India’s SDG Index Rises to 71: State Spending vs Progress
Why in the news
A review of SDG performance shows national progress, but several States slipped on key goals even where budget allocations were high.
Key facts
- SDG index: 57 (2018) to 71 (2023-24); States gained five units on average.
- Leaders: Kerala and Uttarakhand, with eight goals each above 80%.
- Declines in nine or more States: Goal 16 (Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions), Goal 10 (Reduced Inequality), Goal 5 (Gender Equality) and Goal 1 (No Poverty).
| State | Goal | Spending share | Score change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Odisha | Goal 4, Quality Education | 16.4% | Down 5 points |
| Meghalaya | Goal 1, No Poverty | 12.8% | Down 14 points |
| Haryana | Goal 16 | 12.2% | Down 4 points |
Concerns
- Spending and outcomes do not match.
- Data and measurement frameworks are weak.
- Goals can trade off against each other; governance in delivery needs improvement.
Way forward
- Make spending translate into results.
- Improve data collection and model synergies and trade-offs.
- Raise accountability in planning and implementation.
Exam angle
- Index scores: 57 to 71.
- Top States: Kerala, Uttarakhand.