%
0.55%
9.21%
19.58%
4.80%
12.56%
3.53%
12.70%
3.52%
5.97%
3.43%
4.44%
2.30%
4.29%
1.11%
1.82%
0.85%
1.71%
32.54%
28.82%
42.10%
51.89%
States 8 Q L R Q 7 H U U L W R U L H V
Source: National Multidimensional Poverty Index: A Progress Review 2023
44
Further, building on these results of the National MPI,
the Government and UNDP released a discussion
paper highlighting that multidimensional poverty is
expected to have declined from 29.17% in 2013-14 to
These results highlight that India is much ahead in
achieving SDG target 1.2 of halving multidimensional
poverty by 2030. The substantial progress in all
indicators of the National MPI which intersect across
multiple SDGs demonstrates the concerted efforts
made to achieve overall progress. This is attributable
to a multi-faceted strategy focused on empowerment
and inclusive growth. The Government’s policy
framework has been guided by the idea of “Sabka
Saath, Sabka Vikas”, which mirrors the core principle
of “Leaving No One Behind” (LNOB).
Figure 6: Proportion of population who are multidimensionally poor in India
55.34%
29.17%
24.85%
14.96%
11.28%
2005-06 2015-16 2019-21 3 5 2 - ( & 7 ( ' 3 5 2 - ( & 7 ( '
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
% of population who are multidimensionally poorSource: Multidimensional Poverty in India since 2005-06 – Discussion Paper I NITI Aayog
11.28% in 2022-23, resulting in 248 million people escaping multidimensional poverty during this 9-year period in India (See Figure 6).
These results are mirrored in the World Bank's data showing a substantial decrease in India's extreme poverty rate (living on less than $2.15 per day (2017 PPP)) from 16.2% in 2011-12 to 2.3% in 2022-23, lifting 171 million people above extreme poverty line over the decade
4
. Extreme poverty saw substantial
reductions in both rural areas (from 18.4% to 2.8%) and urban areas (from 10.7% to 1.1%) during this period narrowing the rural-urban gap from 7.7 to 1.7 percentage points—a 16 percent annual decline. (See Figure 7).
J … n ÎÏ r z … ¨ … à 0 « Á ç
x È n Á X ( X x 0 z ³ X … z n ¨ … à 0 « Á çK ÐÎÎÓsÎÔ r ÐÎÏ×sÐÏ
45
J … n ÎÏ r z … ¨ … à 0 « Á ç
While the global goal of ending extreme poverty by
2030 may not be reached with roughly 7 per cent of
the world’s population expected to remain in extreme
Q P W F S U Z Q S J N B S J M Z J O G S B H J M F B O E D P O n J D U T U B U F T J O
Sub-Saharan Africa, South Asia could stand as an
exception. Driven by India's rapid economic recovery
and targeted policy interventions, Southern Asia is on
track to be virtually free of extreme poverty by the
2030 deadline.
EXPANDING SOCIAL
PROTECTION
A key pillar of India’s dramatic reduction of extreme
poverty has been the extension of coverage by India’s
social protection system. ILO’s World Social
Protection Report 2024-26 has noted India’s progress
in enhancing social protection coverage,
acknowledging the doubling of India’s social
Q S P U F D U J P O D P W F S B H F D B T I C F O F m U G S P N J O
2021 to 48.8% in 2024
5
. As per Ministry of Labour and
Employment, nearly 920 million people, or 65% of the
population, are now covered by at least one form of
) L J X U H : R U O G % D Q N · V ( [ W U H P H 3 R Y H U W \ + H D G F R X Q W 5 D W L R V
0 æ Á « 0 x 0 ¨ … à 0 « Á çK ÐÎÏÏsÏÐ r ÐÎÐÐsÐÑSource: World Bank, India Poverty and Equity Brief, April 2025
16.2
2.3
18.4
2.8
10.7
1.1
0
5
10
15
20
2011-12 2022-23
f o t nec r e
populaŸon)
All-India Rural Urban
Headcount ratio
(per cent of population)
social protection, whether in cash or in-kind, through U I F H P W F S O N F O U T D I F N F T 5 I J T S F n F D U T B T J H O J m D B O U expansion of social assistance programmes targeting children and families.
Under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural
Employment Guarantee Scheme (MNREGS), India
provides for at least one hundred days of unskilled
manual work as a guaranteed employment in a
m O B O D J B M Z F B S B T Q F S E F N B O E S F T V M U J O H J O D S F B U J P O P G
productive assets of prescribed quality and durability.
It aims to strengthen the livelihood resource base of
the poor and proactively ensure social inclusion. The
total person days between FY 2014-15 to FY 2024-25
has been 30.29 billion which is 82% more than the
decade before 2014.
6
Additionally, participation of
women has increased steadily from 48 % in 2013-14
to 58.01 % in 2024-25
7
. More than half of the
permissible works taken up are related to agriculture
and agriculture allied works which contribute to food
security and around 40 % are related to natural
resource management and rural infrastructure works.
Year
Extreme poverty line ($2.15, 2017 PPP per day)
46
Self-help Groups (SHGs) are the driving force
behind rural development and women's
empowerment. Despite continuous efforts few
6 + * V F D Q V X V W D L Q W K H L U R S H U D W L R Q V S U R À W D E O \ I R U D
longer time. To address this as part of the Village
Sarthi initiative in Moradabad, Uttar Pradesh an
e-marketplace has been developed where
SHG-run e-stores are established at the village
level. These stores are interconnected through a
mobile app and a web-based platform facilitating
convenient access for both seller and buyer
“Didis” (SHG sisters). SHG Didi (Udyam Sakhi)
initiates the ordering process by gathering
INCREASING ACCESS TO
BASIC SERVICES
India has established ambitious and holistic goals for
poverty alleviation, moving beyond the monetary
poverty threshold. Recognising the multidimensional
nature of poverty, the Government is implementing
various welfare schemes focused on nutrition, health,
education, housing, drinking water, sanitation, skill
development and infrastructure like roads and utilities.
Sustained economic growth has played a crucial role
in reducing poverty over the years.
The universalisation of public healthcare has been
T J H O J m D B O U M Z F O I B O D F E C Z U I F " Z V T I N B O # I B S B U
Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY).
This scheme has effectively reduced Out-of-Pocket
Expenditure (OOPE) by increasing social security
measures and boosting primary health spending. In
2024, the Government expanded AB-PMJAY to
Q S P W J E F G S F F U S F B U N F O U C F O F m U T P G V Q U P 0.5 million
Q F S Z F B S U P ø B Q Q S P Y J N B U F M Z N J M M J P O ø T F O J P S D J U J [ F O T
aged 70 years and above, belonging to 45 million
families, irrespective of their socio-economic status.
As of March 2025, more than 369 million Ayushman
cards have been created under the scheme
10
and
n F Y J C J M J U J F T I B W F C F F O H S B O U F E U P 4 U B U F T 6 5 T U P V T F
U I F J S P X O E B U B C B T F T U P F Y Q B O E U I F C F O F m D J B S Z C B T F
To ensure old age protection, Pradhan Mantri Shram
Yogi Maan-dhan (PM-SYM), a pension scheme for
unorganised workers, was launched in February
2019. Total gross enrolment under Atal Pension
Yojana has crossed 70 million mark in October 2024.
8
5 I J T J T B n B H T I J Q T P D J B M T F D V S J U Z T D I F N F P G U I F
Government that aims to create a universal social
T F D V S J U Z T Z T U F N G P S B M M D J U J [ F O T F T Q F D J B M M Z U I F Q P P S U I F
underprivileged and the workers in the unorganised
sector.
Self-help Groups (SHGs) are the driving force behind rural development and women's empowerment. Despite F R Q W L Q X R X V H I I R U W V I H Z 6 + * V F D Q V X V W D L Q W K H L U R S H U D W L R Q V S U R À W D E O \ I R U D O R Q J H U W L P H 7 R D G G U H V V W K L V D V S D U W of the Village Sarthi initiative in Moradabad, Uttar Pradesh an e-marketplace has been developed where SHG-run e-stores are established at the village level. These stores are interconnected through a mobile app and a web-based platform facilitating convenient access for both seller and buyer “Didis” (SHG sisters). SHG Didi (Udyam Sakhi) initiates the ordering process by gathering demand from local SHG women and submitting it to the district through a web-based platform.
$ F H Q W U D O Z D U H K R X V H D W W K H G L V W U L F W O H Y H O K D V E H H Q V H W X S W R V W R U H L Q Y H Q W R U \ V X I À F L H Q W I R U D I R X U P R Q W K V X S S O \
for the village e-stores. This inventory consists of 60% branded FMCG products and 40% locally sourced SHG
products. Upon placement of an order the products are promptly delivered to the Mahila e-store within 24
hours. These products are delivered to local SHG women at a discounted rate leading to substantial savings
for the members of the SHG.
VILLAGE SARTHI: AN INITIATIVE IN MORADABAD,
È Á Á « ¨ « ( 0 ³ R Á … 0 x ¨ … á 0 « ³ 0 n Is R 0 n ¨ J « … È ¨ ³
The Government is also implementing the Deendayal
Antyodaya Yojana – National Rural Livelihoods
Mission (DAY – NRLM) across the country with the
objective of organising women from rural poor
households into Self Help Groups (SHGs) nurturing
and supporting them to increase their incomes and
escape abject poverty. As of February 2025, more
than 100 million rural women households have been
connected through the Mission to 9 million Self Help
Groups.
9
J … n ÎÏ r z … ¨ … à 0 « Á ç
47
Global SDG target 1.4 aims to ensure that every
person has access to basic services such as housing.
The Government is committed to building and
providing pucca (permanent) houses for the poor in
rural areas. 40 million houses have been constructed
in urban and rural areas under the Pradhan Mantri
Awas Yojana, a National Housing Scheme for
providing affordable housing. Under Pradhan Mantri
Awas Yojana - Gramin (PMAY-G), the Government
has set an ambitious target to build 33.2 million more
houses by March 2029, with 26.7 million houses
D P N Q M F U F E T J H O J m D B O U M Z J N Q S P W J O H U I F M J W J O H
conditions of millions of rural families. The scheme
has also placed a special focus on women
empowerment, with 74% of sanctioned houses
owned by women solely or jointly.
11
Skilled
F N Q M P Z N F O U I B T B M T P C F F O B Q S J P S J U Z X J U I ø B M N P T U
million rural masons trained in disaster-resilient
construction, boosting their employability.
In order to reduce poverty of the Schedule Caste (SC)
communities, the Government merged three erstwhile
Centrally Sponsored Schemes in 2021-2022, to
create Pradhan Mantri Anusuchit Jaati Abhyuday
Yojana (PM-AJAY) (Prime Minister’s Scheduled
Castes Upliftment Scheme). The focus is on reducing
poverty of the Schedule Caste communities by
generation of additional employment opportunities
through skill development, income generating
schemes and other initiatives and to improve
socio-economic developmental indicators by
ensuring adequate infrastructure and requisite
T F S W J D F T J O U I F W J M M B H F T X J U I B T J H O J m D B O U 4 $
population. During 2024-25, 4,991 villages were
declared as Adarsh Gram (model villages). The
selected villages are saturated with 50
Socio-Economic developmental indicators under 10
domains namely Drinking Water and Sanitation,
Education, Health and Nutrition, Social Security, Rural
Roads and Housing, Electricity and Clean Fuel,
Agricultural Practices, Financial Inclusion,
Digitisation, Livelihood and Skill Development, which
are the minimum requirements for any person residing
in a village.
In 2024, the Government approved Pradhan Mantri
Janjatiya Unnat Gram Abhiyan (Prime Minister’s Tribal
Inclusive Development Village Campaign) for
improving the socio-economic condition of tribal
communities by adopting saturation coverage for
tribal families in tribal-majority villages and
aspirational districts. The initiative aims to cover
B S P V O E W J M M B H F T C F O F m U U J O H N P S F U I B O
million tribal people across 549 districts and 2,740
blocks spread across all tribal majority villages across
30 States / UTs.
A paradigm shift in the public service delivery and the
implementation of schemes has been accomplished
by the Government through the promotion of digital
B O E m O B O D J B M J O D M V T J P O 5 I J T I B T C F F O F O B C M F E C Z
+ " . U S J O J U Z + B O % I B O m O B O D J B M J O D M V T J P O " B E I B S
V O J W F S T B M J E F O U J m D B U J P O B O E . P C J M F J O U F S O F U
penetration). JAM Trinity has enabled an extension of
D B T I C F O F m U T U P B O J O D S F B T J O H M Z X J E F H S P V Q P G
D J U J [ F O T S F N P W F E J O U F S N F E J B S J F T B O E M F E U P E J S F D U
U S B O T G F S P G C F O F m U T J O U P B O J O U F O E F E C F O F m D J B S Z T
bank account. Under the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan
Yojana (PMJDY) the unbanked have been brought
J O U P U I F G P S N B M m O B O D J B M T Z T U F N C Z F Y Q B O E J O H B D D F T T
to savings accounts, credit, remittance, insurance
B O E Q F O T J P O T * U I B T I F M Q F E P Q F O ø P W F S N J M M J P O
B D D P V O U T X J U I E F Q P T J U T S J T J O H U P ø` C J M M J P O ø C Z
January 2025.
12
MAINSTREAMING GENDER
IN PUBLIC SPENDING
Gender budgeting has also emerged as an important
D I B O O F M P G ( P W F S O N F O U T U B S H F U J O H P G m T D B M Q P M J D Z U P
reduce poverty. Gender budgeting monitors
expenditure and public service delivery from a
gender perspective as a means of mainstreaming
women's concerns in all activities and improving their
access to public resources. Since the gender budget
statement was introduced in 2005-06, more and more
Ministries/Departments are reviewing the
programmes and schemes to address the quantum of
resources that have the budgetary potential to impact
and address the development needs of women. The
6 O J P O # V E H F U S F n F D U T B T J H O J m D B O U S J T F J O
gender-focused allocations. The Gender Budget in FY
2025-26 constitutes 8.86% of the total budget,
increasing from 4.72% in FY 2020-21 (See Figure 8).
In 2025, a record allocation of `4.49 trillion has been
E F T J H O B U F E G P S X P N F O h T X F M G B S F S F n F D U J O H B
increase from FY 2023-24.
13
J … n ÎÏ r z … ¨ … à 0 « Á ç
48
Figure 8: Proportion of budget earmarked under gender budget
Be it DBT, or plans to provide facilities like electricity, water, toilets to poor people, all these have
C S P V H I U B S F W P M V U J P O B U U I F H S B T T S P P U T M F W F M 5 I F T F T D I F N F T I B W F m M M F E U I F Q P P S F T U P G U I F Q P P S J O
the country with a sense of respect and security.
+ R Q · E O H 3 U L P H 0 L Q L V W H U R I , Q G L D
4.46
4.58
5.68
4.99 4.91
4.72
4.40 4.33
5.00
6.50
8.8
0
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
100
500
1000
1500
2000
2500
3000
3500
4000
4500
5000
2015-16 2016-17 2017-18 2018-19 2019-20 2020-21 2021-22 2022-23 2023-24 2024-25 2025-26
Proportion of total budget (%)
Gender Budget Allocation (` billion)
Gender budget allocation (Rs. billions)
Proportion of total budget (%, rhs) 4 P V S D F & Y Q F O E J U V S F 1 S P m M F 4 U B U F N F O U B O E 4 U B U F N F O U % F Q B S U N F O U P G & D P O P N J D " G G B J S T
Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Women and Child Development, and Union Budget 2025-26
“
”
J … n ÎÏ r z … ¨ … à 0 « Á ç
49
WAY FORWARD
India is expected to achieve the SDG Target 1.2 (of
reducing multidimensional poverty by at least half)
much ahead of the stipulated timeline of 2030. It
demonstrates the Government’s strategic focus on
ensuring sustainable and equitable development and
eradicating poverty by 2030, thereby adhering to its
commitment towards the SDGs. The Government is
focused on addressing disparities in the poverty
levels among States and managing the challenges
B S J T J O H G S P N S B Q J E V S C B O J T B U J P O O P U B C M Z S F n F D U F E J O
the mismatch between demand and supply for
housing, infrastructure, job opportunities and
essential services.
Since climate change tends to impact vulnerable
communities more, supporting resilient livelihoods
U I S P V H I D M J N B U F T N B S U B H S J D V M U V S F E S P V H I U Q S P P m O H
B O E H S F F O K P C T ø J T F Y Q F D U F E U P C F D P N F N P S F
important.
India will further enhance its role as a knowledge
partner on poverty reduction, especially with the
countries in the Global South through platforms like
the Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty,
* O E J B # S B [ J M 4 P V U I " G S J D B * # 4 " % J B M P H V F ' P S V N F U D
In this context, sharing best practices in digital
governance, rural development and DBT
mechanisms will contribute to global progress.
Consistent implementation across a diverse set of
programmes and initiatives that have strong
J O U F S M J O L B H F T X J M M D P O U J O V F U P M F B E U P T J H O J m D B O U
reduction in deprivations across multiple indicators.
India will continue to prioritise the reduction of
poverty, enhancement of incomes, improvement of
living standards and the overall ease of living for all
D P N N V O J U J F T 5 I J T S F n F D U T U I F ( P W F S O N F O U h T
V O X B W F S J O H D P N N J U N F O U U P J N Q S P W J O H D J U J [ F O T M J W F T
and creating a brighter future for all.
J … n ÎÏ r z … ¨ … à 0 « Á ç
50
02
GOAL
Zero
Hunger
SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) strives to eradicate hunger,
achieve food security, enhance nutrition and foster
sustainable agriculture. It not only addresses hunger
itself but also tackles its root causes, including
J O F R V B M J U Z D M J N B U F D I B O H F B O E J O F G m D J F O U B H S J D V M U V S B M
practices. The overarching goal of SDG 2 is to
eliminate all forms of hunger and malnutrition by 2030,
ensuring that everyone, particularly those in
W V M O F S B C M F T J U V B U J P O T I B W F B D D F T T U P T V G m D J F O U
nutritious food.
Moreover, it aims to double agricultural productivity by
2030, promote decent incomes, facilitate
people-centred rural development, maintain genetic
diversity of seeds, plants and farmed animals,
strengthen the capacity for climate change adaptive
agriculture and safeguard the environment. Key
measures such as promoting sustainable agriculture,
supporting small-scale farmers and ensuring
equitable access to land, technology and markets are
crucial for ending hunger and poverty. Achieving this
goal also necessitates international cooperation to
invest in infrastructure and technology for improving
agricultural productivity.
INCREASING RESILIENCE OF
I … … (s ³ 0 ( ³ I 0 Á ç z 0 Á ³
The Government of India has undertaken various
initiatives to guarantee food for all, launching one of
the world’s largest food security programmes through
the National Food Security Act, 2013. While many
countries faced challenges to the availability and
affordability of food both during the COVID-19
lockdowns (2020-21) and sharp rise in prices of food,
fuels and fertilizers in 2022, India’s human centric
food-based safety net – the Targeted Public
Distribution System (TPDS) – was a source of
resilience and stability for the country. Despite facing
numerous obstacles during the COVID-19 lockdowns,
the country launched the Pradhan Mantri Garib
Kalyan Anna Yojana (PMGKAY), allocating free food
H S B J O T J O B E E J U J P O U P S F H V M B S 5 1 % 4 X J U I U I F T Q F D J m D
purpose of ameliorating the hardships faced by the
poor and needy due to economic disruptions caused
by the COVID-19 outbreak. In 2024, the Government
decided to extend further the distribution of free of
D P T U G P P E H S B J O T G P S m W F B E E J U J P O B M Z F B S T J F V O U J M
and as of December 2024, 806.7 million people are
receiving food grains free of cost.
14
India has also implemented the One Nation One
Ration Card (ONORC) plan for nation-wide portability
of ration cards under the National Food Security Act,
/ ' 4 " 6 O E F S U I J T Q M B O B O Z C F O F m D J B S Z D B O
take delivery of food grains from any Fair Price Shop
at uniform NFSA entitlement and price across the
country. At the end of 2024, more than 25 million
portability transactions were being recorded every
month under PMGKAY foodgrain distribution.
15
ENHANCING
J « X ! È n Á È « n
¨ « … ( È ! Á X à X Á ç z (
X x ¨ « … à X z J I « x 0 « ³
INCOME
Food grain production has surged from 204.6 million
tonnes (2004-05) to an estimated 332.3 million tonnes
(2023-24), with enhanced productivity and Minimum
Support Price (MSP) revisions ensuring better farmer
incomes (See Figure 9). India's foodgrain production
I B T T F F O B T U F B E Z S J T F P W F S U I F Z F B S T S F n F D U J O H
improvements in agricultural productivity and policy
support. In 2004-05, total foodgrain production stood
at 204.6 million tonnes (4th advance estimates). This
increased to 252 million tonnes in 2014-15 and further
surged to an estimated 332.3 million tonnes in
2023-24.
16
J … n ÎÐ r ñ 0 « … R È z J 0 «
53
Additionally, the dairy sector has emerged as a
crucial pillar of the rural economy, playing a
key role in ensuring nutritional security,
improving livelihoods and enabling inclusive
economic growth. India has held the top
position in global milk production since 1998
and now accounts for a quarter of the world’s
total milk output. Over the past decade, milk
production in the country has surged by
63.56%, rising from 146.3 million tonnes in
2014-15 to 239.2 million tonnes in 2023-24,
S F n F D U J O H B O B W F S B H F B O O V B M H S P X U I S B U F P G
5.7%. In comparison, global milk production is
increasing at a rate of 2% per year. Additionally,
the per capita availability of milk in India has
grown by 48% in the last ten years, reaching
over 471 grams per person per day in 2023-24,
compared to the global average of 322 grams
per person per day (See Figure 10).
17
These
Figure 9: Production of Major Crops
204.6
252
332.3
0
50
100
150
200
250
300
350
2004-05 2014-15 2023-24
Million Tonnes
achievements have been made possible through the rollout of initiatives like the National Programme for Dairy Development (NPDD), National Livestock Mission (NLM), Rashtriya Gokul Mission, Animal Husbandry Infrastructure Development Fund (AHIDF) and Supporting Dairy Cooperatives and Farmer Producer Organisations involved in dairy activities (SDCFPO), among others. These initiatives support and enhance the efforts of the State Governments. Women are pivotal in India’s dairy industry, making up nearly 69% of the workforce in the livestock and animal I V T C B O E S Z 5 I F J S T J H O J m D B O U J O W P M W F N F O U J O U I F governance of dairy cooperatives, including leadership positions on management committees and milk unions, has contributed to the inclusive growth of dairy development throughout the country.
Source: Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Government of India
J … n ÎÐ r ñ 0 « … R È z J 0 «
54
The annual growth rate of real GVA in the agriculture,
G P S F T U S Z B O E m T I J O H T F D U P S I B T T I P X O n V D U V B U J P O T
over the years. However, the sector had gained
momentum over the last decade, with growth in real
Figure 10: Milk production and per capita availability of milk in India
0
50
100
150
200
250
300
350
400
450
500
2015-16 2016-17 2017-18 2018-19 2019-20 2020-21 2021-22 2022-23 2023-24
Years
Milk Production/ Per Capita Availability
Production (Million Tonnes) Per Capita Availability (gms/day)
Figure 11: Annualized Growth Rate of Real GVA in Agriculture in last two decades
3.4%
4.4%
2004-05 to 2014-15 2014-15 to 2024-25
0.05
0.04
0.03
0.02
0.01
0.00
GVA rising to an estimated 4.4% from 2014-15 to
4 F F ' J H V S F 5 I J T S F n F D U T J N Q S P W F E
F G m D J F O D Z N F D I B O J T B U J P O B O E E J W F S T J m D B U J P O J O
agricultural activities.
Source: Basic Animal Husbandry Statistics, MoFAHD, DAHD, GoI
Annualized growth rate (%) at constant 2011-12
Source: Calculations based on MoSPI National Accounts Division statistics.
J … n ÎÐ r ñ 0 « … R È z J 0 «
55
The Government is pursuing initiatives such as Per
Drop More Crop (PDMC) and various actions under
the National Mission on Sustainable Agriculture
(NMSA). These measures include using alternative
and organic fertilisers to enhance productivity and
sustainability. Additionally, the Government provides
income support to farmers through assured
remunerative prices for their produce alongside
programmes such as the Pradhan Mantri Kisan
Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN).
1 . , * 4 " / J T Q S P W J E J O H B O O V B M m O B O D J B M B T T J T U B O D F U P
farmers. The aim is to increase production, reduce the
cost of production, ensure fair prices for produce,
compensate for crop losses, diversify agriculture and
reduce costs. Today, PM KISAN is one of the largest
E J S F D U C F O F m U U S B O T G F S T D I F N F T J O U I F X P S M E % V S J O H
the 19th instalment in February 2025, over 98 million
farmers including 24.1 million female farmers
S F D F J W F E E J S F D U m O B O D J B M B T T J T U B O D F F Y D F F E J O H `220
billion through DBT
18
0 W F S P G U I F C F O F m D J B S J F T
are small and marginal farmers and every fourth
C F O F m D J B S Z J T B X P N B O ' B S N F S D F O U S J D E J H J U B M
J O G S B T U S V D U V S F I B T F O T V S F E U I F 1 . , * 4 " / C F O F m U T
reach all the farmers across the country without
involvement of any intermediaries. Farmers can
register grievances on a dedicated portal and take
the help of a 24x7 call facility or use Kisan e-mitra, a
voice-based AI Chatbot available in 12 languages.
IFPRI conducted an independent study of PM-KISAN,
which found that the funds received under this
scheme have helped farmers overcome debt barriers
and increased their risk-taking capacity. Additionally,
Kisan Credit Card (KCC) provides farmers timely and
affordable credit for purchasing agricultural inputs
such as seeds, fertilisers and pesticides, as well as for
meeting cash requirements related to crop production
and allied activities.
Digital initiatives like the Digital Agriculture Mission
and the e-National Agriculture Market (e-NAM) have
been launched to encourage the adoption of
innovative agricultural technologies and improve
price discovery mechanisms. Digital Agriculture
Mission launched in 2024 facilitates a robust digital
agriculture ecosystem in the country for driving
innovative farmer-centric digital solutions and making
available timely and reliable crop-related information
to all the farmers in the country. The Mission creates
Digital Public Infrastructure for Agriculture such as
Agristack, Krishi Decision Support System,
$ P N Q S F I F O T J W F 4 P J M ' F S U J M J U Z B O E 1 S P m M F . B Q B O E
! ! 0 n 0 « Á X z J
³ È ³ Á X z n 0 J « X ! È n Á È « 0
India has made notable strides in ensuring food
security, maintaining the availability of food and
promoting sustainable agriculture. The emphasis on
sustainable agriculture is evident through initiatives
like the National Mission on Sustainable Agriculture
(NMSA), a part of the National Action Plan on Climate
Change (NAPCC). The NMSA aims to evolve and
implement strategies to make Indian agriculture more
S F T J M J F O U U P U I F D I B O H J O H D M J N B U F ø 6 O E F S / . 4 " U I F
Per Drop More Crop aims to improve on-farm water
V T F F G m D J F O D Z F O I B O D F U I F B E P Q U J P O P G Q S F D J T J P O
irrigation and other water saving technologies for
X I J D I T V C T J E Z J T C F J O H Q S P W J E F E U P U I F C F O F m D J B S Z U P
increase the area under micro irrigation.
In addition, the Government is promoting organic
farming in the country since 2015-16 through the
schemes of Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY)
and Mission Organic Value Chain Development for
North Eastern Region (MOVCDNER). This has led to
an increase in the organic farming area in the country
(See Figure 12). End-to-end support to farmers in all
States/UTs engaged in organic farming is provided
G S P N Q S P E V D U J P O U P Q S P D F T T J O H D F S U J m D B U J P O B O E
marketing and post-harvest management. Farmers
receive training and capacity building as well as
incentives for producing and using organic
fertilisers/manure. The scheme Bharatiya Prakritik
Krishi Paddhati Programme (BPKP) aims to promote
traditional indigenous practices and to create
awareness among farmers. Mission for Integrated
Development of Horticulture (MIDH), Agroforestry and
National Bamboo Mission also aim to increase climate
resilience. The Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana
(PMFBY) provides a fully insured amount on crop
losses due to natural calamities. Today, it is the world’s
largest crop insurance scheme in terms of farmer
enrolment and third largest scheme in terms of
insurance premium collected. Farmer enrolment
increased by 28 % in 2023-2024, compared to
C F O F m U U J O H O F B S M Z N J M M J P O G B S N F S T * U T
success has meant that Governments of Jordan and
Ecuador have requested India’s technical assistance
in developing similar crop insurance schemes in their
own countries.
other IT initiatives, in collaboration with State
Governments, aiming to cover farmers and their lands
within three years (2024-2027).
J … n ÎÐ r ñ 0 « … R È z J 0 «
56
Figure 12: Organic Farming Area
0.58
1.36
2.2
5.8
8.41
11.91
10.36
8.03
8.74
5.04
7.23
11.84
14.9
14.43
17.86
19.38
22.99
26.6
47.26
53.91
44.75
0
1
2
3
4
5
6
2003-04
2004-05
2005-06
2006-07
2007-08
2008-09
2009-10
2010-11
2011-12
2012-13
2013-14
2014-15
2015-16
2016-17
2017-18
2018-19
2019-20
2020-21
2021-22
2022-23
2023-24
Million hectares
Source: ICAR IIFSR Annual Report 2023-24
In 2024, the Government launched the National
Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF). NMNF has been
M B V O D I F E B T B T I J G U U P T D J F O U J m D B M M Z S F W J W F B O E
strengthen agriculture practices towards
sustainability, climate resilience and healthy food for
farmer families and consumers.
The Government has also conducted a
comprehensive review of agricultural research
infrastructure to enhance productivity. As part of this
initiative, 109 new high-yielding and climate-resilient
W B S J F U J F T I B W F C F F O J O U S P E V D F E B D S P T T m F M E B O E
horticultural crops for farmers. The Government plans
to transition 10 million farmers to natural farming and
Q S P W J E F T V Q Q P S U G P S D F S U J m D B U J P O B O E C S B O E J O H
Additionally, 10,000 bio-input resource centres are
being set up to facilitate this transition. To achieve
T F M G T V G m D J F O D Z J O Q V M T F T B O E P J M T F F E T U I F
Government is focusing on improving production,
storage and marketing, with particular emphasis on
oilseeds such as mustard, groundnut, sesame,
T P Z C F B O B O E T V O n P X F S
Year
J … n ÎÐ r ñ 0 « … R È z J 0 «
57
Rajasthan’s Food and Nutrition Security Analysis dashboard, launched in 2024, serves as one stop
platform to visualise and assess regional patterns of food insecurity and malnutrition in Rajasthan and
identify the most food insecure geographies and population groups with regards to food security. The
E B T I C P B S E F O B C M F T F W J E F O D F C B T F E N P O J U P S J O H B O E J E F O U J m D B U J P O P G W V M O F S B C M F I P U T Q P U T G P S T U S B U F H J D
planning and targeted action for achieving ‘Zero Hunger’ in the state of Rajasthan.
0 z R z ! X z J J « X ! È n Á È « n
X z I « ³ Á « È ! Á È « 0 z (
Á « ( 0
The government has prioritised agricultural
infrastructure and trade as a key strategy to increase
farmers' livelihoods. These efforts are intended not
only to increase productivity but also to ensure
long-term economic stability, improved living
standards for farmers across the country and a
sustainable and resilient agricultural ecosystem.
To improve storage facilities, the Government is
implementing the Agricultural Marketing Infrastructure
(AMI) scheme, a component of the Integrated
Scheme for Agricultural Marketing (ISAM). This
scheme provides assistance for the construction or
renovation of godowns and warehouses in rural areas
to boost agricultural storage capacity. In 2020, the
Agriculture Infrastructure Fund (AIF) scheme was
launched to enhance post-harvest management
infrastructure, minimise losses, increase farmers'
income and bring innovation to agriculture. The
Government is also implementing the National
Agriculture Market (e-NAM), a virtual platform
integrating physical wholesale mandis/ markets of
different States/ UTs to facilitate online trading of
agricultural commodities through transparent price
discovery method to enable farmers to realise better
remunerative prices for their produce.
Additionally, under the Mission Organic Value Chain
Development for North Eastern Region, the
( P W F S O N F O U J T E F W F M P Q J O H D P N N P E J U Z T Q F D J m D
D P O D F O U S B U F E D F S U J m F E P S H B O J D Q S P E V D U J P O D M V T U F S T
This is being developed in value chain mode to link
growers with consumers and to support the
development of the entire value chain starting from
J O Q V U T T F F E T D F S U J m D B U J P O U P U I F D S F B U J P O P G G B D J M J U J F T
for collection, aggregation, processing, marketing
B O E C S B O E C V J M E J O H J O J U J B U J W F 5 I F N J T T J P O X J M M C F O F m U
Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya,
Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim, and Tripura.
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58
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Improving nutrition is also an important focus of
governments’ efforts to make progress towards Zero
Hunger. With India no longer being a net food
importing country, the rise in agricultural productivity
and stronger food value chains are also helping
improve diets and reduce hunger across the country.
In addition to India’s strong food-based safety nets,
the country’s nutrition programmes like Pradhan
Mantri Poshan Shakti Nirman (PM POSHAN),
Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) and
Poshan Abhiyaan have been drivers in reducing the
proportion of children under 5 years who are
underweight, stunted and wasted between Round 4
(2015-16) and Round 5 (2019-21) of the National
Family Health Survey (See Figure 13).
Launched in 2018, POSHAN Abhiyaan (National
/ V U S J U J P O . J T T J P O J T * O E J B h T n B H T I J Q Q S P H S B N N F U P
improve nutritional outcomes for children, pregnant
women and lactating mothers. The acronym POSHAN
(PM’s Overarching Scheme for Holistic Nourishment)
spells out the government’s strategy to tackle
malnutrition. The programme aims to ensure
service-delivery and interventions by using
technology, behavioural change through
D P O W F S H F O D F B O E T F U U J O H T Q F D J m D U B S H F U T U P C F
achieved across different monitoring parameters. By
integrating technology, cross-sectoral collaboration,
and community-driven efforts, the programme has
N B E F T J H O J m D B O U T U S J E F T J O J N Q S P W J O H N B U F S O B M B O E
child nutrition.
For maximising the nutritional outcomes, the
Government has launched ‘Saksham Anganwadi and
Poshan 2.0’ (Mission Poshan 2.0), which subsumes
POSHAN Abhiyaan, Supplementary Nutrition
Programme under Anganwadi Services and Scheme
for Adolescent Girls. The objectives of Mission Poshan
2.0 are to contribute to human capital development,
address malnutrition, promote nutrition awareness,
and good eating habits to address nutrition related
E F m D J F O D J F T . J T T J P O 1 P T I B O J T Q S P W J E J O H W B S J P V T
C F O F m U T J O D M V E J O H T V Q Q M F N F O U B S Z O V U S J U J P O J O U I F G P S N
of hot cooked meals and take-home ration to
B Q Q S P Y J N B U F M Z N J M M J P O F O E C F O F m D J B S J F T N J M M J P O
children aged six and under, 10.6 million women,
including pregnant women and lactating mothers and
2.3 million adolescent girls.) Additionally, growth
monitoring of more than 85 million children under 6
years of age is being done regularly.
19
Social and behavioural changes have been promoted
by community-based events, Poshan Maah and
1 P T I B O 1 B L I X B E B J O Q B S U O F S T I J Q X J U I U I F W B S J P V T ø
. J O J T U S J F T % F Q B S U N F O U T B O E P U I F S T U B L F I P M E F S T ø 0 W F S
300 million community sensitisation activities were
conducted in 2024.
A Poshan Tracker has been introduced to track
real-time data collected by Anganwadi workers on
stunting, wasting and under- weight prevalence
among children. It tracks nutrition service delivery at
Anganwadi Centres and uses Aadhaar to link
C F O F m D J B S J F T G P S B D D V S B U F U S B D L J O H 5 I J T E B U B B J E T J O
effective planning, monitoring and timely
interventions, enabling the Mission Poshan 2.0 to
assess programme impact and provide feedback and
ensure targeted actions.Source: National Family Health Survey, Rounds 3, 4 and 5
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
Stunting Wasting Underweight
Percentage
Figure 13: Select indicators of nutritional progress for children under 5 years old
Indicator
NFHS-3 (2005-06) NFHS-4 (2015-16) NFHS-5 (2019-21)
59
In 2021, the World Bank conducted a survey in 11
priority states (Andhra Pradesh, Bihar,
Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Jharkhand, Karnataka,
Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Tamil
Nadu and Uttar Pradesh) with the highest rates of
anaemia and stunting. The aim of this survey was
W R D V V H V V W K H S U R J U D P · V G H O L Y H U \ R I Q X W U L W L R Q
services, whether the nutritional knowledge of
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adopted more appropriate nutrition and feeding
S U D F W L F H V 7 K H À Q G L Q J V G H P R Q V W U D W H G W K D W W K H
services delivered through the Poshan Abhiyaan –
the receipt of relevant messages, home visits by
the Anganwadi worker, and attendance at
community-based events – were associated with
improved nutrition behaviours. The survey also
found that the programme's nutrition messages
reached more than 80% of women and that 81% of
women practiced exclusive breastfeeding for the
À U V W V L [ P R Q W K V
Project Sampoorna in Bongaigaon, Assam
L Q W U R G X F H G W K H F R Q F H S W R I ¶ % X G G \ 0 R W K H U V ·
wherein two mothers formed a pair, one with a
healthy child and the other with a malnourished
child. They exchanged best practices and worked
on diet charts to monitor the daily food intake of
their children.
