The third edition of the SDG India Index and Dashboard 2020–21 was released by NITI Aayog.

SDG India Index

• The index measures the progress at the national and sub-national level in the country’s journey towards meeting the Global Goals and targets.
• It has been successful as an advocacy tool to propagate the messages of sustainability, resilience, and partnerships, as well.
• From covering 13 Goals, 39 targets, and 62 indicators in the first edition in 2018-19 to 17 Goals, 54 targets and 100 indicators in the second; this third edition of the index covers 17 Goals, 70 targets, and 115 indicators.

Aims and objectives

• The construction of the index and the ensuing methodology embodies the central objectives of measuring the performance of States and UTs on the SDGs and ranking them.
• It aims at supporting States and UTs in identifying areas which require more attention; and promoting healthy competition among them.

Methodology and Process

• The index estimation is based on data on indicators for the first 16 goals, with a qualitative assessment for Goal 17.
• The technical process of target setting and normalization of scores follow the globally established methodology.
• While target setting enables the measurement of the distance from the target for each indicator, the process of normalization of positive and negative indicators allows for comparability and estimation of goal-wise scores.
• The composite score of a State is derived by assigning each goal the same weight, keeping in mind the indivisible nature of the 2030 Agenda.
• The selection of indicators is preceded by a consultative process undertaken in close coordination with MoSPI, Union Ministries and stakeholders from States and UTs.

Highlights of the 2021 Report

States and Union Territories are classified as below based on their SDG India Index score:

• Aspirant: 0–49
• Performer: 50–64
• Front-Runner: 65–99
• Achiever: 100

Its significance

• The index represents the articulation of the comprehensive nature of the Global Goals under the 2030 Agenda while being attuned to the national priorities.
• The modular nature of the index has become a policy tool and a ready reckoner for gauging the progress of States and UTs on the nature of goals including health, education, gender, economic growth and climate change and the environment.

Back2Basics: Sustainable Development Goals

• The UN General Assembly in its 70^thSession considered and adopted the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for the next 15 years.
• The 17 SDGs came into force with effect from 1st January 2016.
• Though not legally binding, the SDGs have become de facto international obligations and have the potential to reorient domestic spending priorities of the countries during the next fifteen years.
• Countries are expected to take ownership and establish a national framework for achieving these goals.
• Implementation and success will rely on countries’ own sustainable development policies, plans, and programs.

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