Mission Sampurna Poshan in Asifabad, Telangana
has enabled local production and consumption of
millets to address challenges of nutritional
G H À F L H Q F \ 8 Q G H U W K H S U R J U D P P H ) R R G ) H V W L Y D O V
Millet recipe trainings etc. were conducted. To
promote millets, subsidised seeds were distributed
to 2500 households on a pilot basis and today, 80%
R I E H Q H À F L D U L H V D U H Q R Z F R Q V X P L Q J P L O O H W V
The Mukhymantri Matrushakti Yojana in Gujarat
R I I H U V Q X W U L W L R Q N L W V W R À U V W W L P H S U H J Q D Q W Z R P H Q
and mothers of children up to two years old,
ensuring they receive essential commodities like
groundnut oil, dal and chana, which promote
healthy pregnancy and early childhood nutrition.
á ç I … « á « (
India’s comprehensive efforts to end hunger, achieve
food security, improve nutrition and promote
sustainable agriculture have laid a strong foundation
for achieving SDG 2. Moving forward, the focus
remains on consolidating gains and accelerating
progress through an integrated, inclusive and
technology-driven approach.
Integration of digital platforms like the Digital
Agriculture Mission, e-NAM and PM-KISAN grievance
redressal systems with real-time advisories, climate
alerts and market intelligence are areas which need
D P O U J O V P V T G P D V T & Y Q B O E J O H m O B O D J B M J O D M V T J P O
through Kisan Credit Cards (KCC), insurance
coverage under PMFBY and women-centric extension
services could also further improve farmer well-being
and productivity.
Nutrition goes beyond eating; it requires proper
digestion, absorption and metabolism which are
J O n V F O D F E C Z G B D U P S T M J L F T B O J U B U J P O F E V D B U J P O B O E
access to safe drinking water. Tackling malnutrition
requires a continued multi-sectoral approach
involving dimensions of food, health, water, sanitation
and education.
Recognising its role in addressing malnutrition and
ensuring nutritional security, the Government has
undertaken and will continue to strengthen initiatives
to promote dietary diversity. For instance, Poshan
" C I J Z B B O Q S P N P U F T E J F U B S Z E J W F S T J m D B U J P O U I S P V H I
behaviour change communication, community-based
events like “Poshan Maah” and “Poshan Pakhwada”
and nutrition education. These campaigns emphasise
the consumption of a variety of locally available foods,
including fruits, vegetables, pulses, etc. Additionally,
the mission works closely with Anganwadi centres to
encourage kitchen gardens and use them as
educational tools for promoting diverse food
consumption at the household level. PM POSHAN has
also been reoriented to include a more diverse food
basket by incorporating millets, green leafy
vegetables and seasonal fruits.
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GOAL
Good
health
and
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Good health is essential to sustainable development
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Figure 14: Maternal Mortality Ratio
(Per 100,000 live births)
0
50
100
150
200
250
2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020
India Southern Asia World
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022
India Southern Asia World
Figure 15: Under-five mortality rate,
(deaths per 1,000 live births)
Source: Estimates by WHO, UNICEF, UNFPA, World Bank
Group and UNDESA/Population Division. Geneva: World
Health Organization; 2023Source: United Nations Inter-agency Group for Child Mortality
Estimation (UN IGME), 2024.
ON TRACK TO MEET
MATERNAL, CHILD AND
INFANT MORTALITY
TARGETS WELL AHEAD OF
2030
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Year Year
Maternal Mortality Ratio
(Maternal Deaths Per 100,000 live births
Under-five mortality rate,
(deaths per 1,000 live births)
Figure 16: Neonatal mortality rate (per 1,000 live births)
0
5
10
15
20
25
30
35
2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020
Total Rural Urban
Source: Office of the Registrar General and Census Commissioner, India, Ministry of Home Affairs
Year
Under-five mortality rate,
(deaths per 1,000 live births)
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* O G S B T U S V D U V S F . J T T J P O 1 . " # ) * . U I F M B S H F T U
Q B O * O E J B T D I F N F G P S T U S F O H U I F O J O H I F B M U I D B S F
J O G S B T U S V D U V S F B D S P T T U I F D P V O U S Z 5 I F B J N J T
E F W F M P Q J O H D B Q B D J U J F T P G I F B M U I T Z T U F N T B O E
J O T U J U V U J P O T B D S P T T U I F D P O U J O V V N P G D B S F B U B M M M F W F M T
S F T Q P O E J O H F G G F D U J W F M Z U P G V U V S F Q B O E F N J D T E J T B T U F S T
1 . " # ) * . J T C V J M E J O H B O * 5 F O B C M F E E J T F B T F
T V S W F J M M B O D F T Z T U F N G P S F G G F D U J W F M Z E F U F D U J O H
J O W F T U J H B U J O H Q S F W F O U J O H B O E D P N C B U J O H 1 V C M J D
) F B M U I & N F S H F O D J F T B O E % J T F B T F 0 V U C S F B L T
5 P F T U B C M J T I B I P M J T U J D X F M M O F T T N P E F M U I F
( P W F S O N F O U I B T P Q F S B U J P O B M J T F E ) F B M U I B O E 8 F M M O F T T
$ F O U S F T ) 8 $ T O P X S F O B N F E B T " Z V T I N B O " S P H Z B
. B O E J S 5 I F T F D F O U S F T B J N U P Q S P W J E F $ P N Q S F I F O T J W F
1 S J N B S Z ) F B M U I $ B S F $ 1 ) $ C Z F Y Q B O E J O H B O E
T U S F O H U I F O J O H U I F F Y J T U J O H 3 F Q S P E V D U J W F B O E $ I J M E
) F B M U I 3 $ ) B O E $ P N N V O J D B C M F % J T F B T F T T F S W J D F T
5 I F T F B M T P J O D M V E F T F S W J D F T S F M B U F E U P
/ P O $ P N N V O J D B C M F % J T F B T F T B T X F M M B T I F B M U I
Q S P N P U J P O B O E X F M M O F T T B D U J W J U J F T M J L F Z P H B
Launched in 2021, the i-DRONE initiative has demonstrated the successful use of drones to deliver essential medical supplies in states such as North East India (Covid-19 and UIP vaccines, medications and surgical), Himachal Pradesh (medications and samples in high altitude and sub-zero temperatures), Karnataka (intraoperative oncosurgical samples), Telangana (TB sputum samples) and the NCR (blood bags and its components). These efforts highlight the growing capability and promise of drones in bridging the last-mile healthcare gap.
USE OF DRONES
TO DELIVER ESSENTIAL
MEDICAL SUPPLIES
National One Health Mission for Pandemic
Preparedness is an integrated approach to tackling
diseases at the intersection of human, animal and
environmental health. This mission is a crucial step
W R Z D U G E X L O G L Q J , Q G L D · V F D S D F L W \ W R P D Q D J H ] R R Q R W L F
diseases and pandemics.
In 2022, India established the National Institute of
2 Q H + H D O W K W R I X U W K H U H [ S H G L W H W K H F R X Q W U \ · V H I I R U W V
in enhancing health research to serve our
Y X O Q H U D E O H S R S X O D W L R Q V 7 K H , Q V W L W X W H · V I R F X V L V R Q
increasing preparedness and laboratory capabilities
I R U L G H Q W L À F D W L R Q R I Q R Y H O D Q G X Q N Q R Z Q ] R R Q R W L F
agents. This dedicated institute is equipped with the
Biosafety Level (BSL-IV) laboratory. The goal is to
help in the investigation of outbreaks of emerging
zoonotic agents concerned with public health and
developing better control strategies.
, Q D À U V W R I L W V N L Q G L Q L W L D W L Y H , Q G L D L V D O V R V H W W R
E H J L Q D Q D P E L W L R X V L Q W H U P L Q L V W H U L D O V F L H Q W L À F V W X G \
aimed at detecting zoonotic diseases that could spill
over from birds to humans, focusing on the critical
L Q W H U V H F W L R Q R I K X P D Q E L U G D Q G I R U H V W K H D O W K ¬
INDIA AND ONE HEALTH
J … n ÎÑ r J … … ( R 0 n Á R z ( á 0 n ns 0 X z J
EXPANSION IN HEALTH
CARE COVERAGE
" Z V T I N B O # I B S B U 1 S B E I B O . B O U S J + B O " S P H Z B : P K B O B
" # 1 . + " : U I F M B S H F T U Q V C M J D M Z G V O E F E I F B M U I
B T T V S B O D F T D I F N F J O U I F X P S M E Q S P W J E F T I F B M U I
D P W F S P G ` N J M M J P O Q F S G B N J M Z Q F S Z F B S G P S
T F D P O E B S Z B O E U F S U J B S Z D B S F I P T Q J U B M J T B U J P O * U I B T B
D P N Q S F I F O T J W F I F B M U I C F O F m U Q B D L B H F T V O E F S
E J G G F S F O U T Q F D J B M J U J F T B O E J O X B T F Y Q B O E F E
U P Q S P W J E F ø I F B M U I D P W F S U P B Q Q S P Y J N B U F M Z N J M M J P O
J O E J W J E V B M C F O F m D J B S J F T D P S S F T Q P O E J O H U P
N J M M J P O G B N J M J F T D P O T U J U V U J O H F D P O P N J D B M M Z W V M O F S B C M F
C P U U P N P G * O E J B T Q P Q V M B U J P O
. B O Z 4 U B U F T 6 5 T
J N Q M F N F O U J O H " # 1 . + " : I B W F G V S U I F S F Y Q B O E F E U I F
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N P S F U I B O N J M M J P O " Z V T I N B O $ B S E T I B W F C F F O
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* O U I F
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T F O J P S D J U J [ F O T B H F E Z F B S T B O E B C P W F 6 O E F S U I F
F Y Q B O T J P O U I F T F T F O J P S D J U J [ F O T B S F S F D F J W J O H
i " Z V T I N B O 7 B Z 7 B O E B O B $ B S E w X I J D I I F M Q T U I F N
B W B J M I F B M U I D B S F C F O F m U T J S S F T Q F D U J W F P G U I F J S
T P D J P F D P O P N J D T U B U V T " E E J U J P O B M M Z J O P S E F S U P C P P T U
I F B M U I D P W F S B H F B O " Z V T I N B O " Q Q I B T C F F O
J O U S P E V D F E X I F S F J O T F M G W F S J m D B U J P O G F B U V S F G P S
C F O F m D J B S J F T I B T C F F O F O B C M F E
I I … « ( n 0 R 0 n Á R ! « 0
SERVICES
0 V U P G Q P D L F U F Y Q F O E J U V S F 0 0 1 & P O I F B M U I B T B
Q F S D F O U B H F P G 5 P U B M ) F B M U I & Y Q F O E J U V S F 5 ) & J O U I F
D P V O U S Z I B T E F D M J O F E G S P N J O U P
J O
5 I F E F D M J O J O H U S F O E J O 0 0 1 & B T B
Q F S D F O U B H F P G 5 ) & S F n F D U T U I F J O D S F B T J O H B G G P S E B C J M J U Z
P G * O E J B T I F B M U I D B S F T F S W J D F T 5 I F F D P O P N J D P V U Q V U
M P T U E V F U P / P O $ P N N V O J D B C M F % J T F B T F T / $ % T
F Y D M V E J O H N F O U B M D P O E J U J P O T J T F T U J N B U F E U P C F
U S J M M J P O G P S * O E J B G P S U I F Q F S J P E P G
5 P U B D L M F
U I J T % J T U S J D U / $ % $ M J O J D T % J T U S J D U % B Z $ B S F
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$ P N N V O J U Z ) F B M U I $ F O U S F / $ % $ M J O J D T I B W F C F F O T F U
V Q V O E F S U I F / B U J P O B M 1 S P H S B N N F G P S 1 S F W F O U J P O B O E
$ P O U S P M P G / P O $ P N N V O J D B C M F % J T F B T F T
30
Atal Vayo Abhyuday Yojana (AVYAY) is being
J N Q M F N F O U F E U P U B L F D B S F P G W B S J P V T O F F E T P G T F O J P S D J U J [ F O T J O D M V E J O H T I F M U F S G P P E I F B M U I D B S F B O E I V N B O J O U F S B D U J P O M J G F P G E J H O J U Z " T Q B S U P G J U T G P D V T P O I F B M U I U I F J O J U J B U J W F Q S P W J E F T T F O J P S D J U J [ F O T T V G G F S J O H G S P N B O Z P G U I F B H F S F M B U F E E J T B C J M J U Z J O m S N J U Z X J U I B T T J T U F E M J W J O H E F W J D F T X I J D I D B O S F T U P S F O F B S O P S N B M D Z J O U I F J S C P E J M Z G V O D U J P O T P W F S D P N J O H E J T B C J M J U J F T J O m S N J U J F T T V D I B T M P X W J T J P O I F B S J O H J N Q B J S N F O U M P T T P G U F F U I B O E M P D P N P U P S E J T B C J M J U J F T " O P U I F S D P N Q P O F O U J T C S J E H J O H U I F H B Q J O T V Q Q M Z B O E J O D S F B T J O H E F N B O E J O U I F m F M E P G H F S J B U S J D D B S F H J W F S T T P B T U P Q S P W J E F N P S F Q S P G F T T J P O B M T F S W J D F T U P U I F T F O J P S D J U J [ F O T B O E B M T P U P D S F B U F B D B E S F P G Q S P G F T T J P O B M D B S F H J W F S T J O U I F m F M E P G H F S J B U S J D T
ý . B L L B M B J 5 I F E J . B S V U I V W B N ý . 5 . T D I F N F I B T C F F O J N Q M F N F O U F E J O 5 B N J M / B E V T J O D F U P Q S P W J E F B I P M J T U J D B O E D P N Q S F I F O T J W F T F U P G ý ) P N F # B T F E ) F B M U I $ B S F 4 F S W J D F T ý U P F O T V S F B D P O U J O V V N P G D B S F T V T U B J O B C J M J U Z P G U I F T F S W J D F T B O E N F F U J O H U I F I F B M U I O F F E T P G C F O F m D J B S J F T i . 5 . w T D I F N F J T D P O D F Q U V B M J T F E J O T V D I B X B Z U I B U B m F M E M F W F M U F B N Q S P W J E F T I P N F C B T F E I F B M U I D B S F T F S W J D F T F T Q F D J B M M Z U B S H F U J O H O P O D P N N V O J D B C M F E J T F B T F T / $ % 5 I F T D I F N F J O D M V E F T Q S F W F O U J W F B O E Q S P N P U J W F T F S W J D F T M J L F T D S F F O J O H G P S I Z Q F S U F O T J P O E J B C F U F T B O E Q S P W J E J O H D P V O T F M M J O H S F H B S E J O H M J G F T U Z M F N P E J m D B U J P O B O E D B O D F S T D S F F O J O H 5 I F S F B S F D V S B U J W F T F S W J D F T T V D I B T ) P N F C B T F E 1 B M M J B U J W F $ B S F B O E 1 I Z T J P U I F S B Q Z T F S W J D F T U I F E F M J W F S Z P G ) Z Q F S U F O T J P O % J B C F U F T . F M M J U V T E S V H T G P S Q B U J F O U T X I P B S F Z F B S T B O E B C P W F B O E U I P T F X J U I S F T U S J D U F E N P C J M J U Z D B S J O H G P S & O E 4 U B H F , J E O F Z ' B J M V S F Q B U J F O U T B O E J E F O U J m D B U J P O P G D I J M E S F O X J U I D P O H F O J U B M Q S P C M F N T B N P O H P U I F S T
HEALTHCARE AT
PEOPLE’S DOORSTEP
J … n ÎÑ r J … … ( R 0 n Á R z ( á 0 n ns 0 X z J
FIT INDIA AND EAT RIGHT
INDIA MOVEMENTS
5 I F ' J U * O E J B . P W F N F O U F O D P V S B H F T Q F P Q M F U P B E P Q U
B I F B M U I Z M J G F T U Z M F B O E I B T H B J O F E J N N F O T F Q P Q V M B S J U Z
B D S P T T * O E J B X J U I B W B S J F U Z P G J O J U J B U J W F T B O E
Q S P H S B N N F T C F J O H S P M M F E P V U U P Q S P N P U F Q I Z T J D B M
B D U J W J U Z B O E I F B M U I Z I B C J U T ' J U * O E J B 4 D I P P M
$ F S U J m D B U J P O ø G P S T D I P P M T J O D P S Q P S B U J O H Q I Z T J D B M B D U J W J U Z
J O U I F J S D V S S J D V M V N B O E ' J U * O E J B 4 V O E B Z T P O $ Z D M F ø
J O J U J B U J W F Q S P N P U J O H D Z D M J O H B O E X B M L J O H J O V S C B O
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4 B G F I F B M U I Z C B M B O D F E B O E E J W F S T F E J F U J T C F J O H
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5 I J T J O D M V E F T C P U I T V Q Q M Z B O E E F N B O E T J E F
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C F J O H B N F O E F E U P F N Q P X F S D P O T V N F S T U P C F U U F S
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0
50
100
150
200
250
2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022
India Southern Asia World
Figure 17: Tuberculosis incidence (per 100,000 population)
Source: WHO Global Tuberculosis Report 2023
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ELIMINATING AND
CONTROLLING DISEASES
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32
Year
Tuberculosis incidence (per 100,000 population)
J … n ÎÑ r J … … ( R 0 n Á R z ( á 0 n ns 0 X z J
5 I F ' J G U I Q I B T F P G U I F / B U J P O B M " * % 4 B O E 4 5 % $ P O U S P M
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C Z B O E F O T V S F U I F O B U J P O B M D P N N J U N F O U
P G B D I J F W J O H U I F F O E P G U I F " * % 4 F Q J E F N J D C Z
DIGITAL HEALTHCARE
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4 F Q U F N C F S J T B O J O J U J B U J W F P G U I F H P W F S O N F O U
U I B U B J N T B U C V J M E J O H B D J U J [ F O D F O U S J D J O U F S P Q F S B C M F
E J H J U B M I F B M U I F D P T Z T U F N 8 J U I " # % . D J U J [ F O T D B O
T F D V S F M Z T U P S F B O E B D D F T T U I F J S N F E J D B M S F D P S E T F H
Q S F T D S J Q U J P O T E J B H O P T U J D S F Q P S U T E J T D I B S H F
T V N N B S J F T B O E T I B S F U I F N X J U I I F B M U I D B S F Q S P W J E F S T
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B J N T U P N B L F I F B M U I D B S F N P S F B D D F T T J C M F
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B O E J O U S P E V D F E U I F 6 8 * / 6 O J W F S T B M * N N V O J [ B U J P O
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S F D P S E J O H B O E U S B D L J O H B E N J O J T U S B U J P O P G M J G F T B W J O H
W B D D J O F T Q S P W J E F E U P 1 S F H O B O U 8 P N F O B O E $ I J M E S F O
G S P N C J S U I U P Z F B S T V O E F S U I F 6 O J W F S T B M
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U I F Q M B U G P S N I B E F Y Q B O E F E U P E J T U S J D U T B D S P T T
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U I F J N N V O J T B U J P O D B N Q B J H O B O E S F E V D F U I F O V N C F S
P G D I J M E S F O X I P B S F M F G U P V U C Z B M M P X J O H A " O Z U J N F
" D D F T T B O E A " O Z X I F S F W B D D J O B U J P O B O E P G G F S J O H
n F Y J C M F T D I F E V M J O H P Q U J P O T G P S S F D J Q J F O U T " U U I F F O E P G
N J M M J P O C F O F m D J B S J F T I B W F C F F O S F H J T U F S F E
N J M M J P O W B D D J O B U J P O T F T T J P O T I B W F C F F O I F M E B O E
N J M M J P O B E N J O J T U F S F E W B D D J O F E P T F T I B W F C F F O
S F D P S E F E P O 6 8 * /
33
WAY FORWARD
5 I F S J T J O H C V S E F O P G O P O D P N N V O J D B C M F E J T F B T F T B O E
N F O U B M I F B M U I E J T P S E F S T J T J O D S F B T J O H I F B M U I D B S F
E F N B O E T B O E F D P O P N J D D P T U T X I J M F M P X C J S U I S B U F T
D P N C J O F E X J U I B H S P X J O H F M E F S M Z Q P Q V M B U J P O I B W F U I F
Q P U F O U J B M U P T U S B J O T P D J B M Q S P U F D U J P O B O E I F B M U I D B S F
T Z T U F N T 5 I F T F G B D U P S T F Y B D F S C B U F J O F R V B M J U J F T B O E
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ENROLMENT BY 2030
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0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
90
100
2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023
Primary completion
India Southern Asia World
Figure 18: Completion rates for primary level (%)
T F D P O E B S Z M F W F M E S J W J O H U I F O B U J P O D M P T F S U P J U T W J T J P O P G J O D M V T J W F B O E F R V J U B C M F F E V D B U J P O G P S B M M School dropout rates have steadily declined in recent Z F B S T T U B O E J O H B U G P S Q S J N B S Z G P S V Q Q F S Q S J N B S Z B O E G P S T F D P O E B S Z M F W F M T
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PM SHRI SCHOOLS
h ¨ x ³ ! R … … n ³ I … « « X ³ X z J X z ( X i
Year
Completion rates for primary level (%)
J … n ÎÒ r ª È n X Á ç 0 ( È ! Á X … z
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
90
100
2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023
Lower secondary completion
India Southern Asia World
Figure 19: Completion rates for lower secondary level (%)
Year
Completion rates for lower secondary level (%)
Year
Completion rates for upper secondary level (%)
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
90
100
2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023
Upper secondary completion
Figure 20: Completion rates for upper secondary level (%)
India Southern Asia World
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% J T B E W B O U B H F E ( S P V Q T 4 & % ( T X I J D I J O U F S B M J B
includes geographical identities such as students
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EDUCATION
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& E V D B U J P O & $ $ & M B O E T D B Q F U I F / B U J P O B M
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C J S U I U P Z F B S T " B E I B S T I J M B Q S P N P U F T Q M B Z C B T F E
M F B S O J O H G P S D I J M E S F O B H F E U P Z F B S T * O S V S B M * O E J B
F O S P M N F O U B N P O H D I J M E S F O B H F E Z F B S T J O T P N F
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* O J U J B U J W F G P S 1 S P m D J F O D Z J O 3 F B E J O H X J U I
6 O E F S T U B O E J O H B O E / V N F S B D Z / * 1 6 / # I B S B U J T
C F J O H J O U S P E V D F E U P F O T V S F U I B U F W F S Z D I J M E J O U I F
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C Z 5 I F F E V D B U J P O T Z T U F N J T E F Q M P Z J O H
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H P W F S O N F O U B O E Q S J W B U F T D I P P M T S F B D I J O H U I F I J H I F T U
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A . P 4 D I P P M " C I J Z B B O J O ( B K B Q B U J % J T U S J D U * U J T B O J O J U J B U J W F X I F S F U I F B M V N O J P G S F T Q F D U J W F T D I P P M T J O U F S F T U F E
Q V C M J D B O E D P N N V O J U Z B U M B S H F Q B S U J D J Q B U F J O U I F P W F S B M M E F W F M P Q N F O U P G T D I P P M T 5 I F W P M V O U F F S E S J W F O
Q S P H S B N N F F N Q M P Z T T F W F S B M N F U I P E T U P H F O F S B U F B C P U U P N V Q N P W F N F O U G P S T P D J B M B D D P V O U B C J M J U Z
J O D M V E J O H J O D F O U J W F T T V D I B T D P O U S J C V U J O H E P V C M F U I F B N P V O U B T B N B U D I J O H T I B S F U P U I F A E P O B U F E B N P V O U
D P N N V O J U Z B X B S F O F T T Q M B O U B U J P O B D U J W J U J F T B O E D M F B O M J O F T T E S J W F T * O U F S F T U F E Q F S T P O T X J M M J O H U P U F B D I
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EDUCATION
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H M P C B M L O P X M F E H F T V Q F S Q P X F S 0 W F S U I F Z F B S T U I F S F
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F E V D B U J P O F D P T Z T U F N 5 P U B M ) J H I F S & E V D B U J P O
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N F B T V S F T U P B D I J F W F U I J T B J N J O D M V E F H S F B U F S
P Q Q P S U V O J U J F T G P S P V U T U B O E J O H Q V C M J D F E V D B U J P O
T D I P M B S T I J Q T C Z Q S J W B U F Q I J M B O U I S P Q J D V O J W F S T J U J F T G P S
E J T B E W B O U B H F E B O E V O E F S Q S J W J M F H F E T U V E F O U T P O M J O F
F E V D B U J P O B O E 0 Q F O % J T U B O D F - F B S O J O H 0 % - B O E
B M M J O G S B T U S V D U V S F B O E M F B S O J O H N B U F S J B M T B D D F T T J C M F
B O E B W B J M B C M F U P M F B S O F S T X J U I E J T B C J M J U J F T 7 B S J P V T
N F B T V S F T I B W F C F F O V O E F S U B L F O G P S U I F F Y Q B O T J P O P G
R V B M J U Z F E V D B U J P O T V D I B T Q S P W J E J O H N V D I O F F E F E
n F Y J C J M J U Z B M M P X J O H D S F B U J W F D P N C J O B U J P O P G T V C K F D U T
Q S P W J E J O H N V M U J Q M F Q B U I X B Z T F T U B C M J T I J O H
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E F N P D S B U J T J O H B D D F T T U P I J H I R V B M J U Z T D I P M B S M Z
S F T F B S D I J O * O E J B * U Q S P W J E F T B D D F T T U P P W F S
F K P V S O B M T G S P N M F B E J O H J O U F S O B U J P O B M Q V C M J T I F S T U P
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B D S P T T H P W F S O N F O U N B O B H F E ) & * T B O E $ F O U S B M
( P W F S O N F O U 3 % J O T U J U V U J P O T J O D M V E J O H O V N F S P V T
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# Z P G G F S J O H D F O U S B M J T F E
B D D F T T U P B W B T U B S S B Z P G J O U F S O B U J P O B M K P V S O B M T 0 / 0 4
B J N T U P C S J E H F F Y J T U J O H L O P X M F E H F H B Q T Q B S U J D V M B S M Z
C F O F m U J O H J O T U J U V U J P O T J O U J F S B O E D J U J F T
21
ST
CENTURY SKILLS AND
IMPROVING LEARNING
QUALITY
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I J H I M Z E Z O B N J D B O E T L J M M J O U F O T J W F F S B E F m O F E C Z
B V U P N B U J P O B S U J m D J B M J O U F M M J H F O D F " * * O U F S O F U P G U I J O H T
* P 5 C J H E B U B B O E S P C P U J D T * O B O F G G P S U U P M F W F S B H F
U F D I O P M P H Z U P X B S E T F O I B O D J O H U I F D B Q B C J M J U J F T P G
F E V D B U P S T B O E Q S F Q B S J O H U I F N G P S U I F E F N B O E T P G U I F
T U D F O U V S Z U I F ( P W F S O N F O U I B T M B V O D I F E
5 F B D I F S " Q Q B D V U U J O H F E H F E J H J U B M Q M B U G P S N ø
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J T C F J O H J N Q M F N F O U F E X J U I U I F P C K F D U J W F U P
B X B S E T D I P M B S T I J Q T U P N F S J U P S J P V T T U V E F O U T P G
F D P O P N J D B M M Z X F B L F S T F D U J P O T U P B S S F T U U I F J S
E S P Q P V U B U D M B T T 7 * * * B O E F O D P V S B H F U I F N U P
D P O U J O V F U I F J S F E V D B U J P O B U T F D P O E B S Z T U B H F
0 O F M B L I G S F T I T D I P M B S T I J Q T B S F B X B S E F E U P
selected students of class IX every year and
U I F J S D P O U J O V B U J P O S F O F X B M J O D M B T T F T 9 U P 9 * * G P S
T U V E Z J O 4 U B U F ( P W F S O N F O U ( P W F S O N F O U B J E F E
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TEACH GAJAPATI: A JAN ANDOLAN
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B O E T L J M M T F T T F O U J B M U P B E E S F T T F O W J S P O N F O U B M D I B M M F O H F T U I V T Q S F Q B S J O H U I F N U P D P O U S J C V U F U P B
T V T U B J O B C M F G V U V S F
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U I F P Q Q P S U V O J U Z U P E F W F M P Q Q S B D U J D B M T L J M M T B O E L O P X M F E H F G P S U I F S F T Q P O T J C M F V T F P G O B U V S B M S F T P V S D F T
5 I S P V H I Q B S U J D J Q B U J P O J O B D U J W J U J F T T V D I B T P Q U J N J T J O H X B U F S V T B H F N J O J N J T J O H X B T U F H F O F S B U J P O S F D Z D M J O H
B O E D P O E V D U J O H Q M B O U B U J P O E S J W F T T U V E F O U T M F B S O T V T U B J O B C M F Q S B D U J D F T U I B U U I F Z D B O J N Q M F N F O U C P U I
X J U I J O B O E C F Z P O E U I F T D I P P M F O W J S P O N F O U
5 I F B D U J W J U J F T P G & D P $ M V C T I B W F C F F O J O U F H S B U F E X J U I . J T T J P O - J ' & M F B E J O H U P U I F J S S F O B N J O H B T i & D P
$ M V C T G P S . J T T J P O - J ' & w " M M U I F B D U J W J U J F T P G & D P $ M V C T I B W F C F F O B M J H O F E X J U I U I F T F W F O U I F N F T P G . J T T J P O
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D P W F S J O H T F W F O D P S F U I F N F T P G . J T T J P O - J ' & 5 I F T F D B N Q T T B X B D U J W F Q B S U J D J Q B U J P O G S P N P W F S N J M M J P O
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N P O T P P O T F B T P O B T B N F B T V S F B H B J O T U E F T F S U J m D B U J P O
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P G N J M M J P O O F X & D P $ M V C T G P S . J T T J P O - J ' & F T U B C M J T I N F O U P G N P S F U I B O N J M M J P O 4 D I P P M / V U S J U J P O
( B S E F O T B M T P Q B S U P G U I F % B Z T h " D U J P O 1 M B O P G % P 4 & - U I F Q M B O U J O H P G N J M M J P O T B Q M J O H T V O E F S U I F
& L 1 F E . B B , F / B B N ø J O J U J B U J W F X J U I B U P U B M Q B S U J D J Q B U J P O P G N J M M J P O J O E J W J E V B M T F O D P N Q B T T J O H T U V E F O U T
U F B D I F S T B O E D P N N V O J U Z N F N C F S T
5 I F J O D P S Q P S B U J P O P G U F D I O P M P H Z Q S F T F O U T
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N P S F B D D F T T J C M F B O E J O D M V T J W F G P S B C S P B E F S
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V T J O H " * G P S U F B D I F S E F W F M P Q N F O U B O E T U V E F O U
U V U P S J O H J O U F H S B U J O H J O E V T U S Z S F M F W B O U T L J M M T B O E
D F S U J m D B U J P O T B O E D S F B U J O H Q F S T P O B M J T F E M F B S O J O H
T P G U X B S F
5 I F / & 1 F N Q I B T J T F T U F D I O P M P H Z h T S P M F J O
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J O D M V T J W J U Z G P S % J W Z B O H T U V E F O U T 4 D I F N F T M J L F
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for the youth through partnerships with corporates
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BUILDING AWARENESS AMONGST STATES
ON CLIMATE CHANGE & GLOBAL WARMING
à X 0 ! … ! n È ³ I … « x X ³ ³ X … z n X I 0
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ACHIEVING 100% LITERACY
BY 2030
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F O H B H F N F B O J O H G V M M Z J O T P D J F U Z ø . P S F U I B O N J M M J P O
M F B S O F S T B O E N J M M J P O W P M V O U F F S U F B D I F S T I B W F
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á ç I … « á « (
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B O E S F H V M B U P S Z C P E J F T & E V D B U J P O B M M F W F M T P G
parents of young children have changed
T V C T U B O U J B M M Z J O U I F M B T U E F D B E F ) P X U P F G G F D U J W F M Z
M F W F S B H F U I J T T V C T U B O U J B M S J T F J O I V N B O D B Q J U B M J O U I F
G B N J M Z J T B O J N Q P S U B O U G B D U P S U P D P O T J E F S
* O U I F M B T U G F X Z F B S T U I F S F I B W F C F F O J N Q P S U B O U
N J M F T U P O F T G P S C V J M E J O H U I F T Z T U F N X J E F C B T F P G U I F
G P V O E B U J P O B M T U B H F 5 I F / B U J P O B M $ V S S J D V M V N
' S B N F X P S L G P S U I F ' P V O E B U J P O B M 4 U B H F / $ ' ' 4
X B T S F M F B T F E X F M M C F G P S F U I B U P G I J H I F S H S B E F T "
T Q F D J B M B T T F T T N F O U P G 4 U E * * * ' P V O E B U J P O B M
- F B S O J O H 4 U V E Z P S ' - 4 B O E U I F S F M F B T F P G O F X
L J U T G P S U I J T B H F H S P V Q T V D I B T i + B E V J 1 J U B S B w B S F
B M M F Y B N Q M F T P G U I F I J H I Q S J P S J U Z U I B U U I F
G P V O E B U J P O B M T U B H F J T C F J O H H J W F O C Z U I F 6 O J P O B O E
4 U B U F ( P W F S O N F O U T 5 I J T F G G P S U O F F E T U P C F
N B J O U B J O F E B O E T U S F O H U I F O F E T P U I B U F W F S Z
successive cohort that passes through the
G P V O E B U J P O B M T U B H F F N F S H F T T U S P O H F S C Z U I F U J N F
U I F Z S F B D I 4 U E * * * " U U I F T B N F U J N F B T J N J M B S I J H I
F O F S H Z J N Q M F N F O U B U J P O T F F O J O U I F m S T U U X P H S B E F T
J O Q S J N B S Z T D I P P M O F F E T U P C F D P O O F D U F E X J U I U I F
early childhood section of the foundational stage in
F B D I 4 U B U F
5 P J E F O U J G Z J O G S B T U S V D U V S F H B Q T Q B S U J D V M B S M Z J O S V S B M
B S F B T B O B V E J U P G 4 B N B H S B 4 I J L T I B J T D P O T U B O U M Z C F J O H
D P O E V D U F E . * 4 Q P S U B M J F 1 3 " # " / % ) I B T C F F O
D S F B U F E U P U S B D L B O E N P O J U P S C P U I Q I Z T J D B M B O E
m O B O D J B M Q S P H S F T T B O E B V E J U P G U I F W B S J P V T
D P N Q P O F O U T P G 4 B N B H S B 4 I J L T I B J O D M V E J O H 4 N B S U
$ M B T T S P P N T P G U I F 4 U B U F T 6 5 T J O S V S B M B O E V S C B O B S F B T
5 I F ( P W F S O N F O U J T J N Q M F N F O U J O H T F W F S B M T U S B U F H J D
J O J U J B U J W F T U P F O I B O D F M F B S O J O H P V U D P N F T B O E
D P N Q F U F O D J F T J O T D I P P M T B D S P T T * O E J B ø ' P S
J O T U B O D F B L F Z J O J U J B U J W F P G 1 " 3 " , ) J T U I F
E F W F M P Q N F O U P G U I F ) P M J T U J D 1 S P H S F T T $ B S E T B U U I F
' P V O E B U J P O B M 1 S F Q B S B U P S Z . J E E M F B O E 4 F D P O E B S Z
T U B H F T U P T U S F O H U I F O U I F J N Q M F N F O U B U J P O P G B
$ P N Q F U F O D Z # B T F E " T T F T T N F O U ' S B N F X P S L N P E F M
" O P U I F S D P S F J O J U J B U J W F P G 1 " 3 " , ) 1 F S G P S N B O D F
" T T F T T N F O U 3 F W J F X B O E " O B M Z T J T P G , O P X M F E H F
G P S ) P M J T U J D % F W F M P Q N F O U J T D P O E V D U J O H ø 1 " 3 " , )
3 B T I U S J Z B 4 B S W F L T I B O F B S M J F S L O P X O B T / B U J P O B M
" D I J F W F N F O U 4 V S W F Z 5 I F M B U F T U P O F J O % F D F N C F S
ø D P W F S F E B Q Q S P Y J N B U F M Z N J M M J P O T U V E F O U T J O
T D I P P M T B D S P T T U I F D P V O U S Z
5 I J T
nationwide survey is helping assess the learning
D P N Q F U F O D J F T B U U I F F O E P G U I F G P V O E B U J P O B M
Q S F Q B S B U P S Z B O E N J E E M F T U B H F T P G T D I P P M J O H J F
T U V E F O U T D V S S F O U M Z J O ( S B E F T B O E # Z
H B U I F S J O H T B N Q M F E B U B P O T U V E F O U B D I J F W F N F O U
1 " 3 " , ) D B O J E F O U J G Z T Q F D J m D D P N Q F U F O D J F T X I F S F
T U V E F O U T N B Z C F T U S V H H M J O H B O E E F T J H O U B S H F U F E
J O U F S W F O U J P O T U P T V Q Q P S U U I F T F M F B S O J O H O F F E T
* O W F T U N F O U T J O T L J M M T S F T F B S D I J O O P W B U J P O
F D P T Z T U F N T H P W F S O N F O U B D B E F N J D Q B S U O F S T I J Q T
B O E G B D V M U Z E F W F M P Q N F O U B S F Q J W P U B M G P S F G m D J F O U M Z
E F M J W F S J O H F E V D B U J P O T F S W J D F T B O E J N Q S P W J O H
M F B S O J O H P V U D P N F T
J … n ÎÒ r ª È n X Á ç 0 ( È ! Á X … z
77
05
GOAL
Gender
Equality
Ending all discrimination against women and girls is a
basic human right and is a prerequisite for sustainable
development. Goal 5 calls for ending all forms of
W J P M F O D F U S B G m D L J O H B O E T F Y V B M F Y Q M P J U B U J P O P G X P N F O
and girls. Recognising and valuing unpaid care and
E P N F T U J D X P S L J T B L F Z D P N Q P O F O U P G U I J T H P B M X J U I
emphasis on the importance of full and effective
participation and equal opportunities for leadership at
B M M M F W F M T P G E F D J T J P O N B L J O H J O Q P M J U J D B M F D P O P N J D
and public life for women.
( M P C B M M Z Q S P H S F T T U P X B S E T H F O E F S F R V B M J U Z J T M B H H J O H
Although the prevalence rates of harmful practices
such as child marriage and female genital mutilation
are decreasing worldwide, the progress remains
V O F W F O ( F O E F S Q B S J U Z F T Q F D J B M M Z J O X P N F O T
participation in public life and managerial roles
remains distant. At the current rate achieving gender
Q B S J U Z J O N B O B H F S J B M Q P T J U J P O T X J M M U B L F Z F B S T
44
Furthermore, violence against women persists.
Urgent action is needed to challenge biased social
norms, eliminate harmful practices and change
E J T D S J N J O B U P S Z M B X T * O D S F B T J O H X P N F O T M F B E F S T I J Q
S P M F T B O E J O W F T U N F O U T J O H F O E F S F R V B M J U Z B S F D S V D J B M B U
the national, regional and global levels.
4 % ( ( F O E F S & R V B M J U Z B J N T U P B D I J F W F H F O E F S
F R V B M J U Z B O E F N Q P X F S B M M X P N F O B O E H J S M T * U F O T V S F T
equal rights, opportunities and treatment for all
individuals, irrespective of their gender. Ending all
forms of discrimination against women and girls is not
P O M Z B C B T J D I V N B O S J H I U C V U B M T P D S V D J B M G P S U I F
sustainable future of societies. Providing women and
girls with equal access to education, healthcare,
E F D F O U X P S L B O E S F Q S F T F O U B U J P O J O Q P M J U J D B M B O E
F D P O P N J D E F D J T J P O N B L J O H Q S P D F T T F T X J M M M F B E U P
T V T U B J O B C M F F D P O P N J F T B O E C F O F m U T P D J F U J F T B O E
I V N B O J U Z B U M B S H F 4 % ( B J N T U P F O E B M M G P S N T P G
E J T D S J N J O B U J P O B H B J O T U X P N F O B O E H J S M T F W F S Z X I F S F * U
is vital to ensure women have equal rights to land and
Q S P Q F S U Z T F Y V B M B O E S F Q S P E V D U J W F I F B M U I B O E B D D F T T
U P U F D I O P M P H Z B O E U I F J O U F S O F U
5 P E B Z J O * O E J B U I F Q S P H S F T T P O 4 % ( J T S F D F J W J O H
renewed focus. Greater awareness across all
T F H N F O U T P G T P D J F U Z P G U I F J N Q P S U B O D F U I B U N V T U C F
Q M B D F E P O B D I J F W J O H H S F B U F S H F O E F S F R V B M J U Z 5 I F
Government has also initiated several social
Q S P U F D U J P O B O E m O B O D J B M J O D M V T J P O Q S P H S B N N F T
focusing on women, increasing their participation.
* O J U J B U J W F T M J L F # F U J # B D I B P # F U J 1 B E I B P # # # 1 I B W F
S B J T F E B X B S F O F T T B O E J N Q S P W F E U I F F G m D J F O D Z P G
welfare services for girls.
* O E J B I B T P W F S N J M M J P O F M F D U F E X P N F O
representatives at grassroots level, a scale of
S F Q S F T F O U B U J P O V O Q B S B M M F M F E H M P C B M M Z
45
Envisioning
4 F M G ) F M Q ( S P V Q T B T W F I J D M F T P G D I B O H F U P E B Z
million women are transforming the rural
M B O E T D B Q F F D P O P N J D B M M Z B O E U B L J O H H S F B U F S
leadership at grassroots level.
Although the proportion of women holding seats in
legislative bodies at national level remains lower than
in some other parts of the world, this number is
H S P X J O H T U F B E J M Z B O E * O E J B B M S F B E Z I B T N P S F X P N F O
J O M P D B M H P W F S O N F O U T U I B O U I F H M P C B M B W F S B H F * O * O E J B
more than 45% of representatives in deliberative local
C P E J F T P G ( P W F S O N F O U F H ( S B N 1 B O D I B Z B U 7 J M M B H F
$ P V O D J M 1 B O D I B Z B U 4 B N B J U # M P D L $ P V O D J M B O E ; J M B
1 B S J T I B E % J T U S J D U $ P V O D J M B S F X P N F O 5 I J T J T G B S N P S F
U I B O U I F H M P C B M B W F S B H F P G 4 F F ' J H V S F "
N J M F T U P O F J O U I F K P V S O F Z U P G V S U I F S F Y Q B O E X P N F O T
S F Q S F T F O U B U J P O J O F M F D U F E P G m D F I B T C F F O B D I J F W F E C Z
U I F Q B T T J O H P G U I F ø / B S J 4 I B L U J 7 B O E B O " E I J O J Z B N
X I J D I T F F L T U P S F T F S W F P O F U I J S E ø P G U I F U P U B M
O V N C F S P G T F B U T G P S X P N F O J O - P L 4 B C I B 4 U B U F
- F H J T M B U J W F " T T F N C M J F T B O E % F M I J " T T F N C M Z ø
FROM WOMEN’S
DEVELOPMENT TO
á … x 0 zs n 0 ( ( 0 à 0 n … ¨ x 0 z Á
* O E J B h T E F W F M P Q N F O U K P V S O F Z J T D M P T F M Z J O U F S M J O L F E X J U I
the empowerment of its women. Recognising this
D S J U J D B M D P O O F D U J P O U I F ( P W F S O N F O U I B T Q M B D F E ø / B S J
4 I B L U J ø B U U I F G P S F G S P O U P G J U T B H F O E B 5 I F ( P W F S O N F O U
V O E F S T U B O E T U I B U X P N F O h T F N Q P X F S N F O U J T O P U B
one-time solution; it requires a comprehensive
approach that addresses their needs throughout their
M J W F T * O U I J T S F H B S E X F M G B S F Q S P H S B N N F T I B W F C F F O
designed to support women at different stages
enabling them to overcome socio-economic barriers
B O E B D I J F W F X I P M F T P N F F N Q P X F S N F O U # Z T I J G U J O H
the narrative from women as recipients of welfare to
agents of empowerment, the Government is
B E E S F T T J O H H F O E F S E J T D S J N J O B U J P O C Z Q S P N P U J O H
education, health, housing, entrepreneurship and
T B G F U Z G P S X P N F O 5 P E B Z J U J T O P U K V T U B C P V U X P N F O h T
development but women-led development.
J … n ÎÓ r J 0 z ( 0 « 0 ª È n X Á ç
44.37
45.61
33.89 33.92 34.28
35.47
0.00
5.00
10.00
15.00
20.00
25.00
30.00
35.00
40.00
45.00
50.00
2018 2020 2021 2022 2023
India World
Year
Proportion of elected seats held by women
in deliberative bodies of local government (%)
Figure 21: Proportion of elected seats held by women
in deliberative bodies of local government (%)
Source: UN Women in collaboration with ESCAP Statistics Division, National Indicator Framework, MoSPI and
Ministry of Panchayati Raj Institutions. Administrative data based on election results at the level of Gram
Panchayat, Panchayat Samiti, and Zila Parishad.
¶ 0 L V V L R Q 6 K D N W L · L V D Q H Q G H D Y R X U E \ W K H * R Y H U Q P H Q W
W K D W L Q F O X G H V L Q W H U Y H Q W L R Q V W R H Q V X U H Z R P H Q · V V D I H W \
security and empowerment. Under the mission, One
Stop Centres are providing integrated support and
assistance to women affected by violence and those
in distress, both in private and public spaces in a
convergent and coordinated manner under one roof.
Women Helplines (181-WHL) offer 24 x 7 x 365 toll
free emergency/non-emergency response services.
A total of 888 One Stop Centres (OSCs) have been approved out of which 802 OSCs are operational in 785
districts and assisting over 1 million women.
47
These centres have been set-up to provide integrated support
and assistance to women affected by violence and in distress, both in private and public spaces under one
U R R I D Q G W R I D F L O L W D W H L P P H G L D W H H P H U J H Q F \ D Q G Q R Q H P H U J H Q F \ D F F H V V W R D U D Q J H R I V H U Y L F H V W R À J K W
against any forms of violence against women.
¨ « … à X ( X z J X z Á 0 J « Á 0 ( ³ È ¨ ¨ … « Á z (
³ ³ X ³ Á z ! 0 Á … á … x 0 z
This is also integrated with the national Emergency
Response Support System (112) and other existing
helplines/institutions. The Nari Adalat initiative is
empowering women by offering services such as
alternate dispute resolution, grievance redressal,
counselling, evidence-based decision-making,
pressure group tactics, negotiation, mediation and
reconciliation.
J … n ÎÓ r J 0 z ( 0 « 0 ª È n X Á ç
6 K K X B M B B O E 4 X B E I B S ( S F I S F O B N F E B T 4 I B L U J
4 B E B O J T B O * O U F H S B U F E 3 F M J F G B O E 3 F I B C J M J U B U J P O
Home for women in distress situations including
U S B G m D L F E X P N F O 8 P S L J O H 8 P N F O ) P T U F M T S F O B N F E
B T 4 B L I J / J X B T Q S P N P U F B W B J M B C J M J U Z P G T B G F B O E
D P O W F O J F O U M Z M P D B U F E B D D P N N P E B U J P O G P S X P S L J O H
women in urban, semi-urban and also in rural areas
X I F S F F N Q M P Z N F O U P Q Q P S U V O J U J F T G P S X P N F O F Y J T U 5 I F
/ B U J P O B M $ S F D I F 4 D I F N F S F O B N F E B T 1 B M O B B J N T U P
J O D S F B T F U I F Q B S U J D J Q B U J P O P G X P N F O J O U I F X P S L G P S D F
J O U I F F D P O P N Z C Z Q S P W J E J O H R V B M J U Z D S Ò D I F G B D J M J U J F T J O
a safe and secure environment for children.
4 " / , " - 1 ) V C G P S & N Q P X F S N F O U P G 8 P N F O ) & 8
facilitates intersectoral convergence of schemes and
programmes meant for women and serves as a single
window inter-sectoral convergence mechanism
Q S P W J E F E G P S B M M X P N F O U P B W B J M U I F C F O F m U T P G
H P W F S O N F O U T D I F N F T * U E J T T F N J O B U F T J O G P S N B U J P O
S F M B U F E U P X P N F O F N Q P X F S N F O U T B G F U Z B O E T F D V S J U Z
and to ensure that women have access to correct
information as well as the means to access the
A total of 8.438 million women have been assisted by the 181 Women Helpline across the country since
inception till 31 January 2025.
8 P N F O h T F N Q P X F S N F O U J T D P O U J O H F O U V Q P O U I F
F D P O P N J D F N Q P X F S N F O U P G X P N F O 5 I B U J T X I Z U I F
( P W F S O N F O U I B T U B L F O T U F Q T U P Q S P N P U F m O B O D J B M
J O D M V T J P O B N P O H X P N F O U I S P V H I J O J U J B U J W F T M J L F
4 U B O E 6 Q * O E J B B O E 1 S B E I B O . B O U S J . V E S B : P K B O B
1 . . : 5 I F 4 U B O E 6 Q * O E J B T D I F N F G P D V T F T P O
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F O U F S Q S J T F T B N P O H X P N F O 4 D I F E V M F E $ B T U F T 4 $
B O E 4 D I F E V M F E 5 S J C F T 4 5 4 J N J M B S M Z 1 . . : B J N T U P
Q S P W J E F m O B O D J B M B T T J T U B O D F U P O P O D P S Q P S B U F
F O U J U M F N F O U T 4 J O D F J U T J O D F Q U J P O J O U J M M U I F F O E P G
B U P U B M P G X P N F O I B W F C F F O
supported through the hub.
0 U I F S T D I F N F T Q S P K F D U T J N Q M F N F O U F E C Z U I F
H P W F S O N F O U U P F O T V S F X P N F O T T B G F U Z J O D M V E F B
D Z C F S D S J N F S F Q P S U J O H Q P S U B M U P S F Q P S U P C T D F O F
D P O U F O U B O E F T U B C M J T I N F O U P G 4 U B U F P G " S U % / "
- B C P S B U P S Z U P T U S F O H U I F O ' P S F O T J D 4 D J F O D F * O
B E E J U J P O U P U I J T ' B T U 5 S B D L 4 Q F D J B M $ P V S U T ' 5 4 $ T
I B W F C F F O F T U B C M J T I F E J O D M V E J O H F Y D M V T J W F 1 0 $ 4 0
F 1 0 $ 4 0 $ P V S U T G P S T Q F F E Z E J T Q P T B M P G D B T F T P G
rape and cases under POCSO Act. Anti-Human
5 S B G m D L J O H 6 O J U T " ) 5 6 T I B W F C F F O T F U V Q B O E
T U S F O H U I F O F E J O B M M E J T U S J D U T P G U I F D P V O U S Z 8 P N F O
) F M Q % F T L T 8 ) % T I B W F C F F O T F U V Q B O E P S
strengthened at Police Stations. The Government has
B M T P Q V U J O Q M B D F U I F * O W F T U J H B U J P O 5 S B D L J O H 4 Z T U F N G P S
4 F Y V B M 0 G G F O D F T B O P O M J O F B O B M Z U J D U P P M G P S U S B D L J O H
B O E N P O J U P S J O H P G J O W F T U J H B U J P O " / B U J P O B M % B U B C B T F
P G 4 F Y V B M 0 G G F O E F S T / % 4 0 I B T B M T P C F F O D S F B U F E
O P O G B S N N J D S P B O E T N B M M F O U F S Q S J T F T " S P V O E
of the loans have been sanctioned to women
F O U S F Q S F O F V S T V O E F S 1 . . : B O E P G U I F
C F O F m D J B S J F T V O E F S 4 U B O E 6 Q * O E J B B S F X P N F O
48
. B I J M B 4 B N N B O 4 B W J O H T $ F S U J m D B U F X B T J O U S P E V D F E
B T Q B S U P G U I F 6 O J P O # V E H F U X I J D I J T B
T N B M M T B W J O H T T D I F N F F Y D M V T J W F M Z G P S G F N B M F
investors. These initiatives have enabled women to
chart their paths and contribute to the economic
growth of the nation.
404 Shakti Sadans have been established across the country to provide temporary shelter along with basic Q H F H V V L W L H V W R G H V W L W X W H Z R P H Q D Q G Z R P H Q Z K R D U H Y L F W L P V R I W U D I À F N L Q J 6 S H F L À F D O O \ L Q 7 H O D Q J D Q D W K H 6 W D W H Government has signed a MoU with a technical university where the residents of Shakti Sadan are eligible to undergo short-term or medium-term vocational education that will assist them in employment after their time in Shakti Sadan.
³ R k Á X ³ ( z r X z Á 0 J « Á 0 ( « 0 n X 0 I
z ( « 0 R X n X Á Á X … z R … x 0
J … n ÎÓ r J 0 z ( 0 « 0 ª È n X Á ç
The Women Entrepreneurship Platform (WEP) is an aggregator platform launched in 2018 that transitioned into
a public-private partnership (PPP) in 2022. WEP serves as an aggregator platform working on building a robust
entrepreneurial ecosystem for women towards enabling the goal of the government to promote women-led
development through entrepreneurship.
Premised on three foundational pillars of ichcha shakti (the power of motivation), gyaan shakti (the power of
knowledge) and karam shakti (power of action), WEP endeavours to support women in setting up and scaling
up enterprises by overcoming information asymmetry and providing hand-holding support by in six key
ecosystem needs, viz. Access to Finance; Market Linkages; Training and Skilling; Mentoring and Networking;
Compliance and Legal Assistance and Business Development Services.
, Q : ( 3 O D X Q F K H G L W V Á D J V K L S $ Z D U G 7 R 5 H Z D U G $ 7 5 L Q L W L D W L Y H L Q D Q D W W H P S W W R I R U P X O D W H D I U D P H Z R U N W R
on-board partners to collaborate. ATR is a plug and play framework that enables entities – both individuals and
R U J D Q L V D W L R Q V ² I U R P G L I I H U H Q W À H O G V W R Z R U N L Q D S U R J U D P P D W L F D S S U R D F K V H D P O H V V O \ 6 L Q F H W K H O D X Q F K R I W K H
À U V W $ 7 5 L Q 2 F W R E H U V R I D U $ 7 5 V K D Y H E H H Q O D X Q F K H G L P S D F W L Q J Z R P H Q D Q G U H Z D U G L Q J E H V W
performers in diverse sectors like green tech, retail, hospitality etc.
WEP has a robust knowledge portal that houses information on 835 Government schemes, 500+ incubators
and accelerators and 36 mentorship programmes. This helps overcome information asymmetry by providing
seamless access to relevant information. Recognising the importance of mentorship, WEP has both digital and
S K \ V L F D O L Q L W L D W L Y H V W R S U R P R W H : ( 3 K D V D V S H F L À F S R U W D O W K D W S U R Y L G H V R Q H W R R Q H P H Q W R U V K L S W R Z R P H Q D Q G
presently has more than 630 mentors on the platform.
WEP has achieved a major milestone of completing 7-years and reaching over 50,000 registered users, a
number that is growing. It has more than 40 partner organisations to support its initiatives. WEP has mobilised
a substantial number of volunteers who work pro bono to further its cause in varied ways. These partnerships
drive knowledge sharing, funding opportunities, mentorship programmes and business growth strategies
D L P H G V S H F L À F D O O \ D W Z R P H Q O H G E X V L Q H V V H V
¨ « … x … Á X z J Á R 0 à n È 0 … I
Á R 0 J X « n ! R X n (
O O F P G U I F L F Z J O J U J B U J W F T G P S X P N F O T F N Q P X F S N F O U J O
U I F D P V O U S Z I B T C F F O U I F # F U J # B D I B P # F U J 1 B E I B P
# # # 1 T D I F N F X I J D I I B T H F O F S B U F E T J H O J m D B O U N B T T
mobilisation to combat gender discrimination and
Q S P N P U F U I F W B M V F P G U I F H J S M D I J M E " U F W F S Z M F W F M U I F
T D I F N F I B T X P S L F E E J M J H F O U M Z U P S B J T F B X B S F O F T T B C P V U
U I F S J H I U T P G H J S M D I J M E S F O U I S P V H I D P N N V O J U Z
F O H B H F N F O U B O E B E W P D B U J O H B H B J O T U T F Y T F M F D U J P O B U
C J S U I 0 W F S U I F Z F B S T U I F S F I B T C F F O B D P N N F O E B C M F
J N Q S P W F N F O U J O U I F T F Y S B U J P B U C J S U I X J U I B O F U D I B O H F
P G Q P J O U T G S P N U P
48
á … x 0 z 0 z Á « 0 ¨ « 0 z 0 È « ³ R X ¨ ¨ n Á I … « x h á 0 ¨i
. D Q \ D - D Q P R W V D Y L V D Á D J V K L S L Q L W L D W L Y H X Q G H U W K H % H W L % D F K D R % H W L 3 D G K D R % % % 3 L Q 8 W W D U 3 U D G H V K D L P H G D W transforming societal mindsets. The initiative celebrates the birth of girl children, challenges patriarchal norms and reinforces the importance of gender equality. It seeks to create a society where girls are born, nurtured and educated D V H T X D O V H P S R Z H U H G W R E H F R P H I X W X U H O H D G H U V 7 K L V S U R J U D P P H L V R U J D Q L V H G R Q W K H À U V W D Q G W K L U G 0 R Q G D \ R I every month so that a continuous and sustained message about the value of girl child is spread in the society.
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! R … 0 Á X ¨ ( R … X z È Á Á « ¨ « ( 0 ³ R
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India will continue its policy efforts and leadership at
national, state, district, block and village levels to
monitor and advance progress on gender equality and
ensure the empowerment of women and girls.
In India, as per the Periodic Labour Force Survey,
R I Z R P H Q L G H Q W L À H G F K L O G F D U H D Q G
homemaking responsibilities as barriers,
underscoring the need for societal and policy
interventions to balance work and family.
As per National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5)
23.3% of women aged 20- 24 years were married
before the age of 18 years in 2019-21. This shows
that prevalence of child marriage, which was
approximately 47% reported under NFHS-3 in
2005-06, has declined by more than half since
enactment of the 'The Prohibition of Child Marriage
Act, 2006' (PCMA). Government enacted PCMA to
curb child marriages and to take punitive action
against those associated with child marriages. Further
progress can be supported through initiatives like
¶ & K L O G + H O S O L Q H · Z K L F K S U R Y L G H H P H U J H Q F \ R X W U H D F K
service for children in crisis, with suitable
interventions for children who call for any form of
assistance which they may require, including for
prevention of child marriages. These issues are
addressed in coordination with different stakeholders
such as police, CMPOs,and the District Child
Protection Units.
As women persist in overcoming obstacles and
breaking down barriers, their advancement fuels
empowerment, generates employment opportunities
and lays the groundwork for more inclusive economic
development, an effort that will continue to be
supported by various government initiatives aimed at
promoting women's economic empowerment.
83
06
GOAL
Clean
Water and
Sanitation
Goal 6 calls for access to safe and affordable drinking
water, sanitation facilities, water resource
management and hygiene for all by 2030. Water
resources are also critical for agriculture and
industrial use and therefore protecting and restoring
water-related ecosystems is essential. The goal is
aimed at improving water quality by reducing
Q P M M V U J P O T V C T U B O U J B M M Z J O D S F B T J O H X B U F S V T F F G m D J F O D Z
across all sectors and strengthening the participation
of local communities in improving water and
sanitation management.
Clean water and sanitation are essential for promoting
good health, preventing the spread of diseases and
ensuring overall well-being. Access to clean water
and proper sanitation facilities is a fundamental
human right and a crucial aspect of sustainable
development. Clean water and sanitation protect
people from disease and enhance their economic
productivity. Water scarcity, poor water quality and
inadequate hygiene negatively impact food security,
livelihood choices and educational opportunities for
low-income families worldwide. The 2030 Agenda
recognises that social development and economic
prosperity depend on the sustainable management of
freshwater resources and ecosystems.
ENSURING UNIVERSAL
ACCESS TO SAFE AND
AFFORDABLE DRINKING
WATER
Despite facing substantial demand and limited water
resources, India is committed to providing safe and
potable tap water supply in adequate quantity, of
prescribed quality and on a regular and long-term
basis to all rural households in the country. The Jal
Jeevan Mission has been instrumental in ensuring the
Q S P W J T J P O P G T V G m D J F O U X B U F S B O E T B O J U B U J P O
infrastructure. The Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) was
launched in 2019 with the ambitious goal of providing
portable tap water in adequate quantity to every rural
household by 2024. At the time of its inception, only
32.3 million (17%) of rural households had tap water
connections. By March 2025, out of 193.6 million rural
households in the country, more than 155.4 million
(80.26%) households are reported to have tap water
supply in their homes.
50
This initiative is not only
delivering clean water to all but also reducing the
rural-urban divide and enhancing public health.
6 L Q F H ¬ , Q G L D K D V E H H Q R U J D Q L V L Q J , Q G L D : D W H U : H H N D S L Y R W D O H Y H Q W L Q J O R E D O Z D W H U G L S O R P D F \ R I I H U L Q J D S O D W I R U P I R U G L D O R J X H L Q Q R Y D W L R Q D Q G N Q R Z O H G J H V K D U L Q J ( D F K H G L W L R Q I R F X V H V R Q D V S H F L À F Z D W H U U H O D W H G L V V X H S U R Y L G L Q J S R O L F \ P D N H U V H [ S H U W V D Q G L Q G X V W U \ O H D G H U V W K H R S S R U W X Q L W \ W R S U H V H Q W V R O X W L R Q V D Q G H [ S O R U H F R R S H U D W L Y H V W U D W H J L H V 7 K H W K H G L W L R Q Z D V K H O G L Q X Q G H U W K H W K H P H 3 D U W Q H U V K L S V D Q G & R R S H U D W L R Q I R U , Q F O X V L Y H : D W H U ' H Y H O R S P H Q W D Q G 0 D Q D J H P H Q W
The implementation of the Jal Jeevan Mission has C S P V H I U T J H O J m D B O U J N Q S P W F N F O U T J O S V S B M M J G F B T highlighted by several national and international institutions. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimated that achieving saturation under JJM will result in savings of more than 55 million hours of time every day, of which approximately 75% of the burden is borne by women. WHO has also estimated that ensuring safely managed drinking water for all households in the country could prevent nearly 4,00,000 deaths caused by diarrheal diseases leading to savings of approximately 14 million Disability Adjusted Life Years (DALYs), resulting in economic savings of around US $101 billion. The Indian Institute of Management Bangalore in partnership with ILO has estimated that implementation of the JJM shall result in 5.99 million person-years of direct and 22 million person-years of indirect employment during the capex phase of JJM in the country through manpower engaged in production of the materials such as pipes, valves, pumps etc.
Jal Jeevan Mission operates on a decentralised and community-driven model, prioritising the active involvement of local communities. By encouraging community participation in planning, implementation and management, the Mission not only ensures the sustainability of water supply systems but also instil a sense of ownership and empowerment among the rural communities. Ensuring water quality is one of the main objectives of the Jal Jeevan Mission. To ensure that the supplied water is of adequate quality the programme promotes regular testing of water samples at source and delivery points.
J … n ÎÔ r ! n 0 z á Á 0 « z ( ³ z X Á Á X … z
85
UNIVERSAL SANITATION
To accelerate the efforts to achieve universal sanitation
coverage, the Swachh Bharat Mission was
implemented as nation-wide campaign/Janandolan
aimed at eliminating open defecation in rural areas
during the period 2014 to 2019 (Phase I) through mass
scale behaviour change, construction of
household-owned and community-owned toilets and
establishing mechanisms for monitoring toilet
construction and usage. Swachh Bharat Mission
Grameen (SBM-G) Phase I was the world’s largest
sanitation drive that led to the construction of over 100
N J M M J P O J O E J W J E V B M I P V T F I P M E U P J M F U T P W F S B m W F Z F B S
period. The population living in households that use an
improved sanitation facility has increased to 70.2%
(NFHS-5 2019-21) from 48.5% (NFHS-4 2015-16).
51
More than 6 lakh villages declared themselves Open
Defecation Free (ODF) by 2nd October 2019. Building
on this success, SBM-G Phase II aims to achieve
Sampoorn Swachhata with a continued emphasis on
sustaining Open Defecation Free (ODF) status, while
also focusing on: sustaining ODF status, promotion of
twin pit (in-situ treatment), managing solid and liquid
waste, achieving visual cleanliness in rural areas and
transforming villages into ODF Plus models. As reported
by UNICEF, this initiative has reduced groundwater
7 H F K Q R O R J \ L V H Q D E O L Q J H I À F L H Q W W U D Q V S D U H Q W D Q G V X V W D L Q D E O H Z D W H U V X S S O \ P D Q D J H P H Q W L Q U X U D O D U H D V 6 W D W H V 8 7 V K D Y H O H Y H U D J H G L Q Q R Y D W L Y H W H F K Q R O R J L H V W R L P S U R Y H V H U Y L F H G H O L Y H U \ D F F R X Q W D E L O L W \ D Q G U H D O W L P H G H F L V L R Q P D N L Q J
• ´ - K D U - D O µ ' L J L W D O 3 O D W I R U P L Q - K D U N K D Q G X V H V * , 6 P D S S L Q J I R U H I I H F W L Y H V F K H P H D Q G D V V H W P R Q L W R U L Q J
L Q W H J U D W H V Z D W H U T X D O L W \ D V V H V V P H Q W V D Q G J U L H Y D Q F H U H G U H V V D O P H F K D Q L V P V D Q G H Q V X U H V H T X L W D E O H D Q G V D I H G U L Q N L Q J Z D W H U V X S S O \
• 6 P D U W : D W H U 0 D Q D J H P H Q W L Q * R D L P S O H P H Q W V G L J L W D O Z D W H U P H W H U V D Q G D G L J L W D O S D \ P H Q W V \ V W H P D Q G K D V D Q
, R 7 E D V H G V P D U W Z D W H U P D Q D J H P H Q W I R U U H D O W L P H P R Q L W R U L Q J , W H Q K D Q F H V X V H U F K D U J H F R O O H F W L R Q D Q G H Q V X U H V H T X L W D E O H Z D W H U G L V W U L E X W L R Q
• ´ - - 0 % 5 $ , 1 µ % X L O G L Q J 5 H O L D Q W D Q G $ Q D O \ W L F D O , Q I R U P D W L R Q 1 H W Z R U N L Q $ V V D P L V D F R P S U H K H Q V L Y H G L J L W D O
S O D W I R U P G H V L J Q H G W R V W U H D P O L Q H D Q G F H Q W U D O L V H W K H L P S O H P H Q W D W L R Q D Q G R S H U D W L R Q R I 3 L S H : D W H U 6 X S S O \ 6 F K H P H V 3 : 6 6 , W I H D W X U H V D & R Q W U D F W R U 7 D V N 6 X E P L V V L R Q 6 \ V W H P D Q G D Q L Q W H J U D W H G 3 X E O L F * U L H Y D Q F H 5 H G U H V V D O 6 \ V W H P 3 * 5 6 E R W K O L Q N H G W R D X Q L T X H 4 5 F R G H E D V H G L G H Q W L À H U F D O O H G - D O . R V K Z K L F K F D S W X U H V V W D W L F D Q G G \ Q D P L F V F K H P H G D W D - - 0 % 5 $ , 1 H Q K D Q F H V S U R M H F W W U D F N L Q J S H U I R U P D Q F H J X D U D Q W H H P D Q D J H P H Q W D Q G L Q F R U S R U D W H V * , 6 P D S S L Q J I R U V S D W L D O D Q D O \ V L V H Q D E O L Q J H I À F L H Q W W U D Q V S D U H Q W D Q G G D W D G U L Y H Q G H F L V L R Q P D N L Q J D F U R V V D O O O H Y H O V R I V F K H P H H [ H F X W L R Q
contamination by 12.7 times in ODF villages. Additionally, women in ODF villages have reported feeling 93% safer after access to household toilets.
52
Toilet facilities in India have improved substantially, with both access and quality of sanitation J O G S B T U S V D U V S F T I P X J O H T J H O J m D B O U H B J O T F T Q F D J B M M Z J O rural areas. According to NFHS-5 (2019-21), 69% of households have access to improved sanitation facilities, 64% of rural households and 81% of urban households have access to improved, not shared facilities (See Figure 22).
TECHNOLOGY TRANSFORMING THE IMPLEMENTATION
… I Á R 0 h n h 0 0 à z x X ³ ³ X … z h h h xi
J … n ÎÔ r ! n 0 z á Á 0 « z ( ³ z X Á Á X … z
86
Figure 22: Household Toilet Facilities by Residence,
2019-2021 (Percent of population)
No facility / uses open space / field Unimproved Shared facility Improved, not shared facility
19
26
6.1
2.9
3.1
2.7
8.4
7.4
11
69
64
81
Total Rural Urban
6 R X U F H 1 D W L R Q D O ) D P L O \ + H D O W K 6 X U Y H \ 5 R X Q G
J … n ÎÔ r ! n 0 z á Á 0 « z ( ³ z X Á Á X … z
87
Figure 23: Percentage of sewage treated before discharge into surface water bodies
27.96
47.96
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
2020 2022
Percentage of sewage treated before discharge
into surface water bodies
6 R X U F H 0 L Q L V W U \ R I ( Q Y L U R Q P H Q W ) R U H V W D Q G & O L P D W H & K D Q J H
IMPROVED WATER
RESOURCES MANAGEMENT
In addition to Jal Jeevan, the Government of India has
initiated a number of steps and launched various
schemes/ programmes for making availability of
water, its conservation and distribution, which have
led to steady improvement in India’s degree of
integrated water resources management. This is
S F n F D U F E J O J N Q S P W F N F O U B D S P T T B M M G P V S E J N F O T J P O T
enabling environment, institutions and participation,
N B O B H F N F O U J O T U S V N F O U T B O E m O B O D J O H C F U X F F O
2020 and 2023 (See Figure 24).
Simultaneously, SBM-Urban 2.0, launched in 2021
has a vision of achieving Garbage Free Status for all
cities through 100% source segregation, door to door
D P M M F D U J P O B O E T D J F O U J m D N B O B H F N F O U P G B M M G S B D U J P O T P G
X B T U F J O D M V E J O H T B G F E J T Q P T B M J O T D J F O U J m D M B O E m M M T
The aim is to ensure that no untreated faecal sludge or
used water is discharged into the environment, and all
used water (including sewerage and septage,
greywater and black water) is safely contained,
transported and treated. It also aims at remediation of
all legacy dumpsites and converting them into green
zones. Various municipal solid waste management
plants such as Waste-to-Compost (WtC),
Waste-to-Energy (WtE), Bio-methanation, Material
Recovery Facilities (MRF) and legacy waste
dumpsites remediation have been established.
Technology-driven initiatives such as the Swachhata
App and Google toilet locator have enhanced citizen
engagement and strengthened governance, in the
process ensuring timely grievance redressal and
improved access to sanitation facilities.
5 I F T F F G G P S U T N B S L B T J H O J m D B O U T U F Q U P X B S E T
sustained sanitation and inclusive hygiene practices
across rural and urban India. For instance, there has
been a substantial increase in the percentage of
sewage treated before discharge into surface water
bodies (See Figure 23).
Year
J … n ÎÔ r ! n 0 z á Á 0 « z ( ³ z X Á Á X … z
88
India Southern Asia World
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
2017 2020 2023
Section 3. Management instruments (%)
India
Southern Asia World
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
2017 2020 2023
4. Financing (%)
National Water Mission has been launched with the
objective of conservation of water, minimising
wastage and ensuring its more equitable distribution
both across and within States through integrated
X B U F S S F T P V S D F T E F W F M P Q N F O U B O E N B O B H F N F O U ø
Under this mission a campaign namely "SahiFasal"
has also been initiated to nudge farmers to favour
agricultural crops which consume less water and to
V T F X B U F S N P S F F G m D J F O U M Z J O B H S J D V M U V S F B T B Q B S U P G
E F N B O E T J E F N B O B H F N F O U ø " M T P U P Q S P N P U F E J B M P H V F
and information sharing among participants on a
variety of water related topics, a monthly seminar
series - “Water Talk” has been initiated with intent to
create awareness, build capacities of stakeholders
and to encourage people to become active
participants in the conservation and saving of water.
5 I F ( P W F S O N F O U J T B M T P J N Q M F N F O U J O H ø U I F " U B M # I V K B M
Yojana, in 8,213 water stressed Gram Panchayats
(GPs) in 80 districts of 7 States, viz., Gujarat, Haryana,
Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan
and Uttar Pradesh. The scheme marks a paradigm
shift from groundwater development to groundwater
management. Various water related works such as
check dams, farm ponds, community ponds, irrigation
open wells etc. have also been taken up under the
Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment
Guarantee Scheme. The Government’s continued
thrust on water conservation is yielding remarkable
S F T V M U T F W J E F O U J O U I F G P S N P G T J H O J m D B O U S F E V D U J P O J O
the number of water-stressed rural blocks from 2264
to 1456 (35% reduction).
53
Jal Shakti Abhiyan-I (JSA-I) was launched in 2019 in
256 water stressed districts to promote water
conservation and water resource management by
G P D V T J O H P O B D D F M F S B U F E J N Q M F N F O U B U J P O P G m W F U B S H F U
interventions, viz., water conservation and rainwater
harvesting, renovation of traditional and other water
bodies/ tanks, reuse and recharge of bore wells,
watershed development and intensive afforestation.
In 2021, “Jal Shakti Abhiyan: Catch the Rain” (JSA:
CTR) was initiated with the theme “Catch the Rain -
Where it Falls When it Falls” to cover all the blocks of
all districts (rural as well as urban areas) across the
country. One of the major interventions undertaken
under the campaign includes construction and repair
of rainwater harvesting structures including rooftop
and water harvesting structures.
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
2017 2020 2023
1. Enabling environment (%)
India
Southern Asia World
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
2017 2020 2023
2. Institutions and participation (%)
India
Southern Asia World
Figure 24: Degree of integrated water resources management implementation
6 R X U F H , : 5 0 ' D W D 3 R U W D O 8 1 ( 3 D Q G & H Q W U D O : D W H U & R P P L V V L R Q 0 L Q L V W U \ R I - D O 6 K D N W L
Years
Years
Years Years
Percentage
Percentage
Percentage
Percentage
J … n ÎÔ r ! n 0 z á Á 0 « z ( ³ z X Á Á X … z
89
The Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban
Transformation (AMRUT) focuses on the development
of basic urban infrastructure in the Mission cities in the
sectors of water supply, sewerage and septage
management, storm water drainage, green spaces
and parks and non-motorised urban transport.
AMRUT 2.0 has provisions for harvesting the
rainwater through storm water drains into the water
C P E Z X I J D I J T O P U S F D F J W J O H T F X B H F F G n V F O U
Through preparation of the ‘Aquifer Management
Plan’ cities aim to strategise groundwater recharge
augmentation by developing a roadmap for improving
rain water harvesting within city limits. Through the
IEC campaign awareness is created about practices
for water conservation like rainwater harvesting.
$ ¬ 0 D V W H U 3 O D Q I R U $ U W L À F L D O 5 H F K D U J H W R * U R X Q G Z D W H U ¬ L Q F R Q V X O W D W L R Q Z L W K 6 W D W H V 8 7 V K D V E H H Q S U H S D U H G , W L V D P D F U R O H Y H O S O D Q L Q G L F D W L Q J Y D U L R X V V W U X F W X U H V I R U W K H G L I I H U H Q W W H U U D L Q F R Q G L W L R Q V R I W K H F R X Q W U \ L Q F O X G L Q J H V W L P D W H G F R V W 7 K H 0 D V W H U 3 O D Q K D V S U R Y L V L R Q V I R U F R Q V W U X F W L R Q R I D E R X W P L O O L R Q 5 D L Q Z D W H U K D U Y H V W L Q J D Q G $ U W L À F L D O 5 H F K D U J H V W U X F W X U H V L Q W K H F R X Q W U \ W R K D U Q H V V E L O O L R Q & X E L F 0 H W U H % & 0 R I P R Q V R R Q U D L Q I D O O
0 L V V L R Q $ P U L W 6 D U R Y D U Z D V O D X Q F K H G L Q $ S U L O W R F R Q V W U X F W R U U H M X Y H Q D W H $ P U L W 6 D U R Y D U V S R Q G V L Q H D F K G L V W U L F W W R W D O O L Q J D F U R V V W K H F R X Q W U \ 7 K L V L Q L W L D W L Y H K D V P D G H V L J Q L À F D Q W S U R J U H V V L Q D G G U H V V L Q J W K H F U L W L F D O L V V X H R I Z D W H U V F D U F L W \ $ V R I - D Q X D U \ R Y H U 6 D U R Y D U V K D Y H E H H Q F R P S O H W H G H Q K D Q F L Q J V X U I D F H D Q G J U R X Q G Z D W H U D Y D L O D E L O L W \ D F U R V V Y D U L R X V U H J L R Q V
7 K H V H 6 D U R Y D U V K D Y H Q R W R Q O \
D G G U H V V H G L P P H G L D W H Z D W H U Q H H G V E X W D O V R H V W D E O L V K H G V X V W D L Q D E O H Z D W H U V R X U F H V V \ P E R O L V L Q J W K H J R Y H U Q P H Q W V F R P P L W P H Q W W R O R Q J W H U P H Q Y L U R Q P H Q W D O V X V W D L Q D E L O L W \ D Q G F R P P X Q L W \ Z H O O E H L Q J 3 K D V H , , R I 0 L V V L R Q $ P U L W 6 D U R Y D U L V H Q Y L V D J H G W R F R Q W L Q X H Z L W K D U H Q H Z H G I R F X V R Q H Q V X U L Q J Z D W H U D Y D L O D E L O L W \ Z L W K F R P P X Q L W \ S D U W L F L S D W L R Q - D Q % K D J L G D D U L D W L W V F R U H D Q G D L P V W R V W U H Q J W K H Q F O L P D W H U H V L O L H Q F H I R V W H U H F R O R J L F D O E D O D Q F H D Q G G H O L Y H U O D V W L Q J E H Q H À W V I R U I X W X U H J H Q H U D W L R Q V
WAY FORWARD
8 I J M F * O E J B I B T N B E F T J H O J m D B O U T U S J E F T V O E F S 4 % (
particularly in improving water supply and sanitation
coverage, issues related to water scarcity,
infrastructure gaps and quality of service delivery
O F F E T B U U F O U J P O / B U V S B M E J T B T U F S T Q B S U J D V M B S M Z n P P E T
and droughts, frequently disrupt water and sanitation
systems affecting the most vulnerable communities
and highlighting the need for resilient infrastructure.
These disruptions disproportionately impact women
and girls, who face unique health and safety risks due
to inadequate access to water, sanitation and hygiene
(WASH) facilities. Additionally, geographical challenges
in remote and ecologically sensitive areas along with
institutional gaps in planning and implementation
hinder sustained access to clean water.
Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana (PMKSY) is
being implemented to enhance physical access of
water on farms and expand cultivable area under
assured irrigation, improve on farm water use
F G m D J F O D Z J O U S P E V D F T V T U B J O B C M F X B U F S D P O T F S W B U J P O
practices etc. One of PMKSY’s components ‘Har Khet
Ko Pani’ is reviving irrigation potential by improvement
and restoration of water bodies by enhancing the tank
storage capacity, along with other multiple objectives
such as ground water recharge, increased availability
of drinking water, improvement of catchment of tank
commands etc.
Ensuring community participation, promoting
gender-sensitive policies and strengthening monitoring
and governance mechanisms are essential to address
these challenges. Active participation from both
individuals and communities is required, which can be
challenging in areas where traditional practices are
deeply entrenched.
Establishing comprehensive monitoring systems is
equally vital for accurately assessing progress and
J E F O U J G Z J O H H B Q T U I P V H I U I J T P G U F O F O U B J M T T J H O J m D B O U
resource and capacity requirements. Advancing
towards the targets of SDG 6 will require a holistic and
inclusive strategy that ensures sustainable water
resource management and equitable access for all.
MISSION AMRIT SAROVAR
J … n ÎÔ r ! n 0 z á Á 0 « z ( ³ z X Á Á X … z
90
07
GOAL
Affordable
and Clean
Energy
Energy security is a prerequisite for socio- economic
development. Access to energy enables people to
augment their income and productivity, enhance
access to healthcare, water and education and
improve their overall well- being. Goal 7 is aimed at
ensuring universal access to affordable, reliable and
F G m D J F O U F O F S H Z T F S W J D F T C Z & Y Q B O E J O H
infrastructure and upgrading technology to provide
D M F B O B O E F G m D J F O U F O F S H Z J T D S J U J D B M U P U I J T F O E F B W P V S
India, the world's third-largest energy consumer, is
poised for the highest energy demand growth. India's
F O F S H Z T F D V S J U Z J T B ø D S J U J D B M D P N Q P O F O U ø P G J U T
economic growth and sustainability goals. The Union
and State Governments have launched various
T D I F N F T B J N F E B U Q S P N P U J O H ø S F O F X B C M F F O F S H Z
F O I B O D J O H H S J E T U B C J M J U Z ø B O E ø S F E V D J O H D B S C P O
emissions. Guided by a “remove, target and shift”
strategy, India has steadily whittled down its fossil fuel
support, opening doors to new investments in solar
power, electric vehicles and a stronger energy grid.
ACCESS TO ENERGY
The Pradhan Mantri Sahaj Bijli Har Ghar Yojana -
Saubhagya was launched to achieve universal
I P V T F I P M E F M F D U S J m D B U J P O G P S Q S P W J E J O H F M F D U S J D J U Z
D P O O F D U J P O T U P B M M X J M M J O H V O F M F D U S J m F E I P V T F I P M E T J O
rural areas and all willing poor households in urban
B S F B T J O U I F D P V O U S Z " U P U B M P G N J M M J P O I P V T F I P M E T
of the country were provided with electricity
connection.
55
Currently the Government is further
supporting States under the ongoing Revamped
% J T U S J C V U J P O 4 F D U P S 4 D I F N F 3 % 4 4 G P S F M F D U S J m D B U J P O
P G U I P T F V O F M F D U S J m F E I P V T F I P M E T X I J D I X F S F M F G U P V U
V O E F S 4 " 6 # ) " ( : " 3 % 4 4 X B T J O J U J B U F E J O U P
support Distribution utilities i.e. DISCOMs/Power
Departments (PDs) to improve the operational
F G m D J F O D J F T B O E m O B O D J B M T V T U B J O B C J M J U Z P G U I F
distribution sector so as to provide quality and reliable
T V Q Q M Z P G Q P X F S ø
Energy Policies having a multi-fold impact are being
introduced. One such policy is Pradhan Mantri Kisan
Urja Suraksha Evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan
(PM-KUSUM) which provides energy and water
security to farmers and enhances their income,
de-dieselise the farm sector, and reduces
F O W J S P O N F O U B M Q P M M V U J P O " T P G % F D F N C F S P W F S
U I P V T B O E T P M B S Q V N Q T I B W F C F F O J O T U B M M F E
O B U J P O X J E F B T D P N Q B S F E U P U I P V T B O E T P M B S
Q V N Q T J O T U B M M F E C Z % F D F N C F S " E E J U J P O B M M Z
million grid-connected agriculture pumps have been
solarised.
0 O F P G U I F N P T U J N Q B D U G V M C F O F m U T P G U I F
scheme is the provision of assured daytime power for
irrigation. This reliable power supply allows farmers to
J S S J H B U F U I F J S m F M E T F G m D J F O U M Z B O E X J U I P V U J O U F S S V Q U J P O T
As a result farmers can optimise water usage, reduce
crop spoilage and increase yield.
J … n ÎÕ r I I … « ( n 0 z ( ! n 0 z 0 z 0 « J ç
To accelerate the growth of the biofuels sector and
B D I J F W F U I F F O I B O D F E F U I B O P M C M F O E J O H C Z U I F
Government has taken several measures. The
National Bioenergy Programme (NBP) focuses on
promoting the use of bioenergy and waste-to-energy
technologies to support clean energy solutions to
enhance energy security and support sustainable
development in India. This National policy as
B N F O E F E J O ø J O U F S B M J B ø B E W B O D F E U I F U B S H F U P G
Uttar Pradesh is pioneering a solar-powered drinking water initiative across 67,013 villages, generating 900 MW of solar energy to operate water schemes directly at the source. This eliminates electricity costs, reduces carbon emissions and ensures sustainable access to clean drinking water. The 33,157 schemes D U H S U R M H F W H G W R J H Q H U D W H P L O O L R Q F D U E R Q F U H G L W V D Q Q X D O O \ F R Q W U L E X W L Q J W R , Q G L D · V J R D O R I U H D F K L Q J Q H W ] H U R by 2070.
O In Meghalaya, over 530 Primary Health Centres (PHCs) and 305 food processing units are now solar-powered, ensuring uninterrupted services even in hard-to-reach areas. The commissioning of the 0 : * D Q R O 6 P D O O + \ G U R 3 U R M H F W L Q D Q G W K H L G H Q W L À F D W L R Q R I D G G L W L R Q D O V P D O O K \ G U R V L W H V U H Á H F W 0 H J K D O D \ D V V K L I W W R Z D U G F O H D Q H Q H U J \ D Q G M R E F U H D W L R Q L Q W K H J U H H Q V H F W R U
O , Q U R R I W R S V R O D U * X M D U D W D F F R X Q W V I R U Q H D U O \ S H U F H Q W R I , Q G L D · V W R W D O L Q V W D O O D W L R Q V % \ $ S U L O R Y H U 0.962 million customers have installed rooftop solar systems with a capacity of 5378 MW. Over the past 5 years, these systems have produced nearly 9.933 million units of electricity, resulting in saving of E L O O L R Q R Q H O H F W U L F L W \ $ G G L W L R Q D O O \ W K H + \ E U L G 5 ( 3 D U N L Q . D F F K K L V V H W W R E H F R P H $ V L D · V O D U J H V W with 37.35 GW capacity.
New renewable energy sources are transforming * O E J B T F O F S H Z M B O E T D B Q F 4 F F ' J H V S F T B O E This progress aligns with India’s commitment to B D I J F W J O H J U T ( 8 P G O P O G P T T J M G V F M F O F S H Z B T Q B S U of its ‘Panchamrit’ commitments made by the country B U $ 0 1 J O ( M B T H P X J O * O E J B T / B U J P O B M M Z Determined Contributions include the target to reduce emissions intensity of its GDP and has been F O I B O D F E U P Q F S D F O U C Z G S P N M F W F M B O E the target on cumulative electric power installed capacity from non-fossil fuel-based energy resources I B T C F F O F O I B O D F E U P C Z * O ' : U I F D P V O U S Z B E E F E ( 8 P G S F O F X B C M F F O F S H Z D B Q B D J U Z N B S L J O H B O J O D S F B T F P G O F B S M Z P W F S U I F Q S F W J P V T Z F B S T B E E J U J P O P G ( 8 * O E J B T solar power sector led the renewable energy growth, X J U I D B Q B D J U Z B E E J U J P O T T P B S J O H G S P N ( 8 J O ' : U P O F B S M Z ( 8 J O ' : B S F N B S L B C M F J O D S F B T F
57
5 I F D P V O U S Z B M T P B D I J F W F E U I F T J H O J m D B O U N J M F T U P O F P G T V S Q B T T J O H ( 8 P G J O T U B M M F E T P M B S D B Q B D J U Z U I J T year.
, F Z J O J U J B U J W F T T V D I B T U I F ø / B U J P O B M # J P & O F S H Z
Mission, National Green Hydrogen Mission, PM-KUSUM and PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana,
S F n F D U U I F O B U J P O h T D P N N J U N F O U U P B D M F B O F S B O E T F M G S F M J B O U F O F S H Z G V U V S F " T P G + B O V B S Z * O E J B T ø U P U B M O P O G P T T J M G V F M C B T F E F O F S H Z D B Q B D J U Z ø I B T S F B D I F E ø ( 8
59
* O U I F ( P W F S O N F O U M B V O D I F E U I F 1 . 4 V S Z B ( I B S . V G U # J K M J : P K B O B U I F ø X P S M E T M B S H F T U E P N F T U J D rooftop solar initiative, designed to promote rooftop solar energy adoption in residential areas. By Q S P W J E J O H m O B O D J B M J O D F O U J W F T B O E T V C T J E J F T G P S T P M B S panel installation the scheme enables households to generate their own electricity, reducing dependence on the national grid and lowering electricity bills. The J O J U J B U J W F U B S H F U T J O T U B M M B U J P O P G S P P G U P Q T P M B S J O N J M M J P O I P V T F I P M E T C Z . B S D I C Z Q S P W J E J O H V Q U P V O J U T P G G S F F F M F D U S J D J U Z F W F S Z N P O U I " T P G . B S D I P W F S N J M M J P O I P V T F I P M E T I B W F C F O F m U U F E G S P N the scheme.
Operational guidelines for the 'Model
Solar Village' scheme have also been issued, granting ` N J M M J P O U P U I F X J O O J O H W J M M B H F J O F B D I E J T U S J D U U P promote solar energy adoption and make villages self-reliant in energy.
C M F O E J O H P G F U I B O P M J O Q F U S P M U P & U I B O P M 4 V Q Q M Z : F B S & 4 : G S P N 1 V C M J D 4 F D U P S 0 J M Marketing Companies (OMCs) achieved the target of F U I B O P M C M F O E J O H J O Q F U S P M J O + V O F J F m W F N P O U I T B I F B E P G U I F U B S H F U E V S J O H & 4 :
0 W F S U I F M B T U Z F B S T F U I B O P M C M F O E J O H J O Q F U S P M C Z Public Sector OMCs has helped reduce B Q Q S P Y J N B U F M Z M B L I N F U S J D U P O O F T P G $ 0 ø emissions.
J … … ( ¨ « ! Á X ! 0 ³
J … n ÎÕ r I I … « ( n 0 z ( ! n 0 z 0 z 0 « J ç
J … n ÎÕ r I I … « ( n 0 z ( ! n 0 z 0 z 0 « J ç
Figure 25: Installed renewable electricity-generating capacity (watts per capita)
« 0 z 0 á n 0 0 z 0 « J ç ! ¨ ! X Á ç
6 R X U F H 5 H Q H Z D E O H H O H F W U L F L W \ J H Q H U D W L Q J F D S D F L W \ I U R P , 5 ( 1 $ V H O H F W U L F L W \ F D S D F L W \ G D W D E D V H
3 R S X O D W L R Q G D W D I U R P W K H 8 Q L W H G 1 D W L R Q V : R U O G 3 R S X O D W L R Q 3 U R V S H F W V
0
20
40
60
80
1 00
1 20
2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022
Wind
In dia Southern Asia World
0
20
40
60
80
1 00
1 20
1 40
1 60
1 80
2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022
Hydropower
In dia Southern Asia World
In dia Southern Asia World
0
20
40
60
80
1 00
1 20
1 40
2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022
Solar
0
50
1 00
1 50
2 00
2 50
3 00
3 50
4 00
4 50
2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022
All renewables
In dia Southern Asia World
95
Figure 26: Renewable energy share in the total installed electricity generation
0
5
10
15
20
25
30
35
400
50
100
150
200
250
300
350
400
2015-16 2016-17 2017-18 2018-19 2019-20 2020-21 2021-22 2022-23 2023-24
6 R X U F H 0 L Q L V W U \ R I 1 H Z D Q G 5 H Q H Z D E O H ( Q H U J \
Percentage
Billions of Units
2015-16 2016-17 2017-18 2018-19 2019-20 2020-21 2021-22 2022-23 2023-24
Figure 27: Installed renewable energy generating capacity in the country
(in watts per capita)
0.00
40.00
80.00
120.00
160.00
200.00250
200
150
100
50
0
6 R X U F H 0 L Q L V W U \ R I 1 H Z D Q G 5 H Q H Z D E O H ( Q H U J \
2014-15
Years
Years
Billions of Watts
Watts per capita
Installed electricity generation capacity in renewable energy (in Watt)Watts per capita (rhs)
Generation through RES including Hydro Share of RE including large hydro (%, rhs)
J … n ÎÕ r I I … « ( n 0 z ( ! n 0 z 0 z 0 « J ç
The programme also covers setting up biogas plants
for clean cooking fuel, lighting, meeting thermal and
small power needs of users which results in GHG
reduction. The programme has also improved
sanitation, women empowerment and creation of
rural employment and production of organic
enriched Bio-manure from the digested slurry from
biogas plants.
* O * O E J B M B V O D I F E U I F / B U J P O B M ( S F F O ) Z E S P H F O
Mission to make India a Global Hub for production,
V U J M J T B U J P O B O E F Y Q P S U P G ( S F F O ) Z E S P H F O B O E J U T
E F S J W B U J W F T 5 I F . J T T J P O J T E S J W J O H T J H O J m D B O U
decarbonisation of the economy and reduced
E F Q F O E F O D F P O G P T T J M G V F M J N Q P S U T B O E J T F Y Q F D U F E U P
D V U D B S C P O F N J T T J P O T C Z . . 5 C Z D S F B U F
K P C T C Z B O E B E E S F O F X B C M F F O F S H Z
D B Q B D J U Z P G ( 8 * O D F O U J W F T I B W F C F F O B X B S E F E
G P S ( S F F O ) Z E S P H F O Q S P E V D U J P O P G U P O T Q F S
annum. Projects are being piloted for the use of
hydrogen in various sectors such as steel and
U S B O T Q P S U " L F Z B D I J F W F N F O U J T U I F F T U B C M J T I N F O U P G ø
I Z E S P H F O Q S P E V D U J P O I V C T ø B D S P T T U I F D P V O U S Z
The Government is implementing the Renewable
Energy Research and Technology Development
(RETD) Programme to support R&D projects for
technology development and demonstration in
various areas of new and renewable energy such as
solar photovoltaic systems, biogas systems, waste to
energy systems, wind energy systems, hybrid
systems, storage systems, hydrogen and fuels cells,
geothermal, etc. The ultimate aim is to increase the
T I B S F P G S F O F X B C M F T J O U I F F O F S H Z N J Y J O U I F D P V O U S Z
6 O E F S U I J T Q S P H S B N N F * O E J B T m S T U I Z E S P H F O C V T U S J B M
I B T C F F O M B V O D I F E B O E I J H I F G m D J F O D Z Q F S P W T L J U F
T P M B S D F M M T P G F G m D J F O D Z B O E F G m D J F O U P G
perovskite-silicon tandem solar cells have been
developed.
! n 0 z ! … … k X z J I È 0 n
8 J U I U I F J N Q M F N F O U B U J P O P G 1 S B E I B O . B O U S J 6 K K X B M B
Yojana (PMUY) India has seen a substantial rise in the
V T B H F P G - 1 ( 1 . 6 : X B T M B V O D I F E J O U P Q S P W J E F
access to clean cooking through deposit free LPG
connection to women from poor households in order
to reduce the serious health hazards associated with
V T F P G D P O W F O U J P O B M D P P L J O H G V F M T V D I B T m S F X P P E
coal, cow dung etc. Use of LPG as cooking fuel frees
X P N F O G S P N U I F E S V E H F S Z P G D P M M F D U J O H m S F X P P E
reduces time spent on cooking and prevents
deforestation. Transition from biomass and traditional
fuels to LPG reduces the dependency on wood and
other biomass for cooking purposes, leading to a
decrease in deforestation and environmental
E F H S B E B U J P O 5 I J T C F O F m U T O P U P O M Z U I F I P V T F I P M E T
but also contributes to broader environmental
conservation efforts.
* O 4 F Q U F N C F S U I F U B S H F U U P S F M F B T F N J M M J P O
connections under PMUY was achieved. To cover the
S F N B J O J O H Q P P S I P V T F I P M E T 6 K K X B M B X B T M B V O D I F E
J O " V H V T U X J U I B U B S H F U U P S F M F B T F N J M M J P O
additional PMUY connections, which was achieved in
+ B O V B S Z 4 V C T F R V F O U M Z U I F ( P W F S O N F O U
decided to release more LPG connections under
6 K K X B M B B O E B T P G . B S D I U I F U P U B M O V N C F S P G
active domestic LPG consumers in India stands at
N J M M J P O J O D M V E J O H U I F N J M M J P O C F O F m D J B S J F T
of the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana.
¨ « … x … Á X z J 0 z 0 « J ç
0 I I X ! X 0 z ! ç
Unnat Jyoti by Affordable LEDs for All (UJALA)
set
out to revolutionise household lighting by providing
B G G P S E B C M F F O F S H Z F G m D J F O U - & % C V M C T U V C F M J H I U T B O E
fans to millions of Indian homes. UJALA has evolved
into the world’s largest zero-subsidy domestic lighting
Q S P H S B N N F F Y F N Q M J G Z J O H * O E J B h T D P N N J U N F O U U P
reducing energy consumption, enhancing
environmental awareness and fostering economic
F G m D J F O D Z 4 J O D F J U T J O D F Q U J P O J O N P S F U I B O ø
N J M M J P O - & % C V M C T ø I B W F C F F O E J T U S J C V U F E B D S P T T U I F
country
, making energy-saving technologies
accessible to households while addressing
D I B M M F O H F T T V D I B T I J H I F M F D U S J m D B U J P O D P T U T B O E
D B S C P O F N J T T J P O T ø * U T J N Q M F N F O U B U J P O B D S P T T B M M T U B U F T
has reduced annual household electricity bills and
enabled consumers to save money while improving
their quality of life. The UJALA scheme has
H F S N J O B U F E U I F T B M F P G ø C J M M J P O - & % C V M C T ø J O U I F
Indian market.
& M F D U S J D . P C J M J U Z 1 S P N P U J P O 4 D I F N F & . 1 4 X B T
launched with an aim to provide further impetus to the
green mobility and development of electric vehicle
(EV) manufacturing ecosystem in the country. This is a
fund limited scheme for faster adoption of electric
U X P X I F F M F S T F 8 B O E U I S F F X I F F M F S T F 8 U P
provide further impetus to green mobility and
J … n ÎÕ r I I … « ( n 0 z ( ! n 0 z 0 z 0 « J ç
97
á ç I … « á « (
India's energy landscape is undergoing a
transformative shift as the nation strives to meet its
B N C J U J P V T U B S H F U T V O E F S 4 % ( 8 J U I F M F D U S J D J U Z
E F N B O E Q S P K F D U F E U P J O D S F B T F G P V S U P m W F U J N F T C Z
N F U J D V M P V T Q M B O O J O H B O E T U S B U F H J D J O U F S W F O U J P O T
are essential to navigate the challenges and
opportunities in achieving this goal.
* O E J B I B T M B V O D I F E T F W F S B M n B H T I J Q J O J U J B U J W F T T V D I B T
the National Green Hydrogen Mission, PM-KUSUM
and production-linked incentive schemes to
accelerate its clean energy transition. These
programmes aim to foster a resilient and inclusive
energy ecosystem while aligning with the nation's
O F U [ F S P U B S H F U C Z 5 I F H P W F S O N F O U T Q S P B D U J W F
measures include substantial reductions in fossil fuel
T V C T J E J F T B O E J O O P W B U J W F U B Y B U J P O Q P M J D J F T U I B U
promote renewable energy projects. These efforts are
critical not only for addressing climate change but
also for stimulating economic growth and creating
employment opportunities.
The focus on emerging technologies such as green
hydrogen production, advanced battery storage
solutions and pump storage facilities underscores the
commitment to integrating variable renewable energy
sources into the grid. These innovations are pivotal for
F O T V S J O H Q P X F S B W B J M B C J M J U Z B O E F O I B O D J O H H S J E
reliability amidst increasing urbanisation and
industrialisation. However, India faces several
challenges in its pursuit of SDG 7, including the high
costs of emerging technologies, infrastructure
limitations such as land acquisition and connectivity
issues and the need for grid modernisation to
integrate variable renewable sources.
Addressing these challenges requires a holistic
B Q Q S P B D I U I B U F N Q I B T J T F T T J H O J m D B O U J O W F T U N F O U J O
renewable technologies, the development of new
skills and regulatory frameworks aligned with evolving
market dynamics. The transition towards a diverse
B O E D M F B O F S F O F S H Z N J Y T I P V M E C F E S J W F O C Z
ambitious sustainability targets while reimagining the
F O U J S F F O F S H Z M B O E T D B Q F & Y Q B O E J O H H S J E
infrastructure to accommodate growing power
demand from rapid urbanisation, investing in
advanced energy storage solutions, and developing
a skilled workforce tailored to the demands of a
T U D F O U V S Z F O F S H Z T Z T U F N B S F L F Z Q S J P S J U J F T
India's journey towards achieving SDG 7 is not just
about increasing capacity but also about transforming
its energy ecosystem into a catalyst for sustainable
growth and development. By addressing these
challenges, India can consolidate its position as a
global leader in the clean energy transition while
ensuring universal access to modern energy
T F S W J D F T 8 J U I D P O U J O V F E Q P M J D Z T V Q Q P S U J O D S F B T F E
investment and a focus on emerging technologies,
India is well-positioned to achieve its ambitious
S F O F X B C M F F O F S H Z U B S H F U T B O E D P O U S J C V U F T J H O J m D B O U M Z
to global efforts in addressing climate change.
developing an electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing
ecosystem in the country. Additionally, policies like PM
Electric Drive Revolution in Innovative Vehicle
Enhancement Scheme and PM-eBus Sewa Scheme
are supporting the deployment of e-buses and
incentivising sale of new emerging EV categories.
X z Á 0 « z Á X … z n
! … … ¨ 0 « Á X … z
Government is spearheading various international
initiatives to lead a clean energy transition. India was
one of the founding members of the International
4 P M B S " M M J B O D F J O / P W F N C F S B O E U I F ( M P C B M
# J P G V F M " M M J B O D F E V S J O H J U T ( Q S F T J E F O D Z J O
4 F Q U F N C F S * O U I F D P V O U S Z K P J O F E U I F
* O U F S O B U J P O B M & O F S H Z & G m D J F O D Z ) V C ) V C B H M P C B M
platform dedicated to fostering collaboration and
Q S P N P U J O H F O F S H Z F G m D J F O D Z X P S M E X J E F % V S J O H * O E J B
& O F S H Z 8 F F L * O E J B I P T U F E B . J O J T U F S J B M
Roundtable on Clean Cooking to discuss ways to
address challenges faced by the Global South and
share lessons from India’s Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala
Yojana (PMUY).
J … n ÎÕ r I I … « ( n 0 z ( ! n 0 z 0 z 0 « J ç
xxx 08
GOAL
Decent
Work and
Economic
Growth
Goal 8 promotes sustained economic growth, higher
levels of productivity and technological innovation.
Encouraging entrepreneurship and job creation are
crucial to this, as are effective measures to eradicate
G P S D F E M B C P V S N P E F S O T M B W F S Z B O E I V N B O U S B G m D L J O H
* U B M T P T F F L T U P Q S P U F D U M B C P V S S J H I U T B O E Q S P N P U F
policies which support decent job creation and safe
B O E T F D V S F X P S L J O H F O W J S P O N F O U T 8 J U I U I F T F U B S H F U T
in mind the goal is to achieve full and productive
F N Q M P Z N F O U B O E E F D F O U X P S L G P S B M M X P N F O B O E N F O
by 2030.
* O E J B h T F D P O P N J D U S B K F D U P S Z I B T C F F O N B S L F E C Z B
strong post-pandemic rebound followed by a phase
of steady stabilisation. This robust performance has
also been accompanied by an improvement in per
capita growth, positioning India among the fastest
growing major economies globally. This underscores
India's concerted efforts to realign its economic
G S B N F X P S L X J U I U I F U B S H F U T P G 4 % ( Q B W J O H U I F X B Z
for sustainable and inclusive development.
Key achievements include the launch of the National
4 J O H M F 8 J O E P X 4 Z T U F N B T B P O F T U P Q T I P Q G P S
J O W F T U P S T G P S U B L J O H B M M U I F S F H V M B U P S Z B Q Q S P W B M T B O E
services related to investments. The digitisation of 20
years of land and property records, the establishment
of transparency enablers in 2016 and the inception of
U I F $ F O U S B M * O T Q F D U J P O 4 Z T U F N $ * 4 J O B S F
evidence of the Government’s dedication to
streamlining compliance inspections.
The Uttar Poorva Transformative Industrialization
4 D I F N F 6 / / " 5 * J T B J N F E B U G P T U F S J O H
industrial development and generating employment in
the North-East Region. Its primary objective is to
create employment that drives overall
socio-economic development in the area. By
stimulating productive economic activity in both the
N B O V G B D U V S J O H B O E T F S W J D F T F D U P S T U I F T D I F N F T F F L T
to reach even the most challenging regions in line with
the principle of "Leave No One Behind”.
5 I F J O J U J B U J W F 4 U B S U V Q * O E J B B J N T U P T V Q Q P S U J O O P W B U J P O
and entrepreneurship by providing regulatory
support, funding opportunities and
ease-of-doing-business reforms to Indian
F O U S F Q S F O F V S T X I J M F U I F . J D S P 6 O J U T % F W F M P Q N F O U
B O E 3 F m O B O D F " H F O D Z . 6 % 3 " G B D J M J U B U F T B D D F T T U P
collateral-free micro-credit for small and micro
F O U F S Q S J T F T " E E J U J P O B M M Z V O E F S / 3 - . 3 V S B M 4 F M G
& N Q M P Z N F O U 5 S B J O J O H * O T U J U V U F T 3 4 & 5 * T B S F Q S P W J E J O H
FASTEST GROWING MAJOR
ECONOMY AND DECLINING
UNEMPLOYMENT
India has pursued a comprehensive strategy to
G P S N B M J T F J U T M B C P V S N B S L F U B O E J N Q S P W F T P D J B M
protection while simultaneously accelerating its
F D P O P N J D S F D P W F S Z % J H J U B M m O B O D J B M J O D M V T J P O
J O J U J B U J W F T E S J W F O C Z U I F + B O % I B O " B E I B B S . P C J M F
+ " . U S J O J U Z B O E U I F Q S P M J G F S B U J P O P G E J H J U B M Q B Z N F O U
T Z T U F N T I B W F T J H O J m D B O U M Z F Y Q B O E F E C B O L J O H B D D F T T
for the informal sector. Initiatives such as the Mahatma
( B O E I J / B U J P O B M 3 V S B M & N Q M P Z N F O U ( V B S B O U F F " D U
. ( / 3 & ( " I B W F Q S P W J E F E D S V D J B M F N Q M P Z N F O U
security during periods of economic uncertainty.
These measures have been
complemented by a robust rebound in per capita
growth, positioning India among the fastest growing
N B K P S F D P O P N J F T H M P C B M M Z 4 F F ' J H V S F
' V S U I F S N P S F U I F M B C P V S N B S L F U I B T F Y I J C J U F E B
steady decline in unemployment rates—falling from
J O o U P J O o B O E S F B D I J O H
J O 4 F F ' J H V S F
G S F F T L J M M U S B J O J O H D S F E J U B T T J T U B O D F B O E N F O U P S T I J Q U P
unemployed rural youth, aiming to promote
self-employment among the rural poor and enhance
their livelihood opportunities.
Numerous structural reforms have been implemented
to foster sustainable economic growth and productive
employment. These reforms have contributed to a
consistent increase in the number of patents granted,
S F n F D U J O H B T U S F O H U I F O J O H P G J O U F M M F D U V B M Q S P Q F S U Z
rights and innovation.
JÎ n ÎÖ s ( 0 ! 0 z Á á … « k z ( 0 ! … z … x X ! J « … á Á R
101
JÎ n ÎÖ s ( 0 ! 0 z Á á … « k z ( 0 ! … z … x X ! J « … á Á R
Figure 28: Annual growth rate of real GDP per capita (%)
-8
-6
-4
-2
0
2
4
6
8
10
2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022
India Southern Asia World
Source: United Nations, Department of Economic and Social Affairs, Statistics Division
0.0
1.0
2.0
3.0
4.0
5.0
6.0
7.0
2023-24
Male Female All-India
Figure 29: Unemployment rate
Source: Periodic Labour Force Survey, NSO, Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation
Percentage of labour force
Percentage
Year
Year
2022-232021-222020-212019-202018-192017-18
102
" T Q F S U I F M B U F T U B W B J M B C M F " O O V B M 1 - ' 4 S F Q P S U T U I F
F T U J N B U F E 6 O F N Q M P Z N F O U 3 B U F 6 3 P O V T V B M T U B U V T
G P S Z P V U I P G B H F Z F B S T J O U I F D P V O U S Z J O U I F Z F B S
X B T X I J D I J T M P X F S U I B O H M P C B M M F W F M T
' V S U I F S U I F 8 P S L F S 1 P Q V M B U J P O 3 B U J P 8 1 3 G P S Z P V U I
I B T J O D S F B T F E G S P N J O U P J O
5 I F ( P W F S O N F O U J T S V O O J O H U I F / B U J P O B M
$ B S F F S 4 F S W J D F / $ 4 1 P S U B M X I J D I J T B P O F T U P Q
T P M V U J P O U P Q S P W J E F D B S F F S S F M B U F E T F S W J D F T * O
the Government also announced the Prime Minister’s
Q B D L B H F P G T D I F N F T B O E J O J U J B U J W F T U P G B D J M J U B U F
F N Q M P Z N F O U T L J M M J O H B O E P U I F S P Q Q P S U V O J U J F T G P S
million youth over a 5-year period. These schemes
G P D V T P O U I F Z P V U I Q P Q V M B U J P O F O U F S J O H U I F X P S L G P S D F
in all formal sectors, job creation in manufacturing,
T V Q Q P S U U P F N Q M P Z F S T T L J M M J O H Z P V U I B O E Q S P W J E J O H
internships. The Union Budget 2025-2026 also aims
to create multiple employment generation
opportunities across various sectors such as
U P V S J T N N B O V G B D U V S J O H m T I F S J F T B O E B M T P J O D M V E F T
various measures to support entrepreneurship and
T L J M M J O H P G Z P V U I
India's vibrant startup ecosystem has surged to new
I F J H I U T ( P W F S O N F O U J O J U J B U J W F T T V D I B T 4 U B S U V Q * O E J B
and supportive reforms have spurred a dramatic
J O D S F B T F J O S F D P H O J T F E T U B S U V Q T G S P N J O o
U P P W F S C Z " C P V U P G U I F S F D P H O J T F E
startups have at least one-woman director. This
burgeoning landscape, characterised by enhanced
access to credit, robust incubation programmes and
T U S F B N M J O F E S F H V M B U P S Z G S B N F X P S L T I B T O P U P O M Z
fuelled innovation but also attracted record levels of
venture capital investment, with cumulative funding
reaching billions.
³ k X n n X z J I … « Á R 0 I È Á È « 0
5 I F 4 L J M M * O E J B . J T T J P O J T F R V J Q Q J O H Z P V U I X J U I
F T T F O U J B M J O E V T U S Z S F M F W B O U T L J M M T U I S P V H I W B S J P V T
Q S P H S B N N F T B O E J O J U J B U J W F T G P D V T F E P O T L J M M
E F W F M P Q N F O U S F T L J M M J O H B O E V Q T L J M M J O H J O U I F Q S P D F T T
empowering millions with the tools needed for
sustainable careers.
1 S B E I B O . B O U S J , B V T I B M 7 J L B T : P K B O B 1 . , 7 :
F O B C M F T E F M J W F S Z P G T L J M M U S B J O J O H J O B N B S L F U P S J F O U F E
B O E E F N B O E E S J W F O N B O O F S C Z N B L J O H U I F F Y J T U J O H
T L J M M J O H F D P T Z T U F N N P S F n F Y J C M F T X J G U B O E H F B S F E U P
meet the emerging demand along with emphasis on
improving the employability of candidates. It also
F O I B O D F T B D D F T T U P T L J M M E F W F M P Q N F O U J O G S B T U S V D U V S F
J O S F N P U F Q B S U T P G U I F D P V O U S Z 4 J O D F J U T
implementation in 2015, more than 16 million
D B O E J E B U F T I B W F C F F O U S B J O F E V O E F S 1 . , 7 : U J M M
% F D F N C F S J O D M V E J O H N J M M J P O X P N F O
6 O E F S U I F D V S S F O U Q I B T F P G 1 . , 7 : U I F G P D V T J T P O
T L J M M J O H J O * O E V T U S Z K P C S P M F T T V D I B T " * o % B U B
& O H J O F F S 5 F M F D P N 5 F D I O J D J B O o * P 5 % F W J D F T 4 Z T U F N T
% S P O F . B O V G B D U V S J O H B O E " T T F N C M Z 5 F D I O J D J B O
" E E J U J W F . B O V G B D U V S J O H % 1 S J O U J O H
4 L J M M * O E J B % J H J U B M ) V C Q M B U G P S N M B V O D I F E J O " V H V T U
2023 is a convergence platform facilitating access to
T L J M M J O H D S F E J U F N Q M P Z N F O U B O E F E V D B U J P O B M
S F T P V S D F T F T T F O U J B M G P S W P D B U J P O B M U S B J O J O H U I S P V H I " *
ML technology. The platform seamlessly incorporates
various government initiatives and services such as
F 4 I S B N & 1 ' 0 / $ 4 6 E Z B N % J H J - P D L F S ( B U J 4 I B L U J
6 . " / ( " H S J 4 U B D L 1 - * 4 D I F N F T B O E 0 % 0 1 F U D
4 J O D F J U T J O D F Q U J P O P W F S M B L I M F B S O F S T I B W F C F F O
S F H J T U F S F E B O E M B L I B Q Q T I B W F C F F O E P X O M P B E F E
4 L J M M T " D R V J T J U J P O B O E , O P X M F E H F " X B S F O F T T G P S
- J W F M J I P P E 1 S P N P U J P O 4 " / , " - 1 X B T M B V O D I F E ø J O
2018 to strengthen the institutional mechanisms for
T L J M M E F W F M P Q N F O U B O E J O D S F B T F B D D F T T U P R V B M J U Z B O E
N B S L F U S F M F W B O U U S B J O J O H G P S Z P V U I B D S P T T U I F D P V O U S Z
6 O M J L F P U I F S T L J M M E F W F M P Q N F O U T D I F N F T 4 " / , " - 1 J T
O P U B U S B J O J O H T Q F D J m D T D I F N F C V U G P D V T F T P O Q J M P U T
Q S P K F D U T * U B J N T U P J O D S F B T F R V B M J U Z J O T L J M M
E F W F M P Q N F O U Q S P H S B N N F T N B L J O H U I F N
N B S L F U S F M F W B O U B O E B D D F T T J C M F J O U I F D P O U F Y U P G
short-term training.
# Z Q S P W J E J O H n F Y J C M F B O E E P P S T U F Q T L J M M U S B J O J O H J O S V S B M
areas and marginalised urban communities with the
I F M Q P G M P D B M D P N N V O J U Z T V Q Q P S U + B O 4 I J L T I B O
4 B O T U I B O + 4 4 J T J N Q B S U J O H T L J M M E F W F M P Q N F O U U S B J O J O H
in non-formal mode to non-literates, neo-literates,
persons with a rudimentary level of education and
T D I P P M E S P Q P V U T 5 I J T T D I F N F B E E S F T T F T U I F T L J M M J O H
need of marginalised and ultra-poor populations
ensuring their social inclusion and last mile coverage.
* U J N Q B S U T W P D B U J P O B M T L J M M T B O E B M T P D S F B U F T
awareness among the rural masses on local issues,
T V D I B T I F B M U I Q F S T P O B M I Z H J F O F F E V D B U J P O m O B O D J B M
M J U F S B D Z B O E F O W J S P O N F O U J T T V F T # V J M E J O H P O U I F X P S L
P G U I F / B U J P O B M " Q Q S F O U J D F T I J Q 1 S P N P U J P O 4 D I F N F
/ " 1 4 J T Q S P N P U J O H B Q Q S F O U J D F T I J Q U S B J O J O H J O U I F
country by providing partial stipend support to the
B Q Q S F O U J D F T V O E F S U B L J O H D B Q B D J U Z C V J M E J O H P G U I F
apprenticeship ecosystem and providing advocacy
B T T J T U B O D F U P U I F T U B L F I P M E F S T ' S P N P O X B S E T U J M M
+ B O V B S Z N J M M J P O B Q Q S F O U J D F T I B E C F F O
successfully engaged.
JÎ n ÎÖ s ( 0 ! 0 z Á á … « k z ( 0 ! … z … x X ! J « … á Á R
103
" Q B S U G S P N G P D V T J O H P O E P N F T U J D T L J M M E F W F M P Q N F O U
* O E J B J T B M T P B M J H O J O H J U T X P S L G P S D F X J U I J O U F S O B U J P O B M
T U B O E B S E T S F J O G P S D J O H J U T W J T J P O P G C F D P N J O H U I F i 4 L J M M
$ B Q J U B M P G U I F 8 P S M E w * O E J B h T F G G P S U T J O T L J M M J O H B U
H M P C B M T U B O E B S E T B S F S F n F D U F E U I S P V H I T U S B U F H J D
J O J U J B U J W F T T V D I B T U I F * O E J B * O U F S O B U J P O B M 4 L J M M $ F O U S F T
* * 4 $ T B O E Q B S U O F S T I J Q T G B D J M J U B U F E U I S P V H I
( P W F S O N F O U U P ( P W F S O N F O U ( ( . F N P S B O E V N T P G
6 O E F S T U B O E J O H . P 6 T 5 I F F T U B C M J T I N F O U P G
* * 4 $ T B T B O O P V O D F E J O U I F ' : J O U F S J N C V E H F U
N B S L T B T J H O J m D B O U T U F Q U P X B S E T F O I B O D J O H * O E J B h T
H M P C B M T L J M M J O H G P P U Q S J O U $ V S S F O U M Z P Q F S B U J P O B M D F O U S F T
J O 7 B S B O B T J B O E 4 L J M M % F W F M P Q N F O U * O T U J U V U F 4 % *
! R z J X z J ! … z Á … È « ³ … I
INFORMAL SECTOR
EMPLOYMENT
Employment in India continues to be predominantly
D P O D F O U S B U F E J O U I F J O G P S N B M T F D U P S 4 F F ' J H V S F
) P X F W F S S B Q J E E J H J U B M Q F O F U S B U J P O J T S F T I B Q J O H U I J T
M B O E T D B Q F 5 I F & D P O P N J D 4 V S W F Z
underscores the need for India to generate on
B W F S B H F N J M M J P O O P O G B S N K P C T B O O V B M M Z V O U J M
U P G V M M Z F O H B H F J U T F Y Q B O E J O H X P S L G P S D F B D S J U J D B M T U F Q
toward leveraging the demographic dividend and
facilitating a structural shift from agriculture to
non-farm employment. In this evolving environment
U S B E J U J P O B M J O G P S N B M X P S L J T J O D S F B T J O H M Z
Bhubaneswar exemplify this initiative's early
T V D D F T T X J U I Q M B O T m O B M J T F E G P S T F W F O N P S F D F O U S F T
J O U I F m S T U Q I B T F
" E E J U J P O B M M Z * O E J B I B T G P S H F E . P 6 T X J U I Q S P N J O F O U
D P V O U S J F T J O D M V E J O H " V T U S B M J B % F O N B S L ' S B O D F
( F S N B O Z + B Q B O 2 B U B S 6 " & B O E U I F 6 , G P S
cooperation in information exchange, standard
T F U U J O H N V U V B M S F D P H O J U J P O P G R V B M J m D B U J P O T F U D 4 V D I
partnerships not only promote the international
N P C J M J U Z P G T L J M M F E * O E J B O X P S L F S T C V U B M T P Q S P N P U F
the global recognition and acceptance of Indian
R V B M J m D B U J P O T
5 I F ( P W F S O N F O U J T E S J W J O H T L J M M E F W F M P Q N F O U J O " S U J m D J B M * O U F M M J H F O D F " * ( S F F O & O F S H Z B O E 4 F N J D P O E V D U P S T
U P Q S F Q B S F B G V U V S F S F B E Z X P S L G P S D F " * B O E 3 P C P U J D T D P V S T F T I B W F C F F O J O U S P E V D F E B U U I F T D I P P M B O E I J H I F S
F E V D B U J P O M F W F M T B M P O H T J E F N J D S P D S F E F O U J B M T B O E / B U J P O B M 0 D D V Q B U J P O B M 4 U B O E B S E T / 0 4 G V U V S J T U J D
R V B M J m D B U J P O T J O B S F B T T V D I B T & 7 N B O V G B D U V S J O H " * . - E S P O F U F D I O P M P H Z B O E I F B M U I U F D I I B W F C F F O
E F W F M P Q F E * O R V B M J m D B U J P O T T U B O E B M P O F / 0 4 B O E N J D S P D S F E F O U J B M T X F S F B Q Q S P W F E
X I J M F P V U E B U F E R V B M J m D B U J P O T X F S F B S D I J W F E " T P G . B S D I B D U J W F R V B M J m D B U J P O T F Y J T U
J O D M V E J O H S F M B U F E U P G V U V S F T L J M M T
5 I F H S F F O F O F S H Z T F D U P S J T Q S P K F D U F E U P T F F B J O D S F B T F J O F N Q M P Z N F O U C Z 5 I F ( S F F O & O F S H Z 4 L J M M
$ B Q B D J U Z # V J M E J O H ' S B N F X P S L T V Q Q P S U T U I F U S B O T J U J P O U P B T V T U B J O B C M F F O F S H Z F D P O P N Z * U G P D V T F T P O
B E W B O D F N F O U T J O S F O F X B C M F U F D I O P M P H J F T T P M B S X J O E I Z E S P Q P X F S C J P F O F S H Z H F P U I F S N B M F O F S H Z T U P S B H F
M J U I J V N J P O T P M J E T U B U F C B U U F S J F T H S F F O I Z E S P H F O B O E T N B S U H S J E T " E W B O D F E . F U F S J O H * O G S B T U S V D U V S F
N J D S P H S J E T B O E & 7 J O G S B T U S V D U V S F 5 I F G S B N F X P S L Q S P N P U F T C M F O E F E M F B S O J O H B O E T F D U P S T Q F D J m D T L J M M J O H
Q M B O T B D S P T T W B S J P V T F O F S H Z T F D U P S T , F Z J O J U J B U J W F T J O D M V E F 5 S B J O J O H P G 5 S B J O F S T 5 P 5 5 S B J O J O H P G " T T F T T P S T
5 P " J O E V T U S Z B D B E F N J B D P M M B C P S B U J P O B Q Q S F O U J D F T I J Q T B O E T U B O E B S E J T F E D F S U J m D B U J P O Q S P D F T T F T
complemented by digital- driven roles, such as those
enabled by UPI payments, gig platforms and small
W F O E P S T I B W F C F F O J O D M V E F E J O U I F G P S N B M C B O L J O H
through digital intermediation.
Recent statistics reveal that the informal sector
D P O U S J C V U F E B Q Q S P Y J N B U F M Z U P U I F U P U B M ( % 1 J O ' :
5 I F 1 F S J P E J D - B C P V S ' P S D F 4 V S W F Z 1 - ' 4
J O E J D B U F T U I B U B C P V U P G X P N F O
employed in the non-agriculture sector are engaged
in informal enterprises.
X z X Á X Á X à 0 ³ I … « I È Á È « 0 ³ k X n n ³
JÎ n ÎÖ s ( 0 ! 0 z Á á … « k z ( 0 ! … z … x X ! J « … á Á R
Various policy interventions of the Government are
aimed at addressing the challenges associated with
J O G P S N B M J U Z 5 I F & 4 I S B N 1 P S U B M B D U T B T B P O F T U P Q
T P M V U J P O Q S P W J E J O H F B T Z B D D F T T U P 6 O J P O B O E 4 U B U F
Government welfare schemes for over 300 million
X P S L F S T J O U I F V O P S H B O J T F E T F D U P S " ø 1 M B U G P S N 8 P S L F S T
N P E V M F ø I B T C F F O ø E F W F M P Q F E P O F 4 I S B N ø U P G B D J M J U B U F
W F S J m D B U J P O P G 1 M B U G P S N 8 P S L F S T S F H J T U F S F E P O U I F
Q P S U B M U I S P V H I B H H S F H B U P S T 1 M B U G P S N " H H S F H B U P S T B S F
C F J O H F O D P V S B H F E U P S F H J T U F S P O F 4 I S B N Q P S U B M B O E
B M T P S F H J T U F S U I F Q M B U G P S N X P S L F S T F O H B H F E X J U I U I F N
5 I F T F T U F Q T B S F C F J O H U B L F O J O P S E F S U P X P S L U P X B S E T
extending full social security coverage to gig and
Q M B U G P S N X P S L F S T ( P W F S O N F O U I B T D P O E V D U F E
F Y U F O T J W F T U B L F I P M E F S D P O T V M U B U J P O T X J U I B H H S F H B U P S T
L O P X M F E H F Q B S U O F S T Q M B U G P S N X P S L F S P S H B O J T B U J P O T
B O E 4 U B U F ( P W F S O N F O U T 6 5 T U P F O T V S F B
D P N Q S F I F O T J W F V O E F S T U B O E J O H P G U I F 4 P D J B M 4 F D V S J U Z
Code, 2020. These consultations also aimed to
develop collaborative approaches for a social
T F D V S J U Z G S B N F X P S L U B J M P S F E U P H J H B O E Q M B U G P S N
X P S L F S T " D P M M B C P S B U J W F T U V E Z J T C F J O H V O E F S U B L F O
X J U I U I F * O U F S O B U J P O B M - B C P V S 0 S H B O J [ B U J P O * - 0 U P
comprehensively assess various factors related to
Q M B U G P S N X P S L F S T B O E E F W F M P Q B S P B E N B Q G P S
implementing a social security scheme for platform
X P S L F S T * O P S E F S U P Q S P W J E F N P S F T V Q Q P S U U P H J H
X P S L F S T U I F M B U F T U C V E H F U J O D M V E F T F Y U F O E J O H
I F B M U I D B S F C F O F m U T V O E F S 1 . + B O " S P H Z B : P K B O B U P
U I F Q M B U G P S N X P S L F S T B O E J T Q S P K F D U F E U P C F O F m U
B Q Q S P Y J N B U F M Z N J M M J P O H J H X P S L F S T
SUPPORTING MICRO,
SMALL AND MEDIUM
0 z Á 0 « ¨ « X ³ 0 ³ h x ³ x 0i
8 J U I N P S F U I B O N J M M J P O . J D S P 4 N B M M B O E . F E J V N
& O U F S Q S J T F T . 4 . & J O U I F D P V O U S Z U I F . 4 . & T F D U P S
has emerged as a highly vibrant and dynamic sector
of the Indian economy, fostering entrepreneurship
and generating employment opportunities at
comparatively lower capital cost, next only to
B H S J D V M U V S F ø . 4 . & T Q M B Z B W J U B M S P M F B T B O D J M M B S Z V O J U T
D P N Q M F N F O U J O H M B S H F J O E V T U S J F T B O E T J H O J m D B O U M Z
contributing to the country’s inclusive industrial
growth. These enterprises are continually expanding
their presence across various sectors of the economy
and offering a diverse array of products and services
U P N F F U C P U I E P N F T U J D B O E J O U F S O B U J P O B M N B S L F U
demands.
The Government has been focusing on formalisation
of these enterprises to provide an identity to the
. 4 . & F O U F S Q S J T F T B O E F B T F P G E P J O H C V T J O F T T " T P G
% F D F N C F S B T N B O Z B T N J M M J P O ø . 4 . & T X J U I
B O F N Q M P Z N F O U P G N J M M J P O B S F S F H J T U F S F E P O
6 E Z B N 3 F H J T U S B U J P O 1 P S U B M B O E 6 E Z B N " T T J T U 1 M B U G P S N
6 " 1 ø 5 I F $ S F E J U ( V B S B O U F F 4 D I F N F G P S . J D S P B O E
4 N B M M & O U F S Q S J T F T J T P O F P G U I F n B H T I J Q T D I F N F T P G
Q S P W J E J O H D P M M B U F S B M G S F F M P B O T U P . J D S P B O E 4 N B M M
Enterprises. This scheme was revamped in the year
2023, wherein ceiling limit of guarantee coverage was
Figure 30: Percentage of workers in informal sector among total workers
engaged in non-agriculture sector
60
65
70
75
80
85
2017-18 2018-19 2019-20 2020-21 2021-22 2022-23
Percentage
Rural Urban Total
Source: Periodic Labour Force Survey, NSO, Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation
Year
JÎ n ÎÖ s ( 0 ! 0 z Á á … « k z ( 0 ! … z … x X ! J « … á Á R
105
BOOSTING INNOVATION
z ( R « z 0 ³ ³ X z J
INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY
« X J R Á ³
5 I F 8 P S M E * O U F M M F D U V B M 1 S P Q F S U Z * O E J D B U P S T S F Q P S U
I J H I M J H I U T T J H O J m D B O U T U S J E F T C Z * O E J B J O G P T U F S J O H
J O O P W B U J P O U I S P V H I J O U F M M F D U V B M Q S P Q F S U Z * 1 J O J U J B U J W F T
India is in the top 10 across the three main intellectual
Q S P Q F S U Z * 1 S J H I U T J O D M V E F E J O U I F 8 * 1 * X J U I C P U I
patent and industrial design applications more than
E P V C M J O H C F U X F F O B O E B O E U S B E F N B S L
B Q Q M J D B U J P O T J O D S F B T J O H C Z ' V S U I F S B N P O H U I F
top 20 origins India recorded the fastest growth in
Q B U F O U B Q Q M J D B U J P O T B O E J O E V T U S J B M E F T J H O
B Q Q M J D B U J P O T J O N B S L J O H U I F m G U I
consecutive year of double-digit growth. Moving up
by one spot, India is in 10th position in industrial
E F T J H O B Q Q M J D B U J P O T J O
5 I F 1 B U F O U 0 G m D F I B T H S B O U F E Q B U F O U T J O ' :
7 B S J P V T T U F Q T U B L F O C Z U I F ( P W F S O N F O U U P
further strengthen the Intellectual Property Rights
* 1 3 F D P T Z T U F N J O * O E J B I B W F J O D M V E F E N P E F S O J T B U J P O
P G * 1 P G m D F T V T J O H * 5 F O B C M F E B O E B E W B O D F E
U F D I O P M P H J F T T P U I B U B M M E P D V N F O U T m M F E C F G P S F U I F
1 B U F O U 0 G m D F B S F D P N Q M F U F M Z E J H J U J T F E B O E B S F N B E F
B W B J M B C M F P O M J O F G P S Q S P D F F E J O H T M F B E J O H U P m O B M
E J T Q P T B M " T B S F T V M U B Q Q M J D B O U T O F F E O P U W J T J U 1 B U F O U
B O E 5 S B E F . B S L T 0 G m D F T G P S m M J O H Q S P D F T T J O H B O E
H F U U J O H 1 B U F O U B O E 5 S B E F N B S L H S B O U S F H J T U S B U J P O
D F S U J m D B U F T 0 X J O H U P G F F D P O D F T T J P O T J O Q B U F O U T
B Q Q M J D B U J P O T U I F S F I B T C F F O B ø T J H O J m D B O U J O D S F B T F J O
1 B U F O U m M J O H T C Z 4 U B S U V Q T . 4 . & T B O E & E V D B U J P O B M
* O T U J U V U F T 4 F F ' J H V S F
enhanced from `20 million to `50 million; the annual
guarantee fees reduced; and threshold limit for waiver
P G M F H B M B D U J P O X B T J O D S F B T F E ø
Prime Minister’s Employment Generation Programme
1 . & ( 1 ø J T Q S P W J E J O H F N Q M P Z N F O U P Q Q P S U V O J U J F T
through establishment of micro-enterprises in the
O P O G B S N T F D U P S C Z Q S P W J E J O H . B S H J O . P O F Z T V C T J E Z
U P C F O F m D J B S J F T B W B J M J O H M P B O G S P N C B O L T G P S T F U U J O H V Q
O F X F O U F S Q S J T F T ø * U B J N T U P Q S P W J E F F N Q M P Z N F O U
P Q Q P S U V O J U J F T U P U S B E J U J P O B M B S U J T B O T S V S B M B O E V S C B O
V O F N Q M P Z F E Z P V U I B U U I F J S E P P S T U F Q 4 J O D F J O D F Q U J P O
P G U I F T D I F N F G S P N ' : N P S F U I B O
micro enterprises have been assisted across the
country, providing estimated employment to 8 million
persons.
* O P S E F S U P G B D J M J U B U F . 4 . & T O B U J P O B M B O E H M P C B M S F B D I
U I F . 4 . & $ I B N Q J P O T 4 D I F N F J T Q M B Z J O H B D S V D J B M
role in selecting clusters and enterprises and
modernising their processes, reducing wastage and
T I B S Q F O J O H C V T J O F T T D P N Q F U J U J W F O F T T 5 I F 4 D I F N F
P G G F S T . 4 . & T D F S U J m D B U J P O T B U U I S F F M F W F M T # S P O [ F
4 J M W F S B O E ( P M E B M P O H U I S F F E J N F O T J P O T
A . 4 . & 4 V T U B J O B C M F ; & % A . 4 . & $ P N Q F U J U J W F
- & " / B O E A . 4 . & * O O P W B U J W F * O D V C B U J P O % F T J H O
* 1 3 ' J O B O D J B M B T T J T U B O D F G P S N V M U J Q M F U F T U J O H B O E
D F S U J m D B U J P O T J T B M T P C F J O H J O U S P E V D F E U P Q S P W J E F
D P N Q S F I F O T J W F T V Q Q P S U U P . 4 . & T
- B V O D I F E X J U I U I F W J T J P O P G ý ' V O E J O H U I F 6 O G V O E F E ý
1 S B E I B O . B O U S J . V E S B : P K B O B 1 . . : F Y U F O E T
collateral-free loans to small enterprises that face
T J H O J m D B O U D I B M M F O H F T J O B D D F T T J O H G P S N B M J O T U J U V U J P O B M
D S F E J U 4 J O D F U S J M M J P O X P S U I P G . 6 % 3 "
loans have been sanctioned to marginalised
D P N N V O J U J F T J O D M V E J O H 4 D I F E V M F E $ B T U F T 4 D I F E V M F E
5 S J C F T B O E ø 0 # $ T
/ B U J P O B M 4 $ 4 5 ) V C J T Q S P N P U J O H F O U S F Q S F O F V S T I J Q B N P O H T U U I F 4 D I F E V M F E $ B T U F T B O E 4 D I F E V M F E 5 S J C F T 5 I J T I B T Q P T J U J W F M Z J N Q B D U F E U B S H F U C F O F m D J B S J F T C Z Q S P W J E J O H Q S P G F T T J P O B M T V Q Q P S U J O V Q H S B E J O H U I F J S T L J M M T G B D J M J U B U J O H N B S L F U M J O L B H F T B O E I P M E J O H T V Q Q P S U X I J D I S F T V M U F E J O B G P M E J O D S F B T F J O Q V C M J D Q S P D V S F N F O U G S P N 4 $ 4 5 . 4 & T J O U F S N T P G W B M V F J F N J M M J P O J O U P C J M M J P O B Q Q S P Y J O B T
S F Q P S U F E P O U I F . 4 . & 4 B N C B O E I Q P S U B M
¨ « … x … Á X … z … I x ³ x 0 x … z J ³ ! R 0 ( È n 0 ( ! ³ Á 0 ³
z ( ³ ! R 0 ( È n 0 ( Á « X 0 ³
JÎ n ÎÖ s ( 0 ! 0 z Á á … « k z ( 0 ! … z … x X ! J « … á Á R
106
/ B U J P O B M * O U F M M F D U V B M 1 S P Q F S U Z " X B S F O F T T . J T T J P O
/ * 1 " . X B T M B V O D I F E J O % F D F N C F S U P J N Q B S U * 1
awareness and basic training in educational institutes
B D S P T T U I F D P V O U S Z B O E B T B D P O T F R V F O D F N P S F U I B O
2 million persons have been trained about IPRs so far.
" M T P * 1 B X B S E T I B W F C F F O D P O G F S S F E F W F S Z Z F B S U P
recognise and reward the top achievers and many
among them were also invited as special guests to
( P W F S O N F O U P G * O E J B J O U I F 3 F Q V C M J D % B Z $ F M F C S B U J P O
U P S F D P H O J T F U I F J S F G G P S U T " E F E J D B U F E
i 4 U B S U 6 Q T * O U F M M F D U V B M 1 S P Q F S U Z 1 S P U F D U J P O 4 * 1 1
4 D I F N F w X B T B M T P J O U S P E V D F E J O U P T V Q Q P S U
4 U B S U V Q T J O T F D V S J O H U I F J S * 1 B O E F O D P V S B H J O H
innovation and creativity among them. The scheme
I B T C F F O G B D J M J U B U J O H T U B S U V Q T J O m M J O H B O E Q S P D F T T J O H
P G U I F J S Q B U F O U E F T J H O P S U S B E F N B S L B Q Q M J D B U J P O
U I S P V H I U I F B T T J T U B O D F P G * 1 ' B D J M J U B U P S T X I P T F G F F J T
C P S O F C Z U I F 0 G m D F P G U I F $ P O U S P M M F S ( F O F S B M P G
1 B U F O U T % F T J H O T B O E 5 S B E F N B S L 4 J O D F U I F
implementation of the scheme there has been a
T J H O J m D B O U J O D S F B T F J O * 1 B Q Q M J D B U J P O T C Z T U B S U V Q T ø
Over the past few years the country has seen an
V O Q S F D F E F O U F E T V S H F J O G P S N B M . 4 . & S F H J T U S B U J P O T
U I S P V H I E J H J U B M Q M B U G P S N T M J L F U I F 6 E Z B N 1 P S U B M 4 F F
' J H V S F B O E 6 E Z B N " T T J T U 1 M B U G P S N N B S L J O H B
T J H O J m D B O U T I J G U U P X B S E T G P S N B M J T B U J P O B O E F B T F P G
doing business. This growth has been matched by a
T V C T U B O U J B M S J T F J O D S F E J U n P X 4 F F ' J H V S F U P U I F
T F D U P S S F n F D U J O H C P U I J N Q S P W F E B D D F T T U P m O B O D F
B O E J O D S F B T J O H J O T U J U V U J P O B M D P O m E F O D F J O . 4 . & T
4 J N V M U B O F P V T M Z * O E J B T T U B S U V Q M B O E T D B Q F I B T
V O E F S H P O F B S F N B S L B C M F U S B O T G P S N B U J P O X J U I
U I P V T B O E T P G W F O U V S F T C F J O H P G m D J B M M Z S F D P H O J T F E
V O E F S U I F 4 U B S U V Q * O E J B J O J U J B U J W F 4 F F ' J H V S F
underscoring the success of enabling policies,
entrepreneurial energy and a supportive innovation
ecosystem. Collectively, these trends highlight how
targeted reforms, digital infrastructure and grassroots
enterprise are driving inclusive economic
development, especially in non-metropolitan and
underserved regions.
Figure 31: Total number of patents issued
0
10000
20000
30000
40000
50000
60000
70000
80000
90000
100000
2015-16 2016-17 2017-18 2018-19 2019-20 2020-21 2021-22 2022-23 2023-24
Source: Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry
Chemical Pharmaceuticals
Polymer Science & Technology Computer/ Electronics
Communication Electrical
Physics Bio-Medical
Mechanical Other fields
Year
Number of patents issued
JÎ n ÎÖ s ( 0 ! 0 z Á á … « k z ( 0 ! … z … x X ! J « … á Á R
Figure 32: Number of MSME registered under the online
Udyam registration Portal(including Udyam Assist Platform)
0
5 Millions
10 Millions
15 Millions
20 Millions
25 Millions
30 Millions
35 Millions
40 Millions
45 Millions
2020-21
(01.07.2020
to 31.03.2021)
2021-22
(01.04.2021
to 31.03.2022)
2022-23
(01.04.2022
to 31.03.2023)
2023-24
(01.04.2023
to 31.03.2024)
Total
Number of MSME
0
5000
10000
15000
20000
25000
2015-16 2016-17 2017-18 2018-19 2019-20 2020-21 2021-22 2022-23
Figure 34: Number of start-ups recognized under Start-up India (in number)
0
5000
10000
15000
20000
25000
30000
35000
40000
2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023
Source: Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (8.3.3 & 8.3.4) and
Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry (8.3.5)
) L J X U H 2 X W V W D Q G L Q J & U H G L W W R 0 6 0 ( L Q i E L O O L R Q V
Billions
Number of start-ups recognized under Start-up India
Year
JÎ n ÎÖ s ( 0 ! 0 z Á á … « k z ( 0 ! … z … x X ! J « … á Á R
108
SUSTAINABLE TOURISM
* O E J B T U P V S J T N T F D U P S S J D I J O ø I F S J U B H F D V M U V S F B O E
E J W F S T J U Z J T B L F Z E S J W F S P G ø F D P O P N J D H S P X U I 5 I F
U P V S J T N T F D U P S D S F B U F E ø N J M M J P O K P C T J O U I F m O B O D J B M
Z F B S B O E J U T D P O U S J C V U J P O U P ( % 1 S F H B J O F E U I F
Q S F Q B O E F N J D M F W F M P G J O U I F T B N F U J N F Q F S J P E
66
3 F D P H O J T J O H J U T Q P U F O U J B M G P S ø F N Q M P Z N F O U M F E
development the Government has decided to allocate
S F T P V S D F T U P F O I B O D F ø J O G S B T U S V D U V S F T L J M M
E F W F M P Q N F O U B O E U S B W F M G B D J M J U B U J P O ø 1 S P H S B N N F T T V D I
B T ) V O B S 4 F 3 P [ H B S 5 B L & O U S F Q S F O F V S T I J Q
1 S P H S B N N F 4 L J M M 5 F T U J O H $ F S U J m D B U J P O B O E 5 P V S J T N
" X B S F O F T T 1 S P H S B N N F B S F C F J O H D P O E V D U F E U I S P V H I
the government and empanelled private institute
V O E F S U I F A $ B Q B D J U Z # V J M E J O H G P S 4 F S W J D F 1 S P W J E F S T
$ # 4 1 4 D I F N F U P U S B J O B O E V Q H S B E F Q S P G F T T J P O B M T U P
Q S P W J E F C F U U F S T F S W J D F T U B O E B S E T ' V S U I F S * O D S F E J C M F
* O E J B 5 P V S J T U ' B D J M J U B U P S $ F S U J m D B U J P O 1 S P H S B N N F I B T
created an online learning platform with the objective
of creating a pool of well-trained professional tourist
facilitators across the country to support tourists.
WAY FORWARD
* O E J B T Q S P H S F T T U P X B S E 4 V T U B J O B C M F % F W F M P Q N F O U
Goal 8 which focuses on promoting sustained,
inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full and
Q S P E V D U J W F F N Q M P Z N F O U B O E E F D F O U X P S L G P S B M M
S F n F D U T C P U I T J H O J m D B O U B E W B O D F N F O U T B O E Q F S T J T U F O U
D I B M M F O H F T 8 J U I U I F M B S H F T U Q P Q V M B U J P O P G Z P V O H
people globally and a median age of 28, India has a
V O J R V F P Q Q P S U V O J U Z U P M F W F S B H F J U T E F N P H S B Q I J D
E J W J E F O E 8 J U I P G U I F Q P Q V M B U J P O V O E F S U I F B H F P G
35, India holds a demographic advantage; and is
G P S N V M B U J O H Q S P H S B N N F T U P F R V J Q Q F P Q M F X J U I
J O E V T U S Z S F M F W B O U T L J M M T O F F E F E J O B N P E F S O F D P O P N Z
" E E J U J P O B M M Z U I F Q S P Q P S U J P O P G T L J M M F E X P S L F S T I B T
J N Q S P W F E T J H O J m D B O U M Z G S P N U P P W F S U I F Q B T U
decade. Recognising the pivotal role of human capital
in driving economic growth and innovation, the
Government has actively implemented measures to
F O I B O D F T L J M M J O H B O E F N Q M P Z N F O U P Q Q P S U V O J U J F T 5 I F T F
efforts are supported by improved intellectual property
G S B N F X P S L T Q P M J D Z S F G P S N T B O E J O J U J B U J W F T F N Q P X F S J O H
T U B S U V Q T . 4 . & T B O E B D B E F N J D J O T U J U V U J P O T
India’s employment challenge lies not only in job
D S F B U J P O C V U B M T P J O F O I B O D J O H U I F P W F S B M M R V B M J U Z B O E
F N Q M P Z B C J M J U Z P G J U T X P S L G P S D F 5 I F & D P O P N J D 4 V S W F Z
F N Q I B T J T F T U I B U M B C P V S B O E U F D I O P M P H Z
must complement each other to ensure sustainable
H S P X U I ) J T U P S Z E F N P O T U S B U F T U I B U B V U P N B U J P O X I F O
carefully integrated with institutional support has
historically increased employment-to-population ratios.
* O U I J T D P O U F Y U U I F G V U V S F P G X P S L J O * O E J B S F W P M W F T
B S P V O E A " V H N F O U F E * O U F M M J H F O D F X I F S F I V N B O
capabilities are enhanced by machine integration
rather than replaced. Leveraging its young and
tech-savvy population India has the potential to create
B X P S L G P S D F U I B U V U J M J T F T " * U P B V H N F O U Q S P E V D U J W J U Z B O E
F G m D J F O D Z B D S P T T T F D U P S T ) P X F W F S C V J M E J O H F O B C M J O H
J O T U J U V U J P O T U P T V Q Q P S U U I J T U S B O T J U J P O S F R V J S F T N P C J M J T J O H
T V C T U B O U J B M J O U F M M F D U V B M B O E m O B O D J B M S F T P V S D F T X I J D I J T
a time-intensive process.
% F T Q J U F U I F T F B E W B O D F N F O U T X B H F E J T Q B S J U J F T Q F S T J T U
across sectors, particularly in the informal economy. To
address these vulnerabilities the focus continues to be
P O F O T V S J O H U I B U T L J M M J O H Q S P H S B N T H P C F Z P O E
D F S U J m D B U J P O T B O E G P D V T P O F R V J Q Q J O H J O E J W J E V B M T X J U I
practical expertise tailored to dynamic industry
demands and self-employment opportunities.
' F N B M F F N Q M P Z N F O U B O E X P N F O T D P O U S J C V U J P O U P U I F
X P S L G P S D F X J M M C F D S J U J D B M ' F N B M F X P S L G P S D F
participation has seen a positive trend over the past six
years with increased economic engagement and
declining unemployment rates among women. The
8 P S L F S 1 P Q V M B U J P O 3 B U J P 8 1 3 G P S X P N F O B H F E
Z F B S T B O E B C P W F S P T F G S P N J O U P
J O X I J M F U I F J S - B C P S ' P S D F 1 B S U J D J Q B U J P O 3 B U F
- ' 1 3 J O D S F B T F E G S P N U P ' F N B M F
V O F N Q M P Z N F O U E S P Q Q F E T J H O J m D B O U M Z G S P N U P
S F n F D U J O H H S F B U F S J O D M V T J P O J O F D P O P N J D
B D U J W J U J F T & O T V S J O H G V S U I F S F R V J U B C M F Q B S U J D J Q B U J P O J O U I F
G V U V S F X P S L G P S D F C Z C P U I X P N F O B O E N F O X J M M C F
D S J U J D B M " T * O E J B B E W B O D F T J O " * B O E E J H J U B M
transformation, the Government is focusing on
leveraging women’s participation in digital employment
platforms, enhancing women’s digital literacy and
F Y Q B O E J O H " * E S J W F O T L J M M J O H Q S P H S B N N F T G P S X P N F O
& O T V S J O H T V T U B J O B C M F X P S L G P S D F Q B S U J D J Q B U J P O G P S
X P N F O B M T P S F R V J S F T B E E S F T T J O H D I B M M F O H F T T V D I B T
X B H F E J T Q B S J U J F T B O E B D D F T T J O F R V B M J U J F T F G G F D U J W F M Z # Z
O V S U V S J O H B E Z O B N J D X P S L G P S D F F R V J Q Q F E X J U I
F N Q M P Z B C M F T L J M M T U I S P V H I U B S H F U F E J O U F S W F O U J P O T * O E J B
can harness its demographic dividend to drive
inclusive economic growth while preparing for the
evolving demands of a globalised economy powered
by technology integration.
JÎ n ÎÖ s ( 0 ! 0 z Á á … « k z ( 0 ! … z … x X ! J « … á Á R
09
GOAL
Industry,
Innovation
and
Infrastructure
SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure)
encompasses essential elements for economic
growth and sustainable development. It focuses on
building quality, reliable, sustainable and resilient
infrastructure that supports economic development
and human well-being. Additionally, it aims to promote
inclusive and sustainable industrialisation and foster
innovation among various targets. Investment in
infrastructure sectors such as transport, irrigation,
energy and others is crucial to ensure the sustainable
development of many countries.
With a strong focus on enhancing industrial
capabilities, creating world-class infrastructure and
fostering innovation, India’s signature “Make in
India” initiative aims to position India as a key player
in the global economy. Supported by major
programmes like Production Linked Incentive (PLI)
Schemes, PM Gati Shakti, the National Logistics
Policy and comprehensive tax reforms like the
Goods and Services Tax (GST), "Make in India"
continues to drive economic growth, job creation
and global competitiveness.
In India, the enhanced infrastructure and new
initiatives such as the Dedicated Freight Corridor and
various Industrial Corridors have played a pivotal
role in fostering sustainable industrialisation.
Additionally, efforts directed towards innovation have
Q S P Q F M M F E T J H O J m D B O U Q S P H S F T T J O U I F D P V O U S Z T
ranking on the Global Innovation Index from 48
th
in
2020 to 39
th
in 2024.
67
The Government has made considerable strides in
creating an enabling environment for startups through
landmark reforms aimed at improving the Ease of
Doing Business. Over 40,000 compliances have been
T J N Q M J m F E P S S F N P W F E B O E O V N F S P V T M B X T I B W F C F F O
decriminalised to allow businesses to operate more
freely and fairly. These measures are complemented
by the Fund of Funds for Startups (FFS) which
S F T F S W F T B T J H O J m D B O U Q P S U J P O P G J U T S F T P V S D F T G P S 4 F F E
funding for small startups and supports deep-tech
innovation with approval of initiatives, like the
government's Second Fund of Funds for Startups. By
mobilising patient capital the Government is seeking
to foster indigenous technology solutions that
address national priorities and position India as a
global innovation leader.
PROMOTING
MANUFACTURING AND
INDUSTRY
4 J H O J m D B O U Q S P H S F T T I B T C F F O N B E F J O
manufacturing, investments and job creation,
increasing the share of real manufacturing value
added per capita. As seen in Figure 35,
manufacturing, while steadily recovering, remains
slightly below its pre-pandemic trajectory. These
include improvements in ease of doing business,
E S J W F O C Z E J H J U J T B U J P O B O E Q S P D F E V S B M T J N Q M J m D B U J P O T
and India's rise as the world's second-largest mobile
phone manufacturer. These successes can be
credited to zero tolerance for corruption and targeted
sectoral efforts for attracting both domestic and
international investments. Looking ahead, further
growth in the manufacturing sector is expected which
will create millions of jobs and expand manufacturing
contribution to the economy.
J … n Î× r INDUSTRY, INNOVATION AND INFRASTRUCTURE
111
India’s manufacturing sector has gained momentum
U I S P V H I n B H T I J Q Q S P H S B N N F T M J L F . B L F J O * O E J B B O E
the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme,
targeting sectors such as electronics, textiles,
automobiles and pharmaceuticals. Today, ‘Make in
India’ initiative is transforming India into a global hub
for design and manufacturing. Its core objectives
were to facilitate investment, encourage innovation
and develop world-class infrastructure. The
initiative’s focus on developing a robust
manufacturing sector promises to elevate India's
economic trajectory and generate employment
opportunities for its vast young workforce.
Now with the "Make in India 2.0" phase encompassing
27 sectors, the programme continues to drive forward
X J U I T J H O J m D B O U B D I J F W F N F O U T B O E S F O F X F E W J H P V S
reinforcing India's position as a major player in the
global manufacturing landscape.
Keeping in view India's vision of becoming
'Atmanirbhar', Production Linked Incentive (PLI)
Schemes for 14 key sectors are under implementation
to enhance India's manufacturing capabilities and
exports. By targeting industries like electronics,
textiles, pharmaceuticals and automobiles, the
J O J U J B U J W F P G G F S T m O B O D J B M J O D F O U J W F T U J F E E J S F D U M Z U P
measurable outcomes such as higher production and
incremental sales. Actual investment of around US$
18.72 billion has been reported till November 2024.
These investments have already led to a remarkable
boost in production and sales, amounting to around
US$ 162.84 billion, while directly and indirectly
generating employment of over 1.15 million jobs.
68
ENHANCING
INFRASTRUCTURE
India's infrastructure development has advanced
T J H O J m D B O U M Z F T Q F D J B M M Z J O U F S N T P G J N Q S P W J O H
transportation connectivity. Rural connectivity
increased from 47.38% in 2017–18 to 99.70% in
2023–24 as a result of programmes like the Pradhan
Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY), which has linked
almost all targeted habitations with all-weather roads.
The PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan has been
implemented at Centre, State and district level to
assess last-mile connectivity gaps and ensure
seamless movement of people and goods. It is a
transformative approach for planning multimodal
infrastructure connectivity to economic nodes,
thereby bringing logistics efficiency. Till date, 44
Ministries (8 Infrastructure, 16 Social, 15 Economic,
5 other) have been boarded and 1652 data layers
14.50
15.00
15.50
16.00
16.50
17.00
17.50
0
2
4
6
8
10
12
14
16
18
20
MVA/population at constant (2011-12) prices (` Billions per million inhabitants)
MVA as proportion of GDP at constant price (rhs)
2015-16 2016-17 2017-18 2018-19 2019-20 2020-21 2021-22 2022-23 2023-24
Figure 35: Manufacturing Value Added (MVA) as a
proportion of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and per capita
Source: National Accounts Division, NSO, MoSPI
Year
Billions per million inhabitants
MVA as share (%) of GDP
J … n Î× r INDUSTRY, INNOVATION AND INFRASTRUCTURE
112
This programme encourages development of infrastructure for the leather and footwear sector, addresses
H Q Y L U R Q P H Q W D O F R Q F H U Q V V S H F L À F W R W K H I R R W Z H D U D Q G O H D W K H U V H F W R U I D F L O L W D W H V D G G L W L R Q D O L Q Y H V W P H Q W V
employment generation and increase in production. Till date 546 applications have been approved under
Integrated Development of Leather Sector Scheme (IDLS) assistance of Rs 370.38 Crore. 4 projects under
Sustainable Technology Environment Protection (STEP) sub-scheme are approved for setting up of
& R P P R Q ( I Á X H Q W 7 U H D W P H Q W 3 O D Q V & ( 7 3 7 K H V F K H P H S U R Y L G H V H P S O R \ P H Q W W R P L O O L R Q S H R S O H R X W
of which 40% are women and is also helpful in strengthening the Micro and Small units.
70
INDIAN FOOTWEAR AND LEATHER
DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME
(718 Ministry data layers and 934 State data layers)
have been uploaded on the GIS-data based portal
69
.
The initiative has helped in addressing
implementation challenges and environmental issues
at the planning stage. Gaps in first and last mile
connectivity are being identified along with planning
of projects for taking up by the relevant authorities.
The social sector Ministries that have been boarded
on are planning their projects such as schools,
health-care centres, anganwadi etc., on the initiative’s
portal, which is benefitting the vulnerable population
of the country. And based on PM Gati Shakti area
development approach principles the District Master
Plan (DMP) Portal has been launched for 27
aspirational districts.
Complementing this initiative, schemes such as the
Bharatmala Pariyojana, Sagarmala Programme, Ude
Desh ka Aam Nagrik (UDAN) scheme and the
development of Dedicated Freight Corridors are
transforming national highways, ports, airports and
rail freight corridors into modern and interconnected
networks.
The Government is also promoting Industrial
Infrastructure Parks through schemes like the
. P E J m F E * O E V T U S J B M * O G S B T U S V D U V S F 6 Q H S B E B U J P O
Scheme (MIIUS) and PM Mega Integrated Textile
Region and Apparel (PM MITRA) parks to attract
private investment, ensure plug-and-play
infrastructure and streamline regulatory approvals
through the Single Window Clearance Systems. In the
healthcare and life sciences sector the Promotion of
Medical Device Parks Scheme supports the creation
of specialised parks with common testing facilities,
regulatory assistance and R&D infrastructure. These
parks are strategically located near economic hubs
and aligned with logistics frameworks under the
National Logistics Policy, ensuring supply chain
F G m D J F O D Z B O E D P T U D P N Q F U J U J W F O F T T
Recognising India’s vulnerability to climate change
the Government is increasingly prioritising
sustainable and climate-resilient infrastructure. The
National Infrastructure Pipeline (NIP) places a
stronger emphasis on green infrastructure, such as
flood-resilient transportation systems, energy-efficient
buildings and renewable energy grids. Projects are
being assessed through a "green lens" to align with
India’s net-zero emissions target by 2070 and its
commitments under the Paris Agreement.
J … n Î× r INDUSTRY, INNOVATION AND INFRASTRUCTURE
113
STRENGTHENING THE
³ Á « Ás È ¨ 0 ! … ³ ç ³ Á 0 x Á …
DRIVE INNOVATION
To drive sustainable economic growth and generate
large scale employment opportunities, in 2016, India
started Startup India, an initiative intended to build a
strong ecosystem for nurturing innovation and
startups in the country. Its Action Plan is based on
U I S F F Q J M M B S T 4 J N Q M J m D B U J P O B O E ) B O E I P M E J O H ' V O E J O H
4 V Q Q P S U B O E * O D F O U J W F T B O E * O E V T U S Z " D B E F N J B
Partnership and Incubation. By the end of 2024,
T U B S U V Q D F S U J m D B U F T I B E C F F O J T T V F E X I J D I
were reported to create over 1.728 million jobs. The
number of States with dedicated start-up policies
increased from 4 in 2016 to 31 State/UTs policies in
2024
71
.
X z ( X r ³ Á « Á È ¨ R È
3rd largest start-up unicorn nation in the world with 118 unicorns that have a total valuation of over USD 354 Billion. R I W K H Q X P E H U R I V W D U W X S F H U W L À F D W H V K D Y H D W O H D V W Z R P D Q ' L U H F W R U
R I W K H Q X P E H U R I V W D U W X S F H U W L À F D W H V L V V X H G L Q Q R Q P H W U R F L W L H V Startups are spread across 56 Industries and top 5 Industries are IT services, Healthcare and Lifesciences, Education, Agriculture and Construction.
A major success of the Startup India initiative has been funding support granted to startups at every stage of their startup journey. Startup India Seed Fund 4 D I F N F 4 * 4 ' 4 I B T C F F O D S F B U F E U P Q S P W J E F m O B O D J B M assistance to startups for proof of concept, prototype development, product trials, market entry and commercialisation. This support enables startups to graduate to a level where they can raise investments from angel investors or venture capitalists or secure M P B O T G S P N D P N N F S D J B M C B O L T P S m O B O D J B M J O T U J U V U J P O T A Fund of Funds for Startups (FFS) has been formed to increase capital availability as well as to catalyse private investments and thereby accelerate the growth of the Indian startup ecosystem. Support has been created to provide guarantees through schemes like the Credit Guarantee Scheme for Startups (CGSS) which aims to ease access to early-stage debt requirements for startups. The objective of CGSS J T U P Q S P W J E F H V B S B O U F F T V Q U P B T Q F D J m F E M J N J U B H B J O T U credit instruments extended by Member Institutions G P S T U B S U V Q m O B O D J O H
To encourage entrepreneurs the National Startup
Awards are being conferred to selected startups that
have demonstrated exceptional capabilities and have
built innovative, scalable and impactful business
solutions. The fourth and the most recent edition for
the National Startup Awards launched in 2023
received applications from startups across 36
States/UTs, for 19 categories. 21 winners (20 unique
startups) were selected and each of the winning
startups were awarded a prize money of 10 million.
J … n Î× r INDUSTRY, INNOVATION AND INFRASTRUCTURE
114
7 K H % K D U D W 6 W D U W X S . Q R Z O H G J H $ F F H V V 5 H J L V W U \ % + $ 6 . $ 5 L Q L W L D W L Y H O D X Q F K H G L Q X Q G H U W K H 6 W D U W X S
India programme, is a platform to centralise, streamline and enhance collaboration among key stakeholders
within the entrepreneurial ecosystem, including startups, investors, mentors, service providers and
government bodies. By serving as a centralised registry, BHASKAR enables seamless access to a wide
array of resources, tools and knowledge that helps fuel the entrepreneurial journey from ideation to
execution and enable collaboration for all ecosystem stakeholders.
R ³ k «J « 0 à … n È Á X … z « ç ¨ n Á I … « x I … «
INDIA'S STARTUP ECOSYSTEM
While building on the accomplishments of Atal
Innovation Mission 1.0, such as Atal Tinkering Labs
(ATL) and Atal Incubation Centres (AIC), Atal
* O O P W B U J P O . J T T J P O I B T C F F O T J H O J m D B O U J O Q J M P U J O H
O F X J O J U J B U J W F T E F T J H O F E U P m M M H B Q T J O U I F F D P T Z T U F N
and scaling successes. It aims to strengthen India’s
innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystem by
supporting more innovators and entrepreneurs,
helping more startups succeed and by encouraging
entrepreneurs to create better jobs, products and
services. The establishment of the Anusandhan
National Research Foundation (ANRF) in 2023 has
marked a pivotal moment in the country’s efforts to
promote innovation with initiatives like the Prime
Minister's Early Career Research Grant and the
EV-Mission programme promoting electric vehicle
adoption.
WAY FORWARD
India's progress toward SDG 9, which focuses on
promoting inclusive and sustainable industrialisation,
building resilient infrastructure and fostering
J O O P W B U J P O S F n F D U T B D P N C J O B U J P O P G T J H O J m D B O U
advancements and ongoing challenges.
. B O V G B D U V S J O H F Y Q P S U T I B W F T M P X F E T J H O J m D B O U M Z E V F
to weak demand from destination countries and
aggressive trade policies in major economies.
Additionally, while above-average monsoon activity
has replenished reservoirs and supported agriculture,
it has also disrupted sectors like mining, construction
and manufacturing.
Infrastructure gaps remain a critical issue but the
T J H O J m D B O U D P O U J O V F E J O W F T U N F O U T J O F Y Q B O E J O H S P B E
networks, upgrading airports and advancing metro
Q S P K F D U T S F n F D U B D P N Q S F I F O T J W F T U S B U F H Z U P F O I B O D F
connectivity and mobility.
The government is working towards aligning India’s
regulatory framework with global business standards,
Q S P N P U J O H J O W F T U P S D P O m E F O D F G B D J M J U B U J O H T N P P U I F S
business operations, and enabling a greater ease of
doing business environment in the country. The Jan
Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Act, 2023
decriminalises minor offences and eliminates 183
criminal provisions across various Acts.
India’s predominantly service-oriented economy
presents another challenge as much of its workforce
is engaged in low-value-added roles vulnerable to
automation. To address, this fostering innovation
through programmes like Startup India remains
crucial for driving inclusive economic growth and
creating a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem. The
focus on disruptive technologies through initiatives
like the FFS (Fund of Funds for Startups) underscores
the importance of integrating research and
development with market strategies to scale
prototypes and accelerate commercialisation.
Looking ahead, addressing issues such as limited
B D D F T T U P m O B O D F G P S T N B M M T D B M F J O E V T U S J F T
infrastructure bottlenecks and skill mismatches is
essential. Strengthening institutional frameworks to
T V Q Q P S U J O E V T U S J B M E J W F S T J m D B U J P O B O E J O O P W B U J P O J T
equally important. By leveraging its demographic
dividend and advancing technological capabilities,
India has the potential to overcome these challenges
and emerge as a global hub for sustainable
industrialisation and innovation. Through sustained
F G G P S U T J O Q P M J D Z S F G P S N m O B O D J B M T V Q Q P S U G P S T U B S U V Q T
and infrastructure development, India can ensure that
its progress toward SDG 9 contributes meaningfully to
broader economic growth and social equity goals.
Additionally, India may strive for high-quality and
climate-resilient infrastructure development,
encourage innovation with consistent funding
(particularly in deep-tech areas) and establish an
inclusive industrial base to fully realise the potential
of SDG 9.
J … n Î× r INDUSTRY, INNOVATION AND INFRASTRUCTURE
115
10
GOAL
Reduced
Inequalities
The goal calls for progressively reducing not only
income inequalities but also inequalities-of-outcome
by ensuring access to equal opportunities and
promoting social, economic and political inclusion of
all, irrespective of age, sex, disability, race, ethnicity,
origin, religion or economic or any other status
relevant within a society. It also aims at enhancing
representation and voice for developing countries in
decision making in international economic and
m O B O D J B M J O T U J U V U J P O T
In India, contrary to much of the rest of the world,
inequalities along many dimensions are narrowing,
such as between the relative share of labour and
capital in the country’s economy as well as the gap
between rural and urban consumption expenditure.
Government efforts have aimed at reducing inequality
primarily through the regulation and monitoring of
m O B O D J B M N B S L F U T B O E J O T U J U V U J P O T B T X F M M B T C Z
promoting development and investment in regions
where needed. Expenditures on vulnerable segments
of society have also yielded positive results. Many
T Q F D J m D J O J U J B U J W F T J O U S P E V D F E C Z U I F H P W F S O N F O U T F F L
to share the country’s prosperity more widely,
especially for groups that have been vulnerable and
faced obstacles in the past. These include the
Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana which has
S F W P M V U J P O J T F E m O B O D J B M J O D M V T J P O 1 S B E I B O . B O U S J
Kisan Samman Nidhi which provides income support
to farmers, as well as Pradhan Mantri Janjati Adivasi
Nyaya Maha Abhiyan and Pradhan Mantri Janjatiya
Vikas Mission which have targeted support to
vulnerable tribal communities to further their social
and economic empowerment.
RISING SHARE OF LABOUR
INCOME IN THE ECONOMY
AND NARROWING OF
« È « ns È « z J ¨ ³
While the share of labour in GDP globally continued to
E F D M J O F E V F U P U I F m O B O D J B M J T B U P O P G U I F H M P C B M
economy and rising inequality worldwide, in India the
reverse has been true as the growth in the labour
force has increasingly played a stronger role in the
economic growth of the nation (See Figure 36).
Figure 36: Labour share of GDP
Source: SDG Labour Market Indicators (ILOSDG)
46
48
50
52
54
56
58
60
2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024
Southern Asia World India
Percentage
Year
J … n ÏÎ r « 0 ( È ! 0 ( X z 0 ª È n X Á X 0 ³
117
At the same time, new household consumption
expenditure data has confirmed that the urban-rural
gap in consumption expenditure is narrowing. The
urban-rural gap in average Monthly Per Capita
Expenditure (MPCE) has declined to 71% in 2022-23
from 84% in 2011-12. It has further come down to 70%
in 2023-24, which confirms the sustained momentum
of consumption growth in rural areas. The Gini
coefficient has been declining in recent years. For
rural areas it declined to 0.237 in 2023-24 from 0.266
in 2022-23, and in urban areas it fell to 0.284 in
2023-24 from 0.314 in 2022-23.
72
INCREASED GOVERNMENT
³ ¨ 0 z ( X z J … z
VULNERABLE REGIONS
z ( ¨ … ¨ È n Á X … z ³
Budget expenditures on vulnerable regions and
vulnerable populations have also been increased.
Enhanced investment in infrastructure across the
Northeast, particularly in the sectors of health,
education, shelter, water and road access, will
significantly improve living conditions. Strengthening
access to essential services and livelihoods through
their inclusion in government welfare schemes, such
as the Public Distribution System (PDS), the National
Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM), the Jal Jeevan
Mission and the Integrated Child Development
Services (ICDS) will contribute to their
socio-economic well-being and integration.
Expanding these interventions will ensure a more
resilient and inclusive response.
The percentage of budget allocated for welfare of
Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes stands at a
combined 24 percent of the total budget allocated to
the Union Government schemes. This has sharpened
policy attention on reducing inequalities faced by
these marginalised and vulnerable groups in line with
SDG 10. Similarly, the Aspirational District
Programme and Aspirational Block Programmes have
sought to reduce inequalities in the most vulnerable
districts and blocks in the country from the rest of the
country as a whole.
ENSURING BENEFITS
REACH EVERYONE AND
TARGETING THE
VULNERABLE
The Government through the implementation of Direct
# F O F G J U 5 S B O T G F S % # 5 ø J O J U J B U J W F I B T F O B C M F E S F B M U J N F
and transparent fund transfers for over 1,206
schemes in FY 2024-25, processing transactions
worth 2.23 trillion. These schemes include Mahatma
Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee,
Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojna,
Pratyaksh Hanstantrit Labh, National Social
Assistance Programme, Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojna
Rural and PM-Surya-Ghar. Extensive integration with
more than 100 external systems and seamless
interfaces with major banks has enhanced efficiency
B O E B D D P V O U B C J M J U Z ø
Launched in 2023, the Pradhan Mantri Janjati Adivasi
Nyaya Maha Abhiyan (PMJANMAN) focuses on
uplifting Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups
(PVTGs). It aims to improve the quality of life for PVTG
communities through targeted support in areas such
as safe housing, clean drinking water, education,
health, road and telecom connectivity, electrification
and sustainable livelihoods. The Mission is aimed at
targeted development of 75 Particularly Vulnerable
Tribal Groups (PVTGs) residing in 18 States and 1 UT,
who were unreached by earlier schemes.
Pradhan Mantri Janjatiya Vikas Mission aims to foster
tribal entrepreneurship and advance the "Vocal for
Local by Tribal" initiative. It emphasises empowering
tribal communities to harness natural resources
effectively, including Minor Forest Products (MFPs)
and non-MFPs, by supporting businesses centred
around locally produced goods. Seeks to achieve
livelihood-driven tribal development across the
country by providing forward and backward linkages
by setting up Van Dhan Vikas Kendras / Van Dhan
Producer Enterprises.
A concerted effort is being made by the Government
of India and various stakeholders to create a more
inclusive and equitable society for persons with
disabilities. Initiatives such as Sugamya Bharat
Abhiyaan, the National Disability Information Helpline
service, employability skills courses, and platforms
that aggregate employment opportunities and
provide vocational training with guaranteed
J … n ÏÎ r « 0 ( È ! 0 ( X z 0 ª È n X Á X 0 ³
118
J … n ÏÎ r « 0 ( È ! 0 ( X z 0 ª È n X Á X 0 ³
placements play a crucial role in this regard. These
efforts are enhancing accessibility, promoting
information dissemination, fostering skill
development, creating employment opportunities,
and supporting infrastructure development, laying a
strong foundation for continued progress in
empowering and integrating persons with disabilities.
The subnational governments are also focused on
fostering inclusivity, for instance, Nagaland has
created the YouthNet Incubation Centre which is the
first incubation space in the Northeast dedicated to
Persons with Disabilities.
ENSURING SOCIAL
¨ « … Á 0 ! Á X … z I … « Á R 0
¨ … … « 0 ³ Á z ( x … ³ Á
VULNERABLE
As part of the government’s efforts to provide financial
assistance National Social Assistance Programme
/ 4 " 1 D P O U J O V F T U P ø Q S P W J E F T P D J B M T F D V S J U Z U P T F O J P S
citizens, widows, disabled persons and bereaved
families on death of primary breadwinners belonging
to Below Poverty Line (BPL) households in rural and
urban areas.
With an aim to cover people in the unorganised
sector, the Atal Pension Yojana is creating a universal
social security system for all Indians, especially the
poor, the underprivileged and the workers. It has
C F F O E F T J H O F E J O T V D I B X B Z U I B U J U Q S P W J E F T ø
4 B N Q V S O B 4 V S B L T I B , B W B D I ø D P N Q M F U F D P W F S B H F U P
not only the subscriber by providing a life-long
defined and guaranteed pension amount but also to
the spouse by providing the same pension amount
after the demise of the subscriber and then to the
family by returning the entire corpus (accumulated till
the age of 60 years) to the nominee after the death of
the subscriber and spouse. The programme has
seen a surge in enrolments, reaching 73.3 million by
January 2025, with more than 8.995 million new
enrolments in FY 2024-25.
73
The Government has launched an umbrella scheme
“SMILE - Support for Marginalized Individuals for
Livelihood and Enterprise” which includes two
sub-schemes - ‘Central Sector Scheme for
Comprehensive Rehabilitation for Welfare of
Transgender Persons’ and ‘Central Sector Scheme for
Comprehensive Rehabilitation of persons engaged in
the act of Begging’. This umbrella scheme covers
several comprehensive measures including welfare
measures for both transgender persons and persons
who are engaged in the act of begging with focus
extensively on rehabilitation, provision of medical
facilities, counselling, education, skill development,
economic linkages etc. with the support of State
Governments/UTs/Local Urban Bodies, Voluntary
Organizations, Community Based Organisations
(CBOs) and institutions and others. Currently, it is
B D U J W F J O ø D J U J F T B O E U P X O T J O D M V E J O H L F Z ø
pilgrimage, historical and tourist locations with plans
U P F Y Q B O E U P ø N P S F D J U J F T ø J O U I F O F Y U Q I B T F
119
STRENGTHENING
COMMUNITIES THROUGH
ACCESS TO FINANCIAL
SERVICES
Financial inclusion remains a key government priority,
striving to provide banking, credit and insurance
services to the unbanked and underserved. Through
initiatives like the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana the
Government is working to empower individuals,
secure financial futures and promote
entrepreneurship. The motto "From Jan Dhan to Jan
Suraksha," encapsulates the vision of financial
security and inclusive growth for all.
Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) ensures
comprehensive financial inclusion of all households in
the country by providing universal access to banking
facilities with at least one basic bank account to every
household, financial literacy and social security
cover. To provide accidental death and disability
coverage, the Government has implemented the
Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana (PMSBY), a
one-year personal accident insurance scheme,
renewable from year to year, that offers coverage for
death/disability due to an accident and is available to
people in the age group of 18 to 70 years having a
bank account who give their consent to join and
enable auto-debit.
In order to provide the rural poor with a platform for
mutual support, savings and credit access, the
Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Rural
Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM) is focusing on
developing community institutions like Self-Help
Groups (SHGs), Village Organisations (VOs) and
Cluster Level Federations (CLFs). These groups offer
collective resources to overcome poverty. It also
places women at the core of development by forming
SHGs and federating them into VOs and CLFs. It
fosters social capital by involving women in
decision-making, strengthening trust and cooperation
within rural communities. More than 0.6 million trained
Community Resource Persons (CRPs) are involved in
thematic areas such as livestock, agriculture and
G J O B O D J B M T F S W J D F T 6 O E F S U I F T B N F Q S P H S B N N F ø
Lakhpati Didi Initiative is empowering women to
become financially self-sufficient. The goal is to
create 30 million "Lakhpati Didis" (women earning
100,000 or more annually) by helping women to
scale up businesses and contribute to sustainable
development across rural India. So far, 11.5 million SHG
women have become Lakhpati Didis in the country.
( ( « 0 ³ ³ X z J X z 0 ª È n X Á X 0 ³
… I … ¨ ¨ … « Á È z X Á ç X z ³ ( J
¨ « … J « 0 ³ ³
Reducing inequality requires understanding and
addressing the barriers that hold back those left
furthest behind by progress and closing the gaps
between their achievements and those of society as a
whole. Individuals or households facing these
inequalities of opportunity often share a combination
of overlapping socio-economic or demographic
characteristics. For example, being both young and
living in a rural area can mean you are less likely to
have a bank account than either young people in
general or rural inhabitants in general.
In 2024, a study was conducted to understand the
inequalities in sexual and reproductive health and
rights (SRHR) and child health in Rajasthan, using an
equity lens that focuses on marginalised subsections
of the population.
74
To undertake a comprehensive
analysis the UNFPA drew classification trees (See
Figure 37) to show how the differences in access
among groups of pregnant women can vary
according to their socio-economic characteristics.
This method deconstructs intersectionality by
analysing the combined effects of various
socioeconomic factors, such as wealth quintile,
educational attainment, place of residence and caste
categories. By stratifying the population across these
dimensions the analysis highlights the most
disadvantaged groups, helping to pinpoint those who
are most marginalised in terms of access to services
and outcomes. The furthest behind subpopulation
that this tree shows are pregnant women in rural
areas who are poor, non-ST/non-SC and who have
received less than 5 years schooling. Among these
women, just 84.1% received any antenatal care,
compared with 94.2% for the state as a whole. This is
useful information that can help the targeting of last
mile delivery interventions towards the populations
most at risk.
J … n ÏÎ r « 0 ( È ! 0 ( X z 0 ª È n X Á X 0 ³
120
) L J X U H & O D V V L À F D W L R Q W U H H R I J U R X S V R I Z R P H Q L Q 5 D M D V W K D Q
Z K R U H F H L Y H G D Q \ W \ S H R I D Q W H Q D W D O F D U H G X U L Q J S U H J Q D Q F \
$ Q \ $ 1 &
94.2
Urban
96.2
5 L F K
97.1
Poor
91.7
5 , F K
94.2
Poor
92.9
ST
100.0
SC
95.6
General
96.2
ST
96.4
SC
91.1
General
91.0
\ H D U V
of schooling
100.0
\ H D U V
schooling
84.1
5 X U D O
93.6
Source: UNFPA based on NFHS-5
ESCAP’s Leave No One Behind (LNOB) methodology
of classification and regression tree (CART) analysis
takes a similar approach to identify the
socioeconomic characteristics that define groups of
the population who are “furthest behind” and “furthest
ahead” on various measures of SDG progress. The
CART analysis is entirely data-driven and lets the
partitioning of the data emerge from the underlying
variation within household survey data sets, such as
NFHS, PLFS, etc. CART uses a machine learning
algorithm to draw predictive or decision “trees”
through recursive binary splitting. The algorithm
calculates the differences in variance between all
possible subsets of the data that can be constructed
by stratifying the population across available
categorical variables. The stratifying variable which
produces the largest difference in variance between
subpopulations defines the first branch in the tree.
The algorithm then proceeds recursively to further
subdivide the divided populations by the next most
important source of variance, and so on, constructing
the complete tree based on the underlying variation in
the data.
J … n ÏÎ r « 0 ( È ! 0 ( X z 0 ª È n X Á X 0 ³
121
This methodology can be applied to any SDG
indicator calculated from a household survey dataset
to identify the combination of categorical variables
that define those who have been left furthest behind. It
represents in a tree structure the mutually exclusive
groups from the sample population with significantly
different levels of access to an opportunity or
prevalence of a certain barrier. For example, Figure
38 draws the CART tree showing significant
differences in prevalence of multidimensional poverty
among subpopulations defined by available
socio-economic and demographic variables available
from the 2019-21 NFHS data.
The root of the tree (14.96 percent, here rounded to 15
percent) shows the average prevalence of
multidimensional poverty in the population. The
orange “leaf” or “branch” of the tree shows that
households where the family head is under age 45
and is educated only to primary level form the group
within the population which is the “furthest behind” on
progress reducing multidimensional poverty. 36% of
this population is estimated to be multidimensionally
poor. By contrast the “furthest ahead” group –
depicted by the blue node – are households in urban
areas that have a household head educated at
secondary school level or higher. Just 2 among this
population are multidimensionally poor. The gap in
achievement among identifiable groups within the
population thus ranges from 2% to 36%, given the
available data and the average value of 14.96%.
Figure 39 summarizes the gaps in SDG achievement
that can be identified by CART analysis between
furthest behind and furthest ahead groups that
emerge from similar trees for other indicators. It
shows the range of values between the furthest
behind and furthest behind groups identified for each
SDG indicator that are calculated from the NFHS and
PLFS survey data and compares them with the
national averages.
) L J X U H & O D V V L À F D W L R Q D Q G 5 H J U H V V L R Q 7 U H H $ Q D O \ V L V I R U P X O W L G L P H Q V L R Q D O
S R Y H U W \ K H D G F R X Q W U D W L R R I G L I I H U H Q W J U R X S V L Q , Q G L D
0 X O W L G L P H Q V L R Q D O O \
S R R U
6 H F R Q G D U \ R U
W H U W L D U \ H G X
Urban residence
5 X U D O U H V L G H Q F H
/ R Z H U H G X
$ J H J U R X S
Household size
<6
Household size
<7
Household size
>=6
Household size
>=7
$ J H J U R X S
$ J H J U R X S X Q G H U
45
$ J H J U R X S
$ J H J U R X S
$ J H J U R X S X Q G H U
45
Source: ESCAP calculations based on NFHS-5
J … n ÏÎ r « 0 ( È ! 0 ( X z 0 ª È n X Á X 0 ³
122
Importantly, over the past decade of India’s SDG
progress, the gaps in progress between the furthest
behind and the national average have narrowed
across most indicators. This means that in general
the furthest behind groups haven’t been left behind in
progress. In fact, progress for those groups who were
furthest behind in 2015-16 has been faster than
average across a wide range of SDG indicators.
Figure 40 shows the gaps that have closed between
the furthest behind groups and the furthest ahead
compared with progress in the national average
between National Family Health Survey Round 4 and
Round 5.
Note: All results are weighted using respective weights. The results are validated against the published NFHS report online. The source of data
for employment indicators is PLFS 2023.
) L J X U H * D S V L Q 6 ' * S U R J U H V V E H W Z H H Q I X U W K H V W E H K L Q G D Q G I X U W K H V W
D K H D G J U R X S V L G H Q W L À H G E \ D J H S R Y H U W \ J H Q G H U U X U D O X U E D Q V W D W X V H D U O \ V
0 X O W L G L P H Q V L R Q D O O \
Poor
Stunting Wasting 2 Y H U Z H L J K W $ Q \ W \ S H
of VAW
8 Q H P S O R \ P H Q W < R X W K 1 ( ( 7
ZERO
HUNGER
2
ZERO
HUNGER
2
GENDER
EQUALITY
5
DECENT WORK
AND ECONOMIC
GROWTH
5
1.22 2.21 2.22 2.22 5.21 8.52 8.61
DECENT WORK AND ECONOMIC GROWTH
5
ZERO HUNGER
2
NO POVERTY
1
36
6 K D U H R I K R X V H K R O G V L Q G L Y L G X D O V
15
2
49
36
9
23
19
13
37
27
14
15
4.2
73
23.5
4.7
5
4
1.1
2
0
20
40
60
80
100
$ Y H U D J H U D W H
Furthest ahead Furthest behind
Source: ESCAP calculations based on NFHS Round 5 (2019-2021) and PLFS 2023.
J … n ÏÎ r « 0 ( È ! 0 ( X z 0 ª È n X Á X 0 ³
123
) L J X U H ) H Z H U S H R S O H K D Y H E H H Q O H I W E H K L Q G D V J D S V Q D U U R Z H G
$ * D S V L Q K R X V H K R O G L Q G L F D W R U V ²
Share of households (%)
100
90
80
70
60
50
40
30
20
10
0
2015 16
2019 21
Basic drinking water
2015 16
2019 21
Basic sanitation
2015 16
2019 21
Clean fuel
2015 16
2019 21
2015 16
2019 21
Electricity
Bank Account
Furthest Behind Average Furthest Ahead
Source and Note: ESCAP LNOB Platform based on NFHS (2015-2016) and NFHS (2019-2021). Note that the
circumstances that intersect in identifying the furthest behind and furthest ahead groups may change over time.
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
90
100
Furthest Behind Average Furthest Ahead
Source: ESCAP LNOB Platform based on NFHS (2015-2016) and NFHS (2019-2021). Note that the circumstances that intersect in identifying the furthest behind and furthest ahead groups may change over time.
% & K D Q J H L Q J D S V I R U L Q G L Y L G X D O L Q G L F D W R U V ²
2
0
1
5
-
1
6
2
0
1
9
-
2
1
Family planning Skilled birth
attendance
Early childhood
education
Literacy
(Men)
Literacy(Women) Secondary education Tertiary
education
Birth registration
2
0
1
5
-
1
6
2
0
1
9
-
2
1
2
0
1
5
-
1
6
2
0
1
9
-
2
1
2
0
1
5
-
1
6
2
0
1
9
-
2
1
2
0
1
5
-
1
6
2
0
1
9
-
2
1
2
0
1
5
-
1
6
2
0
1
9
-
2
1
2
0
1
5
-
1
6
2
0
1
9
-
2
1
2
0
1
5
-
1
6
2
0
1
9
-
2
1
J … n ÏÎ r « 0 ( È ! 0 ( X z 0 ª È n X Á X 0 ³
124
WAY FORWARD
In today’s globalised world income inequality is
increasingly shaped by economic dynamics and
market forces that often lie beyond the direct control
of any particular country. Despite these challenges
India’s recent experience demonstrates that national
policies can still play a transformative role in reducing
other forms of inequality, particularly those related to
consumption and access to essential services.
Through the effective design and implementation of
targeted interventions focused on the convergence of
initiatives and saturation of essential services through
programmes like ADP and ABP, India has made
significant progress in narrowing disparities, fostering
inclusion and ensuring that benefits continue to reach
individuals, particularly those from marginalised
communities.
By continuing to focus on improving the delivery of
programmes, increasing access to opportunities,
enabling more technological innovation, strengthening
governance, deepening investments in social
protection and addressing structural inequalities with
inclusive policies, India is equipping itself to sustain
and advance progress towards SDG 10.
J … n ÏÎ r « 0 ( È ! 0 ( X z 0 ª È n X Á X 0 ³
125
11
GOAL
Sustainable Cities
and Communities
SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) aims to
foster inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable cities
and human settlements. Sustainable cities and
communities are founded on the principles of social,
economic and environmental sustainability.
Urbanisation has led to the creation of new jobs and
opportunities, contributing to poverty reduction. The
sustainable development of cities plays a pivotal role
in national development, providing avenues for
economic and social prosperity. Urban areas can
address challenges of rapid growth by enhancing
resource utilisation, reducing pollution and poverty
and ensuring access to basic services, energy and
housing, while simultaneously lowering greenhouse
gas emissions. Rapid urbanisation has presented
numerous challenges to infrastructure such as
increased demand for resources like water, energy
and transportation.
The Government is implementing multiple initiatives to
support sustainable urbanisation. The National Smart
Cities Mission, an urban renewal and retrofitting
programme, aims to develop smart cities nationwide.
The Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban
Transformation (AMRUT) is dedicated to establishing
infrastructure capable of providing robust sewage
networks and water supply to facilitate urban
transformation.
Additionally, Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY)
was launched to ensure affordable housing for all.
Municipal solid waste management also remains a
major environmental issue in Indian cities and
therefore significant progress in urban waste
management also remains an important area of focus.
“
SMART CITIES
The Smart Cities Mission (SCM) aims to enhance the
quality of life in India's cities through smart,
sustainable solutions. Its goal is to create cities that
are economically vibrant, inclusive and environment
friendly. By focusing on key areas like infrastructure,
governance and social development, SCM seeks to
U S B O T G P S N V S C B O M J W J O H B D S P T T U I F D P V O U S Z ø 8 J U I
cities leading the initiative the mission is reshaping
urban landscapes across India. As of December
P G U I F Q S P K F D U T V O E F S U I F 4 N B S U $ J U J F T
Mission have been completed
75
, which demonstrates
the country’s commitment to creating smarter, more
liveable urban spaces for all.
6 O E F S U I F 4 N B S U $ J U J F T . J T T J P O F B D I P G U I F D J U J F T
has selected a defined area for targeted
interventions. These areas, chosen through citizen
participation, are being developed as replicable
models for other parts of the city. Each city also has
included pan-city technology-driven solutions. Under
SCM over 66 cities are managing solid waste with
increased technology use improving route
management, efficiency of collection and daily
N B O B H F N F O U 8 B U F S T V Q Q M Z T Z T U F N T B S F C F J O H
monitored, reducing non-revenue water and
M F B L B H F T 0 W F S L J M P N F U S F T P G T N B S U S P B E T I B W F
also been constructed or improved and 713
kilometres of cycle tracks have been developed.
76
In addition to the core initiatives the Smart Cities
Mission has introduced projects in response to
emerging challenges. For example, in the wake of the
$ 0 7 * % Q B O E F N J D D B N Q B J H O T M J L F
A $ Z D M F T $ I B O H F B O E A 4 U S F F U T 1 F P Q M F X F S F M B V O D I F E
to promote open spaces for active living. To ensure
inclusive access to public spaces, initiatives such as
the ‘Placemaking Marathons’ and ‘Nurturing
Neighbourhoods Challenge’ focused on vulnerable
groups were created. Other challenges like
A 5 S B O T Q P S U " M M B O E A & B U 4 N B S U $ J U J F T B J N U P T V Q Q P S U
public transport startups and improve food hygiene in
smart cities.
CITIIS, or City Investments to Innovate, Integrate and
Sustain, is a sub-component of the Smart Cities
Mission. It aims to enhance sustainability, inclusion
and liveability in cities across India through
innovation-driven urban infrastructure projects,
capacity building and knowledge dissemination.1
Government has approved the ‘City Investments to
* O O P W B U F * O U F H S B U F B O E 4 V T U B J O $ * 5 * * 4 J O B
Z F B S Q S P H S B N N F X J U I U I S F F D P N Q P O F O U T G J O B O D J B M
and technical support for up to 18 Smart Cities on
circular economy and waste management, climate
action support for all States/UTs and national-level
interventions for urban scale-up.
Hundreds of small cities have a key role in achieving the resolve of a developed India by 2047.
Our government is upgrading basic facilities in such urban centres to improve ease of living.”
+ R Q · E O H 3 U L P H 0 L Q L V W H U 6 K U L 1 D U H Q G U D 0 R G L-
J … n ÏÏ r ³ È ³ Á X z n 0 ! X Á X 0 ³ z ( ! … x x È z X Á X 0 ³
127
As part of the National Industrial Corridor Development Programme (NICDP) India is focusing on
development of futuristic industrial cities which can compete with the best manufacturing and investment
destinations in the world. The programme emphasises integrating industrial, urban and economic
E F W F M P Q N F O U U I S P V H I D S F B U J P O P G H S F F O G J F M E * O E V T U S J B M 4 N B S U $ J U J F T 5 I F T F D J U J F T B S F D I B S B D U F S J T F E C Z
• State of the art plug and play physical infrastructure (Multimodal connectivity, power supply, water
systems, etc.).
• Technology driven solutions for efficient urban management.
• A focus on environmental sustainability through smart waste management systems and promoting
green energy.
• Creation of employment opportunities and economic growth leading to overall socio-economic
development.
The programme emphasises efficient and inclusive planning through a comprehensive area development
approach, leveraging PM Gati Shakti's advanced data layers and analytical tools to identify optimal locations
and meet future demand-supply requirements for infrastructure, encompassing manufacturing as well as
socio-economic development. The project incorporates inclusive city planning principles to ensure equal
opportunities for workforce participation across all genders, fostering a diverse and equitable work
environment. The selection of manufacturing sectors has been carefully aligned with the regional context,
taking into account the availability of local raw materials and labour resources. This approach is designed to
maximise employment opportunities, particularly for marginalized groups residing in the surrounding areas,
thereby promoting socio-economic upliftment and ensuring community integration within the industrial
ecosystem.
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128
The Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban
5 S B O T G P S N B U J P O " . 3 6 5 X B T M B V O D I F E J O D J U J F T
J O " T V C T D I F N F P G " . 3 6 5 G P D V T F T P O
formulating Geographical Information System (GIS)
based master plans for AMRUT cities. This involves
geodatabase creation, GIS based master plan
G P S N V M B U J P O B O E D B Q B D J U Z C V J M E J O H B O E D P W F S T
cities across 35 States / UTs. Final Geo database has
C F F O D S F B U F E G P S D J U J F T % S B G U ( * 4 C B T F E N B T U F S
Q M B O T I B W F C F F O G P S N V M B U F E G P S D J U J F T B O E G J O B M
GIS based master plans have been approved in 223
cities.
77
È « z ¨ n z z X z J
4 J O D F U I F Q S P Q P S U J P O P G * O E J B O D J U J F T X J U I . B T U F S
1 M B O T I B T S J T F O G S P N P V U P G U P N P S F U I B O P V U P G
4 F F ' J H V S F 5 I F ( P W F S O N F O U Q S P W J E F T T V Q Q P S U U P
States / Union Territories for formulation of master
plans by issuing advisories and design standards,
providing schematic interventions and financial
B T T J T U B O D F F U D ø
) L J X U H 3 U R S R U W L R Q R I F L W L H V Z L W K 0 D V W H U S O D Q V L Q
Percentage of cities with Master Plans
Year
Source: Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs
0
20
30
2020 2022
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To deal with urban planning challenges related to
garbage, waste and sewage, the government
launched the Swachh Bharat Mission -Urban
4 # . 6 J O 4 X B D I I # I B S B U . J T T J P O 6 S C B O
Indian cities are also today processing much more of
U I F J S X B T U F 4 F F ' J H V S F E V F U P J O J U J B U J W F T M J L F
" . 3 6 5 " U B M . J T T J P O G P S 3 F K V W F O B U J P O B O E 6 S C B O
5 S B O T G P S N B U J P O " . 3 6 5 T D I F N F X B T M B V O D I F E
J O J O B M M 6 - # T D J U J F T 5 I F T F J O J U J B U J W F T B S F
enabling the cities to become 'self-reliant' and 'water
secure'. Providing universal coverage of sewerage
B O E T F Q U B H F N B O B H F N F O U J O " . 3 6 5 D J U J F T J T
P O F P G U I F N B K P S G P D V T B S F B T P G " . 3 6 5
Rejuvenation of water bodies, development of green
spaces and parks and Technology Sub-Mission to
leverage latest technologies in the field of water are
other components of the Mission. The Government is
prioritising storm water drainage systems to address
waterlogging challenges alongside continuing
efforts to enhance drinking water availability and
sewerage systems.
The schemes are actively monitored through review at
various levels of the information submitted by
States/Union Territories on progress and through field
visits. Additionally, the ‘Swachh Survekshan’ survey is
conducted annually under SBM-U through third-party
assessment to evaluate the cleanliness status and
progress in the implementation of SBM-U in cities.
78
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* O E J B D V S S F O U M Z I B T B C P V U L N P G N F U S P Q P M J U B O S B J M
network including regional rapid transit system
operational in 23 cities across the country. A number
of advancements and technological innovations like
the European Train Control System, Platform Screen
Door and Indigenous Automatic Train Supervision
systems have taken place. Installation of solar panels
and adopting regenerative braking systems has
4 # . 6 X B T M B V O D I F E J O G P S B Q F S J P E P G G J W F
Z F B S T V Q U P X J U I B W J T J P O P G B D I J F W J O H T B G F
sanitation and scientific processing of municipal solid
waste in all cities.
0
0
20
30
0
0
0
0
0
0
20 20 20 20 2020 202 2022 2023 202
) L J X U H 3 H U F H Q W D J H R I Z D V W H S U R F H V V H G
Percentage of waste processed
Source: Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs
Year
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considerably reduced power consumption making
metro projects more sustainable and environment
G S J F O E M Z L N P G U I F # V T 3 B Q J E 5 S B O T J U 4 Z T U F N
network is operational in the country and expansion to
L N J O D J U J F T J T B M S F B E Z T B O D U J P O F E
¨ « … à X ( X z J I I … « ( n 0
R … È ³ X z J
The Government has been implementing Pradhan
. B O U S J " X B T : P K B O B o 6 S C B O 1 . " : 6 T J O D F U P
provide pucca houses with basic amenities to all
eligible urban beneficiaries. The scheme has been
J N Q M F N F O U F E J O $ J U J F T 6 S C B O - P D B M # P E J F T
6 - # T J O D M V E J O H B M M . F U S P Q P M J U B O $ J U J F T B D S P T T U I F
country. Further, based on the learning from the
F Y Q F S J F O D F T P G Z F B S T J N Q M F N F O U B U J P O P G 1 . " : 6
the Central Government has revamped the scheme
B O E M B V O D I F E 1 . " : 6 A ) P V T J O H G P S " M M . J T T J P O
X J U I F G G F D U G S P N 4 F Q U F N C F S G P S J N Q M F N F O U B U J P O J O
urban areas across the country to construct, purchase
B O E S F O U B I P V T F C Z N J M M J P O B E E J U J P O B M F M J H J C M F
beneficiaries at affordable cost through four verticals
J F # F O F G J D J B S Z - F E $ P O T U S V D U J P O # - $ " G G P S E B C M F
) P V T J O H J O 1 B S U O F S T I J Q " ) 1 " G G P S E B C M F 3 F O U B M
) P V T J O H " 3 ) B O E * O U F S F T U 4 V C T J E Z 4 D I F N F * 4 4
In rural India, Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana Gramin is
improving access to affordable housing and playing a
key role in transforming the rural housing landscape,
reducing poverty, improving living standards and
fostering social and economic development.
! ! 0 ³ ³ Á … J « 0 0 z ³ ¨ ! 0 ³
* O U I F ( P W F S O N F O U M B V O D I F E U I F S F W J T F E / B H B S
Van Yojana (NVY) in an effort to enhance the urban
greenery for improving the quality of life and
increasing social cohesion in cities. These Nagar
Vans are not only vital environmental resources but
also provide a space for recreation, environment
education, biodiversity conservation and a tool for
adaptation towards climate change making the cities
climate resilient. The scheme provides financial
assistance for the creation and maintenance of these
urban forests, encouraging the involvement of
citizens, students and other stakeholders in the
creation and management of these green spaces.
/ B H B S 7 B O B S F B T S B O H F G S P N B N J O J N V N P G I B U P
ha. Emphasis is on biodiversity, Planting fruit-bearing,
medicinal and native species to attract wildlife and
promote ecological balance. Community participation
is central with opportunities for public engagement
through tree planting, educational programmes and
sustainable management. Each Nagar Van must have
at least two-thirds of its area under tree cover and
have components like Biodiversity Parks, Smriti Vans,
# V U U F S G M Z $ P O T F S W B U P S J F T B O E ) F S C B M ( B S E F O T 5 I F
/ B H B S 7 B O : P K B O B B J N T U P E F W F M P Q / B H B S 7 B O T
C Z U I F Z F B S
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131
á ç I … « á « (
India is urbanising rapidly with projections indicating
U I B U C Z N P S F U I B O Q F S D F O U P G U I F Q P Q V M B U J P O
will live in urban areas. Urban development has
become a key government priority, focusing on
modernising cities, improving infrastructure, and
enhancing the quality of urban living. The
establishment of a 1 trillion Urban Challenge Fund in
81
demonstrates the government’s strong
commitment to sustainable and inclusive urban
growth. This fund supports initiatives such as Cities as
( S P X U I ) V C T $ S F B U J W F 3 F E F W F M P Q N F O U P G $ J U J F T B O E
8 B U F S B O E 4 B O J U B U J P O Q S P K F D U T S F G M F D U J O H B
comprehensive approach to urban transformation.
) P X F W F S U I F J O D S F B T J O H G S F R V F O D Z P G F Y U S F N F
weather events, including cyclones, floods, heat
waves, water scarcity and drought-like conditions,
has adversely impacted many cities causing loss of
life and affecting economic growth. In response, the
Climate Smart Cities Assessment Framework
$ 4 $ " ' M B V O D I F E J O Q S P W J E F T D J U J F T X J U I B
clear roadmap to combat climate change through
planning and investment. This framework with its 28
progressive indicators across five thematic areas
helps cities benchmark their development, identify
gaps and prioritise climate-relevant actions.
Strengthening climate-sensitive urban development is
crucial as cities are at the forefront of addressing both
urbanisation and climate change challenges.
Effective urban planning requires a deep
understanding of each city’s economic base,
constraints and competitive advantages. The
Government has recognised that focusing solely on
tier-1 cities is insufficient. Programmes such as
" . 3 6 5 1 S B E I B O . B O U S J " X B T : P K B O B
(PMAY)-Urban, Swachh Bharat Mission-Urban and
the Smart Cities Mission have demonstrated the
importance of tailoring measures to the specific
needs of cities across different tiers. This approach
ensures that the benefits of urbanisation reach every
citizen, fostering inclusive growth.
The Government is also fostering a culture of
innovation in urban development by reimagining
cities as living labs that harness data and technology.
This innovative mindset is essential for addressing the
complex challenges of urbanisation and for creating
sustainable and resilient cities.
Moving forward, India will continue to strengthen its
urban development strategies by integrating climate
resilience, innovation and inclusivity. Sustained efforts
in planning, investment and governance will be
critical to balancing rapid urban growth with
sustainable infrastructure development and inclusive
policies. By doing so India aims to build cities that are
not only engines of economic growth but also models
of sustainability and inclusiveness, ensuring a better
quality of life for all residents.
J … n ÏÏ r ³ È ³ Á X z n 0 ! X Á X 0 ³ z ( ! … x x È z X Á X 0 ³
132
12
GOAL
Responsible
Consumption and
Production
SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production)
aims to ensure sustainable consumption and
production patterns. This approach to economic
development seeks to minimise the negative impact
of human activities on the environment while
promoting social equity and economic prosperity.
According to the Oslo Symposium of 1994,
sustainable consumption and production is defined
as “the use of services and related products which
respond to basic needs and bring a better quality of
life, while minimising the use of natural resources and
toxic materials, as well as the emission of waste and
pollutants over the life cycle of the service or product,
so as not to jeopardise the needs of future
generations.” Goal 12 emphasises the efficient use of
natural resources, energy efficiency and sustainable
infrastructure.
India is a part of international initiatives and
agreements on sustainable consumption and
production including the 10 Years Framework of
Programmes on sustainable consumption and
production (10YFP) process. Government has given
special consideration to renewable energy, organic
agriculture, biofertilizers, reduced emission etc. in
order to ensure responsible consumption and
production. India has also pioneered international
approaches to sustainable consumption and
production through Mission LiFE, which is an
India-led global mass movement to nudge
individual and community action to protect and
preserve the environment.
LIFESTYLES FOR
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Mission LiFE is a global initiative launched by India in
October, 2022 aimed at fostering sustainable
lifestyles through mindful and deliberate consumption
to protect the environment. Following its introduction
at COP-26 in Glasgow in 2021, Mission LiFE has also
been recognised by the G20 in 2023 and has inspired
the Sustainable Lifestyles resolution agreed by the
UN Environmental Assembly in 2024.
Mission LiFE encourages individuals and
communities to adopt eco-friendly behaviours,
reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving
health and well-being at the same time. India is taking
examples from its rich culture and from modern
scientific solutions to strengthen collective awareness
and action towards environmentally-friendly
behaviour and choices.
The initiative focuses on seven core themes: saving
water, conserving energy, reducing waste, managing
e-waste, eliminating single-use plastics, promoting
sustainable food systems, and adopting healthy
lifestyles. Mission LiFE has been included, as a
non-quantifiable indicators under Nationally
Determined Contributions (NDCs).
LiFE actions are easy to practice by individuals and
promote economic activity in the foreseeable future.
Mission LiFE aims to build a mass movement of
people for adopting sustainable lifestyles based on
mindful utilisation, minimising waste and making
green choices, for themselves, their families and their
communities.
Ecomark Rules 2024 encourage the demand for environment-friendly products aligning with the principles of
'LIFE’, promote lower energy consumption, resource efficiency and circular economy. The scheme seeks to
ensure accurate labelling and prevent misleading information about products. Products accredited under the
Ecomark Scheme need to adhere to specific environmental criteria ensuring minimal environmental impact.
This will build consumer awareness of environmental issues and encourage sustainable consumption. It will
also motivate manufacturers to shift towards environmentally friendly production.
The scheme marks a significant step in promoting sustainable lifestyles and through individual and collective
decision making, encourages sustainable consumption in India. It aligns with global sustainability goals and
reflects the government's commitment to conservation and protection of the environment.
ENSURE ACCURATE LABELLING AND PREVENT
MISLEADING INFORMATION
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135
CIRCULAR ECONOMY:
FROM WASTE TO WEALTH
India is shifting from waste management to
harnessing the economic potential of recycling
through waste to wealth initiatives. The circular
economy will play a major role in reducing, reusing,
and recycling at every stage, from product design to
By the year 2050 India’s circular economy is
expected to have a market value of $2 trillion and
create 10 million jobs, representing a sizable
opportunity for start-ups and new recycled product
developers. The recycling industry in the country is
developing and adopting newer innovative
technologies for reducing dependence on natural
resources as well as cutting down imports of critical
minerals needed for economic growth.
The Government has notified regulatory frameworks
for Circular Economy in various waste streams.
Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) rules have
been notified for plastic waste, tyre waste, battery
waste, used oil waste and e-waste. Further, EPR
framework for scrap metals, end of life vehicles, solid
waste and liquid waste, construction and demolition
waste are under active consideration. The EPR
framework will not only enhance the circularity in
economy but also help manage the wastes in
environmentally sound manner. A robust recycling
industry will also create jobs and contribute to
economic growth.
Generation of e-waste has increased over the past
years and is increasing day by day due to increased
usage of electrical and electronic equipment (EEE) by
D P O T V N F S T ø 5 P B E E S F T T U I J T U I F ( P W F S O N F O U S F W J T F E
the E-Waste (Management) Rules and revised rules
came into force in 2023. The objective is to take all
steps required to ensure that e-waste is managed in a
manner that protects health and environment against
any adverse effects from e-waste. These new rules
intend to manage e-waste in an environmentally
sound manner and put in place an improved
Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) regime for
e-waste recycling wherein all the manufacturers,
producers, refurbishers and recyclers are required to
register on a specific portal.
end-of-life management. Waste should not be treated
as a burden but as a resource. As such the number of
waste recycling plants in the country has more than
doubled since 2020 (See Figure 43).
0
500
1000
1500
2000
2500
3000
2020 2021 2023 2024
Figure 43: Number of waste recycling plants installed
Source: Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs
Number of waste recycling plants installed
Years
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136
SUSTAINABLE TEXTILE PRACTICES
PHASING OUT FOSSIL FUEL SUBSIDIES
0.00
0.05
0.10
0.15
0.20
0.25
2015-16 2016-17 2017-18 2018-19 2019-20 2020-21 2021-22 2022-23
Figure 44: Amount of fossil fuel subsidies per unit of GDP
India is also shifting its focus from an unsustainable
dependence on fossil fuel subsidies to fostering clean
energy. India’s reform of fuel subsidies has slashed
subsidies by a striking margin between 2014 and
2018. 82
This has led to the level of fossil fuel subsidies
per unit of GDP dropping dramatically since the advent
of the SDGs (See Figure 44
).
This shift was achieved through careful steps,
including the gradual phasing out of petrol and diesel
subsidies from 2010 to 2014, followed by measured
tax hikes on these fuels up to 2017. These moves,
though bold, were made to create fiscal breathing
room for renewable projects, allowing the government
to channel funds into clean energy initiatives at an
unprecedented scale. With subsidies for solar parks,
distributed energy solutions and state-owned
enterprises now steadily rising, India’s commitment to
clean power sets a strong example for others looking
to shift toward a more resilient energy future.
Year
Source: a) Numerator - Ministry of Finance b) Denominator - National Accounts Division, NSO, MoSPI Periodicity: Annual
Amount of fossil fuel subsidies per unit of GDP
As a large producer and exporter of textiles India has long championed sustainable textile practices, with our
handloom heritage, natural dyes and traditional crafts embodying zero-waste principles. In alignment with
Mission LiFE, India is taking bold steps to tackle textile waste through policy interventions, industry
collaborations and grassroots initiatives.
• Project SU.RE (Sustainable Resolution): In collaboration with major fashion retailers, this initiative commits
brands to sourcing sustainable raw materials, improving waste management, ensuring ethical supply
chains and overall minimising the industry’s environmental impact.
• Upcycling and Market Access Initiative: This initiative empowers “last-mile upcyclers” by
providing direct market access, eliminating intermediaries and streamlining supply chains.
• Vocal for Local campaign: India is promoting khadi, handloom and organic cotton—sustainable
alternatives that support local livelihoods while reducing the reliance on fast fashion. The Government
of India’s "Vocal for Local" campaign encourages consumers to embrace eco-friendly, traditionally
crafted textiles.
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137
RE-INVEST is the governments’ flagship event to showcase India’s RE potential to the world and to invite
investment in the sector by initiating multilateral dialogue. It is a global renewable energy investors meet and
expo organised by the Government of India. It is a platform for bringing together global investors, developers,
manufacturers and innovators in the renewable energy sector. The event aims to accelerate the development
and deployment of renewable energy in India and connect the Indian energy stakeholders with the global
investment community.
The 4
th
Edition of the RE-INVEST was organised in 2024 and highlighted India’s commitment towards
renewable energy. India committed to 540 GW of RE by 2030 from states/UTs. Financial institutions
committed investments of $386 billion and RE manufacturers committed to 340 GW of solar module capacity,
240 GW of solar cell capacity, 22 GW of wind capacity and 10 GW of electrolyser capacity.
83
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J … n ÏÐ r « 0 ³ ¨ … z ³ X n 0 ! … z ³ È x ¨ Á X … z z ( ¨ « … ( È ! Á X … z
138
SUSTAINABLE TOURISM
Environmental sustainability and socio-cultural
sustainability are the two key pillars in the National
Strategy for Sustainable Tourism. In line with the
strategy, the Travel for LiFE programme has been
initiated to promote sustainable tourism in the country
and to encourage tourists and tourism businesses to
adopt sustainable tourism practices. In addition, the
Swadesh Darshan Scheme has been revamped as
Swadesh Darshan 2.0 (SD 2.0) with the objective to
develop sustainable and responsible tourism
destinations following a tourist and destination centric
approach. The Scheme encourages adoption of
principles of sustainable tourism including
environmental sustainability, socio-cultural
sustainability and economic sustainability.
4 F W F S B M D J U J F T B S F S J T J O H U P U I F D I B M M F O H F C Z B E P Q U J O H ø [ F S P X B T U F T U S B U F H J F T U S B O T G P S N J O H D P N N V O J U J F T B O E I P V T J O H T P D J F U J F T J O U P N P E F M T P G T V T U B J O B C M F M J W J O H 8 J U I P W F S ø U P O O F T P G X B T U F ø Q S P D F T T F E E B J M Z B O E ø X B S E T ø Q S B D U J D J O H E P P S U P E P P S D P M M F D U J P O B O E T F H S F H B U J P O * O E J B T V S C B O X B T U F N B O B H F N F O U F G G P S U T are equally commendable. Zero-waste housing societies are playing a critical role in these advancements, reducing waste generation and fostering environmental consciousness. They exemplify the power of community-driven initiatives in transforming waste management across India.
In Navi Mumbai, the Seawood Estate NRI Cooperative Housing Society, with 1,500 residents, has emerged
as a leader in zero-waste practices. The society generates around 1,000 kg of waste daily—600 kg of dry
waste and 450 kg of wet waste. While dry waste is managed by the local municipal corporation, wet waste is
processed on-site, producing approximately 50 kg of compost per day. The society also operates a Sewage
Treatment Plant (STP) with a capacity of 105 kilolitres per day, using treated water to maintain green spaces.
In preparation for the monsoon season, the society has enhanced cleanliness efforts, including regular
inspections and awareness drives.
Further south in Calicut, Kerala, the Rock Way Residents’ Association has implemented 100% waste
segregation in its 96 households. The society generates over 3,000 kg of waste per month, with bio-waste
converted into energy through biogas plants or composted for household gardens. Tools like Bokashi
buckets and Geebin Multi-Layer Aerobic Kitchen Compost Bins are used to produce over 1,500 kg of
compost each month. To ensure hygiene during the monsoon season the society collaborates with the
Haritha Karma Sena for waste management and undertakes pre-monsoon cleaning efforts.
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139
WAY FORWARD
Key to India’s progress towards Sustainable
Development Goal 12 (SDG 12) is to enhance the
adoption of advanced recycling technologies, which
are essential to transforming waste management
systems and improving recovery rates. More
investment in advanced recycling technologies is
needed as adoption of emerging technologies can
transform waste management systems, thereby
improving recovery rates.
India is prioritising the adoption of advanced
recycling technologies to modernise waste
management and enhance material recovery.
Strengthening collaboration across the entire value
chain is essential to optimise resource use, promote
circular production models and develop robust
markets for recycled materials. Equally important is
increasing consumer awareness and driving
behavioural change through sustained campaigns
that incentivise recycling and encourage sustainable
consumption patterns.
India remains committed to working towards building
a circular economy that not only supports
environmental sustainability but also offers significant
economic opportunities. With a projected market
value of $2 trillion and the potential to create 10 million
jobs by 2050, advancing circularity presents a
powerful pathway for inclusive growth.
84
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140
13
GOAL
Climate
Action
SDG 13 (Climate Action) aims to take urgent
measures to combat climate change and its effects.
This goal encompasses efforts to address and
mitigate the impacts of climate change. The world is
witnessing rising sea levels, extreme weather
conditions and increasing concentrations of
greenhouse gases, threatening lives, particularly in
coastal areas. With the continuous rise in greenhouse
gas emissions, there is a need for ambitious plans
and accelerated actions for both mitigation and
adaptation to climate change impacts. This includes
access to finance and enhanced capacities. Goal 13
emphasises building capacity to mitigate and adapt
to climate-related hazards and integrating these
measures into national policies. It focuses not only on
early warning systems but also on reducing impacts.
Moreover, it highlights the importance of partnerships
and commitment among nations to achieve these
objectives since the causes and effects of climate
change transcend national boundaries.
India’s National Action Plan for Climate Change
(NAPCC) comprises national missions in specific
areas of solar energy, enhanced energy efficiency,
water, agriculture, Himalayan ecosystem, sustainable
habitat, green India, human health and strategic
knowledge on climate change. This plan aims to
achieve India’s developmental objectives with a focus
on reducing the emission intensity of its economy.
India successfully achieved its pre-2020 goal of
reducing emission intensity and is now implementing
programmes to meet its post- 2020 targets. The
Government also remains committed to creating
disaster-resilient societies and these efforts have
significantly reduced casualties from disastrous
events over the years.
INDIA’S CLIMATE TARGETS
AND ACTION PLANS
There is an urgent need for decisive action to combat
climate change, a challenge that is no longer a distant
threat but an immediate reality affecting lives,
economies and the future of the planet. Recognising
India's responsibility as one of the world's
fastest-growing economies, the country is committed
to balancing sustainable development with global
climate change mitigation efforts.
India’s climate action is guided by its updated
Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC)
85
and the
long-term strategy to reach net-zero by 2070 and it
cuts across various sectors of the economy. As a
party to the United Nations Framework Convention on
Climate Change (UNFCCC) and its Paris Agreement,
India submitted its first Nationally Determined
Contribution (NDC)
86
in the year 2015, for the period
2021 to 2030. In August 2022, India updated its NDC
according to which the target to reduce emissions
intensity of its GDP has been enhanced to 45 percent
by 2030 from 2005 level. Likewise, the target on
cumulative electric power installed capacity from
non-fossil fuel-based energy resources has been
enhanced to 50% by 2030. India also formulated and
submitted its Long-Term Low Greenhouse Gas
Emission Development Strategies (LT-LEDS) to
UNFCCC in November 2022. LT-LEDS involves seven
key strategic transitions, namely: (i) Low carbon
development of electricity systems consistent with
development; (ii) Developing an integrated, efficient,
inclusive low-carbon transport system; (iii) Promoting
adaptation in urban design, energy and
material-efficiency in buildings, and sustainable
urbanisation; (iv) Promoting economy-wide
decoupling of growth from emissions and
development of an efficient, innovative low-emission
J O E V T U S J B M T Z T U F N W $ 0 ø S F N P W B M B O E S F M B U F E
engineering solutions; (vi) Enhancing Forest and
vegetation cover consistent with socio-economic and
ecological considerations and (vii) Economic and
financial aspects of low-carbon development and
Long-Term Transition to Net-Zero by 2070.
87
5 I F ø / B U J P O B M " D U J P O 1 M B O P O $ M J N B U F $ I B O H F
/ " 1 $ $ ø Q S P W J E F T U I F P W F S B S D I J O H G S B N F X P S L G P S B M M
climate actions and comprises missions in specific
areas of solar energy, enhanced energy efficiency,
sustainable habitat, water, sustaining Himalayan
ecosystems, Green India, sustainable agriculture,
human health and strategic knowledge for climate
change.
India has progressively continued the process of
decoupling economic growth from GHG emissions.
# F U X F F O ø B O E * O E J B T F N J T T J P O J O U F O T J U Z P G
Gross Domestic Product (GDP) reduced by 36% as
against the updated NDC target of 45% by 2030.
During 2005 to 2021, additional carbon sink of 2.29
C J M M J P O U P O O F T P G $ 0 ø F R V J W B M F O U I B T C F F O D S F B U F E
against a target of 2.5-3 billion tonnes of carbon sink
through additional tree and forest cover by 2030
88
. By
February 2025, the share of non-fossil sources in the
installed electricity generation capacity was 47.37%
against the updated target of 50% by 2030
89
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143
Despite India's very low contribution to historical
emissions and to the current levels of global
emissions, India has taken several climate actions to
S F G M F D U F R V J U Z B O E U I F Q S J O D J Q M F P G D P N N P O C V U
differentiated responsibilities and respective
capabilities in the light of different national
circumstances and in the context of sustainable
development and efforts to eradicate poverty, as
enshrined in the United Nations Framework
Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and its
Paris Agreement.
Thirty-four States/UTs have prepared and some have
updated their State Action Plan on Climate Change
(SAPCC) in line with NAPCC addressing
region-specific vulnerabilities such as extreme
weather events (floods, droughts) and shifting
monsoon patterns. These SAPCCs outline
sector-specific and cross-sectoral priority actions,
including adaptation and climate resilient
infrastructure.
India has developed various sector-specific strategies
to strengthen its climate goals. These goals include: O Energy Sector: Investments in renewable energy
sources like solar, wind, and biomass, alongside
the implementation of smart grids and energy
storage.
O Transportation: Promotion of electric vehicles (EVs)
and enhancement of public transportation
systems.
O Agriculture: Focus on climate-resilient crops,
improved irrigation and sustainable farming
practices.
O Urban Development: Encouragement of
sustainable urban planning, green building
practices and waste management initiatives.
O Water Resources: Promotion of water conservation,
rainwater harvesting and enhanced river basin
management.
O Disaster Management: Strengthening resilience
against climate-induced disasters through
improved early warning systems and community
preparedness.
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144
O National Solar Mission: Aims to promote solar energy technologies and achieve 100 GW of solar power
capacity by 2022. This mission has propelled solar energy growth, with installed capacity rising from 9.01
GW in 2016 to 97.86 GW in 2025.
90
O National Wind Energy Mission: Focuses on expanding wind energy capacity and encouraging
innovation in wind technology.
O National Mission for Energy Efficiency: Seeks to enhance energy efficiency through programmes such
as the Perform, Achieve and Trade (PAT) scheme.
O National Mission on Sustainable Habitat: Aims to promote energy efficiency in buildings, urban planning
and waste management.
O National Water Mission: ' P D V T F T P O X B U F S D P O T F S W B U J P O B O E F R V J U B C M F E J T U S J C V U J P O B E E S F T T J O H U I F
impacts of climate change on water resources.
O National Mission for Sustaining the Himalayan Ecosystem: Works to protect the fragile Himalayan
ecosystem through research and monitoring.
O National Mission on Agricultural Adaptation: Aims to build resilience in agriculture by promoting
sustainable practices and crop diversification.
O National Mission on Green India: Seeks to increase forest cover, restore degraded ecosystems and
enhance ecosystem services.
AT A GLANCE: EIGHT KEY MISSIONS OF NATIONAL
ACTION PLAN FOR CLIMATE CHANGE
REDUCING CARBON
EMISSIONS
The Government amended the Energy Conservation
Act in the year 2022 to facilitate the development of
D B S C P O N B S L F U T J O U I F D P V O U S Z 4 V C T F R V F O U M Z V O E F S
the Act, the Government has notified the Carbon
Credit Trading Scheme (CCTS), which provides for
two mechanisms, namely compliance mechanism
and offset mechanism. In the compliance
N F D I B O J T N U I F P C M J H B U F E F O U J U J F T B S F S F R V J S F E U P
comply with the prescribed GHG emission intensity
reduction norms in each compliance cycle of CCTS.
The obligated entities which reduce their GHG
emission intensity below the prescribed GHG
emission intensity are eligible for issuance of Carbon
Credit Certificates. Under the offset mechanism the
non-obligated entities can register their projects for
GHG emission reduction or removal or avoidance for
issuance of Carbon Credit Certificates.
A plan has also been developed to smoothly shift
energy-intensive sectors and Designated Consumers
(DCs) from the Perform, Achieve, and Trade (PAT)
Scheme to the compliance mechanism under the
CCTS. This plan ensures continuity, consistency and
alignment with national climate goals while avoiding
duplication of targets. To initiate the transition the
Government has identified nine energy-intensive
sectors for inclusion under the compliance
mechanism of the CCTS, namely Aluminium, Cement,
Steel, Paper, Chlor-Alkali, Fertiliser, Refinery,
Petrochemical and Textile. Under the offset
mechanism ten sectors have been approved, which
include energy, industries, waste handling and
disposal, agriculture, forestry, transport, construction,
fugitive emissions, solvent use and Carbon Capture
Utilisation and Storage.
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145
IMPROVING DISASTER
RESILIENCE AND DISASTER
RISK REDUCTION
The Government has adopted a holistic approach to
disaster risk reduction to address the whole range of
issues in the entire disaster management cycle,
ranging from preparedness, response, capacity
building, recovery and reconstruction and mitigation
by the use of innovative methods, technology and
J O U F S O B U J P O B M D P P Q F S B U J P O ø % V S J O H U I F M B T U G F X Z F B S T ø
India built on its earlier efforts and made significant
progress in disaster risk reduction. States are also
actively developing specific initiatives, for example,
the Government of Himachal Pradesh has started the
Climate Resilient Villages (CRV) programme under
which it has identified 100 climate sensitive villages.
The focus is on reducing disaster risk, benefit in
conservation of crops, food safety and empowering
rural communities.
The National Landslide Risk Mitigation Programme
has also been approved which includes
implementation of landslide risk mitigation activities /
projects in 15 States. Under the National Cyclone Risk
Mitigation Project (NCRMP), early warning systems
have been installed in the Coastal States, which
helped in alert dissemination to the coastal
community during the recent cyclones. A web-based
Dynamic Composite Risk Atlas and Decision Support
System (Web-DCRA and DSS tool) for cyclone risk
mitigation and response planning has been
E F W F M P Q F E ø 5 I F U P P M I B T C F F O T V D D F T T G V M M Z V T F E J O
recent cyclones such as Biparjoy (June, 2023) and
Michaung (December, 2023)
Aapda Mitra Scheme has been implemented and
1,00,000 community volunteers have been trained in
disaster rescue in 350 multi-hazards disaster prone
E J T U S J D U T D P W F S J O H B M M 4 U B U F T 6 5 T ø & B D I W P M V O U F F S o
" B Q E B . J U S B P S " B Q E B 4 B L I J o J T H J W F O U X P X F F L
intense training in disaster response (relevant to their
B S F B P G P Q F S B U J P O T F R V J Q Q F E X J U I B O & N F S H F O D Z
Responder Kit (ERK) and provided insurance cover
for five years. In addition, each district is provided an
Emergency Essential Resource Reserve (EERR) for
the use of Aapda Mitra during disasters.
Common Alerting Protocol (CAP) based Integrated
Alert System has been implemented for dissemination
of geo targeted early warnings/alerts related to
disasters to the citizens of India for all 36 States/UTs
using various disseminating medium like SMS, TV,
Radio, Indian Railways, Coastal Sirens, Cell
broadcast, Internet (RSS feed and Browser
Notification), Satellite Receiver of GAGAN and NavIC
F U D U I S P V H I J O U F H S B U J P O P G B M M " M F S U J O H " H F O D J F T ø 5 I F
alerts are sent to geo-targeted areas in regional
languages. There is a web-based dashboard to
disaster managers for approving/editing alerts and
choosing media for dissemination.
India has developed an Indigenous climate model,
namely the IITM-Earth System Model (IITM-ESM),
which provides reliable future projections of Indian
monsoon rainfall and is used in addressing climate
variability and change issues across the region. The
model is the first from India to contribute to the
Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC)
Sixth Assessment Report (IPCC-AR6). A number of
mobile applications such as Damini, Mausam,
Meghdoot etc. have been developed for timely
dissemination of early warnings and alerts to the
common people / farmers.
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146
MISSION MAUSAM: ENHANCING WEATHER AND
CLIMATE RESILIENCE FOR INDIA
Recognising the critical need for accurate weather forecasting, especially in a country where agriculture is a
Q S J N B S Z M J W F M J I P P E U I F ( P W F S O N F O U ø B Q Q S P W F E ø . J T T J P O . B V T B N B O J O J U J B U J W F E F T J H O F E U P N B L F U I F O B U J P O ø
A 8 F B U I F S 3 F B E Z ø B O E ø A $ M J N B U F 4 N B S U * U B J N T U P J N Q S P W F X F B U I F S B O E D M J N B U F T F S W J D F T F O T V S J O H U J N F M Z B O E
precise observation, modelling, and forecasting information for multiple sectors, including agriculture,
E J T B T U F S N B O B H F N F O U B O E S V S B M E F W F M P Q N F O U 5 I S P V H I ø D P M M B C P S B U J P O ø X J U I O B U J P O B M B O E J O U F S O B U J P O B M S F T F B S D I
J O T U J U V U J P O T B D B E F N J B B O E J O E V T U S Z . J T T J P O . B V T B N B T Q J S F T U P ø S F W P M V U J P O J T F ø * O E J B h T X F B U I F S B O E D M J N B U F
T F S W J D F T X I J M F ø D F N F O U J O H J U T H M P C B M M F B E F S T I J Q ø J O U I J T D S J U J D B M G J F M E 5 I F J O J U J B U J W F M F W F S B H F T ø D V U U J O H F E H F
U F D I O P M P H Z J O D M V E J O H ø I J H I S F T P M V U J P O N P E F M T B O E T V Q F S D P N Q V U J O H T Z T U F N T ø U P Q S P W J E F ø B D D V S B U F G P S F D B T U T P O
various timescales—ranging from short-term (hours) to seasonal predictions.
Achievements include:
O 0 W F S ø % P Q Q M F S 8 F B U I F S 3 B E B S T ø I B W F C F F O J O T U B M M F E B D S P T T * O E J B U P T U S F O H U I F O S F B M U J N F N P O J U P S J O H
capabilities.
O 5 I F ø . B V T B N ø N P C J M F B Q Q ø Q S P W J E F T M P D B U J P O T Q F D J G J D ø X F B U I F S G P S F D B T U T G P S D J U J F T ø J O * O E J B
O 4 F B T P O B M Q S F E J D U J P O N P E F M T ø I B W F T I P X O T J H O J G J D B O U J N Q S P W F N F O U V O E F S U I F ø / B U J P O B M . P O T P P O . J T T J P O
framework.
O 4 Q F D J B M J T F E Q S P H S B N N F T P O V S C B O G M P P E J O H Q S F E J D U J P O ø B O E ø D Z D M P O F U S B D L J O H I B W F C F F O J O J U J B U F E
During India’s 2023 G20 Presidency, a Working Group on Disaster Risk Reduction was established in which
five priority areas of disaster risk reduction were identified: global coverage of early warning systems;
disaster and climate resilient infrastructure; financing framework for disaster risk reduction; disaster response
system; and ecosystem-based approach to DRR
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147
WAY FORWARD
" D I J F W J O H D M J N B U F U B S H F U T X J M M S F R V J S F C V J M E J O H
stronger partnerships among government, industry,
academia and civil society to effectively mobilise
resources, share knowledge and scale up solutions.
Enhancing these collaborations will enable
coordinated and impactful climate action across
all levels.
Innovation remains central to India’s climate strategy,
with advancements needed in renewable energy,
sustainable agriculture and green technologies. The
Government’s commitment to supporting research
and development is a positive foundation, but
continued efforts are necessary to accelerate the
translation of innovations into practical, scalable
solutions that can drive the country’s transition to a
low-carbon economy.
Investing in resilient infrastructure today is critical for
securing a better tomorrow. Resilience must be
integrated not only into the design and construction of
new infrastructure but also into post-disaster
rebuilding efforts, ensuring that communities are
better prepared to withstand future climate shocks.
Carbon Capture Utilisation and Storage (CCUS) holds
a vital role in decarbonising India’s industrial and
power sectors. It is key to promoting sustainable
development and growth, particularly by enabling the
production of clean energy and products that support
the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat. Scaling up CCUS
U F D I O P M P H J F T X J M M S F R V J S F G P D V T F E J O W F T U N F O U
supportive policies and capacity building.
' P S D M J N B U F B E B Q U B U J P O * O E J B B J N T U P G P M M P X B ø
multi-faceted approach tailored to the regional
specificities. It includes inter alia, policy initiatives,
sector-specific strategies, development of resilient
infrastructure, research and development and
securing financial resources for adaptation efforts.
Additionally, the ongoing work on the preparation of
* O E J B T ø / B U J P O B M " E B Q U B U J P O 1 M B O / " 1 ø G P D V T F T P O
developing a comprehensive and inclusive NAP that
aligns with sustainable development goals and
ensures climate resilience for all regions and
sectors.
91
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148
14
GOAL
Life Below
Water
SDG 14 (Life Below Water) recognises the importance
of the oceans and marine ecosystems in sustaining
life on Earth, supporting livelihoods and regulating the
climate. SDG 14 seeks to tackle the challenges faced
by marine life, including threats from marine and
nutrient pollution, resource depletion, overfishing,
habitat destruction, climate change, degradation and
loss of biodiversity and ocean acidification, all
primarily caused by human actions. The goal
advocates for corrective measures, such as
effectively regulating harvesting, overfishing, and
protecting marine and coastal ecosystems. Another
important facet of this goal is also to increase
scientific knowledge to improve ocean health and
provide access to marine resources and markets for
small-scale artisanal fishers.
India is a maritime country and has wide water
resources lying both in inland and marine sectors
which are being utilised for capture and culture
fisheries. The Indian fisheries sector is set in a unique
and diverse set of ecosystems ranging from the
pristine waters of the Himalayas to the sprawling
Indian Ocean. The fisheries biodiversity of the country
encompasses a wide spectrum of physical and
biological components that support the livelihoods of
millions of people. Several initiatives have been
undertaken to protect marine and coastal ecosystems
including mangroves and coral reefs. These efforts
have contributed to the growth in the maximum
sustainable yield in fishing over the years.
TRANSFORMING THE
FISHERIES SECTOR
The fisheries sector plays an important role in the
Indian economy. It contributes to the national income,
exports, food and nutritional security and in
employment generation. This sector is also a principal
source of livelihood for a large section of the
economically underprivileged population of the
country, especially in the coastal areas. India has
C F D P N F U I F ø O E M B S H F T U G J T I Q S P E V D F S
O E M B S H F T U
aquaculture nation and the largest producer of
shrimp
93
, taking Brand India from ‘Local to Global’.
The fisheries sector in the country continues to be
among the most critical and fastest growing
agriculture allied sectors in the country. The sector
has exhibited strong growth of about 8% per year on
average with aquaculture growing at an annual
average of more than 10%. The fisheries sector has
been recognized as a ‘Sunrise Sector’ and has
demonstrated an outstanding double-digit average
B O O V B M H S P X U I P G T J O D F X J U I B S F D P S E
G J T I Q S P E V D U J P O P G M B L I U P O T B U U I F F O E P G ' :
94
India is at the forefront of transforming the fisheries
sector and bringing about economic revolution
through the Blue Revolution in the country. To
enhance the economic resilience of the coastal
communities impacted by climate change, the
Government has launched the Pradhan Mantri Matsya
4 B N Q B E B : P K B O B 1 . . 4 : 5 I J T U S B O T G P S N B U J W F
scheme for the fisheries sector and the welfare of
fishermen has identified 100 coastal fishermen
villages situated close to the coastline as Climate
3 F T J M J F O U $ P B T U B M ' J T I F S N F O 7 J M M B H F T
The activities
in the identified coastal fishermen villages are
need-based facilities, including common facilities like
fish drying yards, fish processing centres, fish
N B S L F U T G J T I J O H K F U U J F T J D F Q M B O U T D P M E T U P S B H F T B O E
emergency rescue facilities. The government is also
promoting climate resilient livelihoods like
aquaculture, especially the mariculture of seaweed,
food and ornamental fishes, bivalves etc. Additionally,
it is providing funding support for research,
technology development and capacity-building to
enhance inland and marine aquaculture.
Implementation of ReALCraft, a web-based portal for
registration and licensing of fishing vessels, issuance
of biometric identity cards to marine fishers and
vessel communication and support system supported
V O E F S U I F 1 . . 4 : J T I F M Q J O H J O Q S F W F O U J P O P G J M M F H B M
unreported and unregulated fishing.
96
CONSERVING AND
RESTORING COASTAL AND
MARINE HABITATS
To ensure long-term viability of the sector and to
address the issues related to climate change,
protection and restoration of critical habitat, the
Central Government is working closely with the State
Governments and environmental agencies. These
efforts include establishment of artificial reefs along
the entire coastline of India, conduct of sea ranching,
promotion of seaweed farming, implementation of
V O J G P S N G J T I J O H C B O G P S E B Z T E V S J O H U I F N B K P S G J T I
breeding period and installation of Turtle Excluder
J … n ÏÒ r n X I 0 0 n … á á Á 0 «
Devices (TEDs) in trawl nets for conservation of turtles
F U D ' V S U I F S B E W J T P S J F T I B W F C F F O J T T V F E U P
4 U B U F T 6 5 T U P U B L F N F B T V S F T U P Q S F W F O U K V W F O J M F
fishing such as implementation of mesh size
regulations and minimum legal size of fish under their
. B S J O F ' J T I J O H 3 F H V M B U J P O " D U T . ' 3 " T U P F O T V S F
sustainable and responsible fishing practices.
The Union Government also provides financial
assistance to coastal States to undertake activities
related to conservation and management of coastal
ecosystems such as mangrove plantation, shelterbelt
plantation, coral transplantation and enhancement of
livelihood security of coastal communities including
capacity building.
5 I F J O T U B M M B U J P O P G ø " S U J G J D J B M 3 F F G T ø J O * O E J B J T Q B S U P G U I F
ongoing efforts to restore marine ecosystems,
enhance biodiversity and support sustainable fishing
practices. Artificial reefs are engineering interventions
designed to rehabilitate and/or enhance natural
habitats, increase productivity and manage aquatic
resources, including habitat improvement. India’s
M B S H F T U D P S B M U S B O T M P D B U J P O Q S P K F D U J O W P M W F E S F M P D B U J O H
D P S B M T G S P N J O U F S U J E B M B O E T V C U J E B M [ P O F T U P
T V J U B C M F T J U F T B S P V O E / B S B S B ( V K B S B U
Additionally,
D P S B M D F N F O U G S B N F T B S U J G J D J B M S F F G T I B W F C F F O
strategically placed to ensure the long-term
preservation of marine biodiversity. 937 artificial reef
units across 11 coastal states and Union Territories
have been sanctioned under the Pradhan Mantri
. B U T Z B 4 B N Q B E B : P K B O B 1 . . 4 : U P Q S P N P U F U I F
restoration of aquatic life.
The Government has taken a number of steps to
protect and enhance mangrove forests in coastal
States/Union Territories through regulatory and
promotional measures. This includes the Mangrove
Initiative for Shoreline Habitats & Tangible Incomes
(MISHTI), a programme launched by the Government
P G * O E J B J O J O D P M M B C P S B U J P O X J U I D P B T U B M 4 U B U F T
and Union Territories to restore and promote
mangroves for preserving and enhancing the
sustainability of the coastal ecosystem and habitats.
5 I F P C K F D U J W F P G . * 4 ) 5 * J T ø U P S F T U P S F B G G P S F T U B U J P O P G
N B O H S P W F T ø D P W F S J O H B Q Q S P Y J N B U F M Z T R L N
spreading across 9 coastal States and 4 UTs.
98
* O E J B h T U P U B M N B O H S P W F D P W F S T U B O E T B U L N D P O T U J U V U J O H ø ø P G U I F O B U J P O T H F P H S B Q I J D B M B S F B 5 I F S F I B T C F F O O F U J O D S F B T F P G ø 4 R L N ø ø J O . B O H S P W F D P W F S B S F B P G U I F D P V O U S Z J O B T D P N Q B S F E U P B O E O F U J O D S F B T F P G ø 4 R L N ø C F U X F F O B O E
99
8 F T U # F O H B M ø I P M E T U I F M B S H F T U T I B S F P G U I F D P V O U S Z h T N B O H S P W F G P S F T U T B D D P V O U J O H G P S ø ø P G U I F U P U B M D P W F S G P M M P X F E C Z ø ( V K B S B U ø B O E U I F ø " O E B N B O / J D P C B S * T M B O E T / P U B C M Z ø ( V K B S B U ø I B T S F D P S E F E B O J N Q S F T T J W F J O D S F B T F P G ø T R L N ø J O N B O H S P W F D P W F S C F U X F F O B O E B U U S J C V U F E U P large-scale plantations, community participation and public-private partnerships.
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CONTROLLING MARINE
POLLUTION
5 I F / B U J P O B M 1 P M J D Z P O . B S J O F ' J T I F S J F T Q S P W J E F T U I F
guiding principles of conservation and optimum
utilisation of fisheries resources. The policy also
highlights the marine environment and pollution
issues including micro-plastic and ghost nets. The
policy supports regulatory mechanisms to control
pollutants from land and sea-based sources, which
can be effectively controlled and the ecosystems
monitored for pollution related aspects. To combat
marine plastic pollution particularly from fishing and
maritime sectors, the Government of India has been
actively engaged in the global efforts like Glolitter
1 B S U O F S T I J Q 1 S P K F D U B O E 3 F H M J U U F S 1 S P K F D U C P U I P G X I J D I
B S F K P J O U M Z J N Q M F N F O U F E C Z U I F * O U F S O B U J P O B M . B S J U J N F
0 S H B O J [ B U J P O ' P P E B O E " H S J D V M U V S F 0 S H B O J [ B U J P O P G
U I F 6 O J U F E / B U J P O T 5 I F T F Q S P K F D U T G P D V T P O
preventing and reducing Marine Plastic Litter from
sea-based sources with an emphasis on addressing
B C B O E P O F E M P T U P S E J T D B S E F E G J T I J O H H F B S " - % ' (
and wastes from ships. As a Lead Partnering Country
J O U I F ( M P M J U U F S 1 S P K F D U * O E J B I B T Q V C M J T I F E J U T / B U J P O B M
Action Plan, which outlines strategic measures to
reduce Marine Plastic Litter from Sea-based Sources.
To address the issues of destructive fishing the
Government of India has banned fishing methods
such as pair or bull trawling and the use of LED or
artificial lights for fishing in the EEZ area.
REGIONAL MARINE POLLUTION RESPONSE CENTRE
* O * O E J B F T U B C M J T I F E U I F 3 F H J P O B M . B S J O F 1 P M M V U J P O 3 F T Q P O T F $ F O U S F B G J S T U P G J U T L J O E G B D J M J U Z G P S D P P S E J O B U J O H S F T Q P O T F B H B J O T U N B S J O F Q P M M V U J P O Q B S U J D V M B S M Z P J M B O E D I F N J D B M Q P M M V U J P O J O X B U F S T B E K P J O J O H U I F D P B T U B M T U B U F T J O U I F * O E J B O 0 D F B O 3 F H J P O * U I B T B O & N F S H F O D Z 3 F T Q P O T F $ F O U S F X I J D I J T N B O O F E Y C Z Indian Coast Guard personnel to monitor marine oil pollution incidents. The Centre imparts training in Pollution response techniques to various organisations such as Ports, Oil Handling agencies, Government organisations and private participants. It also trains personnel from other countries in combating oil pollution at sea. The practical training involves actual deployment of various oil handling equipment for maximum exposure to real time oil spill scenarios.
LEVERAGING
TECHNOLOGIES TO
PROTECT MARINE SYSTEMS
AND TAP MARINE BIO
RESOURCES
The Government has launched several programmes
using advanced technologies like satellite imagery to
manage and protect coral reef ecosystems. Ocean
Services, Modelling, Application, Resources and
Technology (O-SMART) encompassing
oceanographic research activities is being
J N Q M F N F O U F E X J U I U I F P C K F D U J W F T G P S Q S P W J E J O H
forecast and services based on the continuous
observation of our oceans, development of
technologies and exploratory surveys for sustainable
harnessing of our oceanic resources (both living and
non-living) and promotion of front-ranking research in
ocean sciences. The scheme encompasses seven
sub-schemes namely Ocean Technology, Ocean
Modelling and Advisory Services (OMAS), Ocean
Observation Network (OON), Ocean Non-Living
Resources, Marine Living Resources and Ecology
(MLRE), Coastal Research and Operation and
. B J O U F O B O D F P G 3 F T F B S D I 7 F T T F M T ø
4 F W F S B M N B K P S N J M F T U P O F T I B W F C F F O B D I J F W F E
through the activities of the scheme, the most
significant is India's recognition as Pioneer Investor
with International Seabed Authority for conducting
extensive research on deep sea mining of Poly
Metallic Nodules and hydrothermal sulphides in the
allotted area of the Indian Ocean. The technology
development for desalination using low temperature
thermal desalination and installation of such facilities
in Lakshadweep islands is also a significant
achievement. Moreover, India's ocean related
activities are now extended from the Arctic to
Antarctic region covering large ocean space which
have been monitored through in-situ and satellite-
J … n ÏÒ r n X I 0 0 n … á á Á 0 «
based observation. India has taken a leadership role
in implementing the Indian Ocean component of the
Global Ocean Observing System.
Considering the importance of collection of data on
coastal processes towards coastal protection
measures a new component Coastal Management
Information System (CMIS) has been initiated under
the Development of Water Resources Information
System scheme. CMIS is a data collection activity
carried out to collect near shore coastal data which
can be used in planning, design, construction and
maintenance of site specific coastal protection
structures at vulnerable Coastal stretches.
$ P S B M 3 F F G J O T J U V 0 C T F S W B U J P O / F U X P S L ø $ 3 F 0 /
programme focuses on long-term coral reef health
monitoring, calcification rates and ocean
acidification, based on the deployment of Data Buoy
and Automated Weather Stations at various Coral
Reef sites along the Indian Coast including Andaman
and Nicobar and Lakshadweep Islands. NCSCM has
mapped 1439 square km of the coral reefs of India.
The Indian National Centre for Ocean Information
Services provides early warnings of potential coral
bleaching using satellite data, helping to protect coral
ecosystems and support climate resilience efforts.
The Coral Bleaching Alert System (CBAS) assesses
thermal stress accumulated in coral environments
based on sea surface temperature. Information
derived from CBAS is disseminated every three days,
including data on hotspots, the degree of heating
weeks and time series products.
WAY FORWARD
India faces several specific challenges in making
progress on SDG 14, each requiring targeted action
to ensure sustainable marine ecosystems and
livelihoods.
Small-scale and traditional fishers face vulnerability
due to declining catches, climate impacts and
competition from mechanised fleets. Many are forced
to alter their fishing methods or seek alternative
livelihoods. Supporting these communities through
capacity building, financial inclusion, alternative
livelihood programmes and access to sustainable
fishing technologies is essential to enhance their
resilience and well-being.
Public-private partnerships present an opportunity for
advancing sustainable fisheries, improving market
access and developing marine infrastructure. The
country is focusing on fostering collaboration
between the government, industry, academia and
M P D B M D P N N V O J U J F T ø U P E F W F M P Q B S P C V T U B O E
sustainable blue economy.
A significant challenge facing India’s marine and
coastal sector is the increasing frequency of
cyclones, the impact of marine heatwaves, coastal
erosion and rising sea levels. These climate-related
threats, combined with other issues, place
considerable strain on the sector despite numerous
government schemes aimed at its development.
These factors not only threaten the livelihoods of
coastal communities but also undermine the
sustainability and resilience of marine resources.
Therefore, the Government is continuing to further
strengthen the resilience of India’s coastlines and
developing comprehensive risk management
strategies.
J … n ÏÒ r n X I 0 0 n … á á Á 0 «
GOAL
Life On
Land15
Goal 15 underscores the critical importance of
biodiversity as humanity’s life - support system.
However, the relentless depletion of forests around
the world, coupled with an alarming rate of species
extinction and stagnation in safeguarding key
biodiversity areas, jeopardises the delicate balance
of ecosystems. To address the pressing global
environmental challenges and crises, including
climate change, biodiversity loss and pollution, as
well as desertification, land and soil degradation,
drought and deforestation, it is imperative to intensify
efforts to fulfil our global environmental and
biodiversity commitments. It also seeks to promote
fair and equitable sharing of the benefits arising from
the utilisation of genetic resources, and prevent
poaching and trafficking of protected species of flora
and fauna.
The total forest cover of the country is 7,15,267.67 5
square kilometers which is 21.76% of the geographical
area of the country.
100
It shows an increase of 156.41
Sq. Km in the forest cover at national level as
compared to the previous assessment (See Figure
45). There is improvement in soil health (87.16 % of
shallow to deep soil as against 83.53 % in 2013). The
load of moderate to heavy grazing has come down to
35.79 % in 2023 as compared to 41.04 % in 2013.
Biotic influences on forests have also come down to
26.66 % (2023) from 31.28% in 2013. All these
indicate improvement in floral biodiversity as well as
improved surroundings for faunal biodiversity.
Several initiatives are contributing in this regard, such
as Forest Fire Prevention and Management, Green
India Mission, Nagar Van Yojana, Development of
Wildlife Habitat (DWH), Project Elephant and Tiger, as
well as through the CAMPA funds, etc. This is a
reflection of India’s successful efforts to balance
development priorities, while simultaneously
addressing environmental conservation.
21.10
21.20
21.30
21.40
21.50
21.60
21.70
21.80
2015 2017 2019 2021
Percentage
Figure 45: Forest cover as a percentage of total geographical area (%)
Source: Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change
Year
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157
! … z ³ 0 « à X z J X … ( X à 0 « ³ X Á ç
z ( X z ! « 0 ³ X z J I … « 0 ³ Á
! … à 0 «
India released its updated National Biodiversity
4 U S B U F H Z B O E " D U J P O 1 M B O / # 4 " 1 B U U I F U I ø N F F U J O H
of the Conference of Parties (COP 16) to the
Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) in Cali,
Colombia in October 2024. The updated NBSAP
aligned with the KMGBF is a vital roadmap to address
the strategies to halt and reverse biodiversity loss by
2030, with a longer-term vision of living in harmony
with nature by 2050. India had adopted the
‘whole-of-government’ and ‘whole-of-society’
approach in updating its NBSAP. The updated NBSAP
acknowledges environmental challenges and outlines
strategies to address them through ecosystem
restoration, species recovery programmes,
community-driven conservation efforts focusing on the
restoration of degraded ecosystems, the protection of
wetlands, and the sustainable management of marine
and coastal areas.
The updated NBSAP emphasises the adoption of a
transformative approach and focuses on an
ecosystem-based management approach, a
bottom-up approach for implementation,
mainstreaming biodiversity, sectoral integration and
inter-agency cooperation. It also provides an insight
into the current status of biodiversity across India and
trends, therein existing policy and institutional
frameworks, biodiversity expenditure and potential
biodiversity finance solutions.
Biodiversity Conservation Scheme is being implemented as a pilot project at four identified sites namely Nanda Devi, Dehang Debang, Pachamari and Agasthyamalai Biosphere Reserves for a five-year period from the last quarter of 2021. The objective of the scheme is to conserve the diversity and integrity of plants and animals within natural ecosystems; to safeguard genetic diversity of species on which their continuing evolution depends; to provide areas for multi-faceted research and monitoring; to provide facilities for education and training; and to ensure sustainable use of natural resources through most appropriate mechanism for improvement of economic well-being of the local people.
Green India Mission (GIM) aims at increasing the
forest/tree cover and improving the quality of the
existing forest cover; improving ecosystem services
including biodiversity, hydrological services and
carbon sequestration; increasing forest-based
livelihood income of households living in and around
the forests; and enhancing annual CO2
sequestration. The activities under GIM were started
in the FY 2015-16 and so far funds have been
released to 17 States and 1 UT for creation of
plantation/eco-restoration over an area of 155130
hectares. GIM is being implemented on a landscape
approach with the help of Joint Forest Management
Committees (JFMC’s) which includes the
representatives of local communities. It is largely
focusing on the eco-restoration activities (including
plantation) in the vulnerable and degraded
landscapes.
The Government has launched several
schemes/programmes viz. National Afforestation
Programme: A Participatory Approach to Sustainable
Development of Forests, National Action Programme
to Combat Desertification etc. for conservation of
biodiversity, which contribute to the target of
restoration of 26 million hectares of degraded land
and achievement of land degradation neutrality with
focus on sustainable and optimum utilisation of land
resources. This will help in preserving forests and
biodiversity, facilitating conservation of natural
resources and improving carbon sinks. As a
consequence of these and other efforts, forest
biomass in the country is increasing and the
proportion of forests included as protected areas has
been rising (See Figure 46). Government spending on
all forms of environmental protection has also been
rising (See Figure 47).
Since 2014, 59 wetlands have been added to the list
of Ramsar Sites taking the tally to 89 in the country
covering an area of 1.358 million hectares.
101
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158
Source: National Accounts Division, NSO, MoSPI
Figure 46: Progress towards sustainable forest management
Figure 47: Percentage of government spending on environmental
protection to total government expenditure
2015-16 2016-17 2017-18 2018-19 2019-20 2020-21 2021-22 2022-23
60
50
40
30
20
10
0
Expenditure in billions
Government expenditure on Environment Protection
Percentage share of government spending on Environmental protection (rhs)
0.12
0.11
0.10
0.09
0.08
0.07
0.06
0.05
0.04
0.03
0.02
0.01
0.00
Percentage
1000 tonnes
Percentage
Source: FSI, Ministry of Environment Forest and Climate Change
4.7
4.8
4.9
5
5.1
5.2
5.3
2180000
2200000
2220000
2240000
2260000
2280000
2300000
2320000
2340000
2017 2019 2021
Above-ground biomass in forest (1000 tonnes)
Proportion of geographical area under legally established protected areas (in percent, rhs)
Year
Year
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159
0 z R z ! X z J ³ … X n I 0 « Á X n X Á ç
To improve the health of soil, for the past decade, the
Government has been issuing soil health cards to all
farmers in the country. Soil health card provides
information to farmers on nutrient status of their soil
along with recommendation on the appropriate
dosage of nutrients to be applied for improving soil
health and its fertility. The Soil Health Card contains
status of the soil with respect to 12 parameters,
O B N F M Z ø / 1 , 4 . B D S P O V U S J F O U T ; O ' F $ V . O # P
(Micro - nutrients); and pH (Acidity or Basicity), EC
(Electrical Conductivity) and OC (Organic Carbon).
The card also indicates fertiliser recommendations
and soil amendments required for the farm. Soil
samples are taken generally two times in a year after
harvesting of Rabi and Kharif Crop respectively or
when there is no standing crop in the field.
" Q J M P U Q S P K F D U P O ø 4 D I P P M 4 P J M ) F B M U I 1 S P H S B N N F ø I B T
C F F O V O E F S U B L F O J O ø T D I P P M T ø J O S V S B M B S F B T 5 I F B J N
is to make students aware about soil health for
sustainable agriculture practices. Modules for
students from class VI to XII and teachers have been
developed and disseminated and 20 soil health labs
have been set up in these schools. Under the
programme soil samples were collected by school
students and soil testing was also done by students
and SHCs were generated. Students also educated
farmers about the recommendation of soil health
cards for the judicious use of fertilisers and crop
S F D P N N F O E B U J P O T " T P G ' F C S V B S Z ø
T D I P P M T ø B S F J N Q M F N F O U J O H U I F 4 D I P P M 4 P J M ) F B M U I
1 S P H S B N N F X J U I ø T P J M U F T U J O H M B C T ø T F U V Q B O E ø
ø T U V E F O U T F O S P M M F E
102
Á ! k n X z J I … « 0 ³ Á I X « 0
5 I F ø ' P S F T U ' J S F 1 S F W F O U J P O B O E . B O B H F N F O U 4 D I F N F ø
supports states and Union Territories in preventing
and controlling forest fires. The scheme aims to
reduce forest fire incidents and restore productivity in
affected areas. It emphasises the involvement of local
communities in forest protection and contributes to
maintaining environmental stability. Developing a fire
danger rating system and forecasting methods is also
a key objective. The scheme encourages the use of
modern technology, such as Remote Sensing, GPS,
and GIS, to enhance fire prevention efforts.
Additionally, it seeks to improve knowledge about the
impact and behaviour of forest fires. A forest fire
detection system is also in place to detect and share
information about forest fires in near real-time. This
system plays a crucial role in the early detection and
effective management of forest fires across the
country.
Based on a study with the World Bank and
consultations with key national and state stakeholders
a National Action Plan on Forest Fire has also been
developed to minimise forest fires. The plan
comprises taking actions by informing, enabling and
empowering forest fringe communities and
incentivising them to work in tandem with the Forest
Departments. It also comprises reducing the
vulnerability of forests against fire hazards, enhancing
the capabilities of forest personnel and institutions in
fighting fires and speeding up recovery after a fire
F W F O U ø
Kerala has launched the Pachaturuth (Green Spot) initiative under the Haritha Keralam Mission, a pioneering project aims to address climate change, preserve biodiversity and enhance local ecosystems by creating green spaces that serve as carbon sinks. The initiative involves the active participation of various stakeholders, including government departments, environmental organisations and educational institutions, ensuring a collaborative approach to safeguarding Kerala's natural heritage.
¨ ! R Á È « È Á R h J « 0 0 z ³ ¨ … Ái X z X Á X Á X à 0 X z k 0 « n
J … n ÏÓ r n X I 0 … z n z (
160
Figure 48: Protected area as percentage of total geographical area
Source: Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, India
Note: The Convention of Biological Diversity defines a Protected Area as a clearly defined geographical space,
recognised, dedicated and managed through legal or other effective means, to achieve the long-term conservation of
nature with associated ecosystem services and cultural values.
India has launched the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) in 2023 and established a demonstrative step to
conserve 7 wild cats across the globe in the world. Five countries namely India, Nicaragua, Eswatini, Somalia
and Liberia have signed the Framework Agreement (FA) and have become the members of IBCA. The
Framework Agreement is intended to establish IBCA to collectively address common challenges for the
protection and conservation of seven Big Cats in the world. The parties to this agreement shall be guided by the
principles of coordinated action for protection and conservation of seven big cats and seeking the benefits of
collective action under the IBCA.
X z Á 0 « z Á X … z n X J ! Á n n X z ! 0
! … z ³ 0 « à X z J á X n ( n X I 0
R X Á Á ³
Conservation planning in India is based on the
philosophy of identifying and protecting
representative wild habitats across all the
ecosystems. The number of Protected Areas
(includes National Parks, sanctuaries, conservation
reserves or community reserves) in the country, which
stood at 745 in the year 2014 have risen to 1022 in the
year 2024. This accounts for 5.43% of the country’s
total geographic area (See Figure 48). Participation of
people is given more impetus and there has been a
substantial increase in establishment of Community
Reserves. The number of Community Reserves in the
country has increased from 43 in the year 2014 to 220
at the end of 2024.
103
Apart from the protected areas, the country also has
57 tiger reserves notified under the Wild Life
(Protection) Act, 1972 with the prime focus of
conservation of tigers and its habitat. States have also
declared 33 elephant reserves for providing safer
habitats to the elephants. As per All India Tiger
Estimation 2022 report the estimated tiger population
in India is 3,682, which accounts for 70% of wild tiger
population of the World.
4.95
5.00
5.05
5.10
5.15
5.20
5.25
5.30
5.35
5.40
5.45
5.50
2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023
Percentage
Year
J … n ÏÓ r n X I 0 … z n z (
161
á ç I … « á « (
Sustainable management of terrestrial ecosystems is
critical for maintaining biodiversity, supporting
livelihoods and ensuring environmental stability.
Multiple interconnected issues threaten India’s
progress on SDG 15, ranging from habitat loss and
species decline to pressures from urbanisation and
T L J M M H B Q T J O D P O T F S W B U J P O F G G P S U T ø
Forests and plant biodiversity face significant
challenges due to deforestation, land-use changes
and unsustainable agricultural expansion.
Fragmentation of habitats and loss of native plant
species threaten the ecosystem stability. It can also
reduce the availability of medicinal and economically
valuable plants. Tackling these challenges requires
continued promotion of large-scale afforestation and
reforestation programmes focusing on the native
species to restore degraded landscapes. The
Government is continuing to mobilise resources for
afforestation, conservation and sustainable
management through various central and state
schemes.
Rapid urban expansion and intensive agriculture
exert heavy pressure on forests and land resources,
leading to soil degradation, desertification and loss of
ecosystem services. This threatens both biodiversity
and the livelihoods dependent on these ecosystems.
Adoption of sustainable land-use planning that
balances development with conservation priorities,
and agroforestry and sustainable agricultural
practices that enhance soil health and biodiversity
should be promoted.
Many animal species in India are endangered due to
habitat loss, poaching, human-wildlife conflict and
climate change. There is a need to expand and
effectively manage protected areas and wildlife
corridors to ensure habitat connectivity. India is
creating and strengthening wildlife corridors to
facilitate wildlife movement, maintain genetic diversity
B O E J N Q S P W F I B C J U B U D P O O F D U J W J U Z ø ' V S U I F S M F H B M
frameworks in India are evolving to provide more
robust protection and management for these areas.
By integrating conservation efforts with community
participation and sustainable policies, India continues
to pave the way for a greener, healthier and more
prosperous future.
J … n ÏÓ r n X I 0 … z n z (
162
16
GOAL
Peace, Justice and
Strong Institutions
SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions) aims
to promote peaceful and inclusive societies, provide
access to justice for all and build effective,
accountable and inclusive institutions at all levels. It
seeks to address the most significant and destructive
challenges to development, growth and well-being:
violence and armed conflict. The global sustainable
development agenda for 2030 promotes transparent
and effective local governance and judicial systems,
reducing crime and sexual and gender-based
violence, tackling homicide and trafficking cases and
ending violations of children’s rights. SDG 16
addresses the challenges of violence at all
levels—individual, relationship, community and
societal.
The Indian Constitution deeply embeds the spirit of
democracy, justice, liberty and equality in
governance of the country. Legislation such as The
Right to Information Act, Lok Pal and Lok Ayukta Act
and Whistle Blowers Protection Act further reinforce
these principles. Additionally, more than 90% of
citizens are covered under the unique identity system
Aadhar. The constitutional framework of the country
ensures political participation of vulnerable groups.
PROVIDING LEGAL
IDENTITY FOR ALL
Aadhaar, India's 12-digit unique identification
number, has reshaped the nation's approach to
identity verification and service delivery since its
inception in 2009. The programme was launched with
a mission to provide every resident with a reliable,
digitally verifiable identity using minimal demographic
and biometric data. Aadhaar's robust authentication
framework addresses long-standing issues of
identity-related