Sustainable Development Goal 11 (SDG 11) is a critical global objective that seeks to transform urban living across the world into inclusive, safe, and sustainable environments. India, as one of the world's most populous nations, is actively working towards achieving the targets set by SDG 11. Here's a closer look at India's progress, challenges, and initiatives.
Stats for India
A snapshot of India's progress and challenges in achieving urban development and sustainability:
With a population of over 1.4 billion people, India is now the world's most populous nation. According to the World Urbanization Prospects 2018, around 34% of India's population lived in urban areas as of 2018, and this number is projected to increase to 40% by 2030.
0.80 percent of urban households in India live in katcha houses.
In urban areas, there were 12 road accident-related deaths per 100,000 population in 2019. The target is to halve this number from the base year 2015.
Across India, 97 percent of wards have 100 percent door-to-door waste collection. As of November 2020, 78.03 percent of municipal wards in India have achieved 100 percent source segregation and 68.1 percent of municipal solid waste generated gets processed.
6.2 million individual household toilets have been constructed in urban India under the Swachh Bharat Mission (Urban).
87.6 percent of urban households in India have drainage facilities.
India has the capacity to treat only 39 percent of the total sewage generated in the country.
Plans, Programs, and Schemes
1. Smart Cities Mission: Launched in 2015, this flagship program envisions the development of 100 smart cities across the country. These cities are intended to leverage technology and innovation to improve infrastructure, services, and quality of life for residents.
2. Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY): This ambitious affordable housing scheme was launched in 2015 to provide housing for all by 2022. It focuses on urban and rural areas, aiming to reduce the housing shortage in India's cities.
3. Swachh Bharat Abhiyan: Also known as the Clean India Mission, this nationwide cleanliness campaign seeks to eliminate open defecation, improve solid waste management, and promote cleanliness in both urban and rural areas.
4. AMRUT: Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT) was initiated to improve infrastructure in urban areas, focusing on water supply, sanitation, and public transportation.
5. National Urban Transport Policy: This policy promotes sustainable and integrated urban mobility, aiming to provide efficient and accessible public transportation systems to reduce traffic congestion and pollution.
6. FAME: Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Hybrid and Electric Vehicles (FAME). It encourages the widespread adoption of electric and hybrid vehicles, along with the development of charging infrastructure, to mitigate urban pollution, improve air quality, and enhance sustainable transportation options in India's cities.
7. Green Building Councils: India has various green building councils that encourage sustainable construction practices and energy-efficient buildings. The Indian Green Building Council (IGBC) and the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) are actively involved in promoting these practices.
Challenges and Future Outlook
While India has made significant strides toward SDG 11, challenges remain. Rapid urbanization can strain resources and lead to environmental degradation. Balancing economic growth with sustainability is crucial. Adequate infrastructure, waste management, affordable housing, and clean water supply are persistent concerns.
As India continues its journey towards sustainable urban development, collaboration between government bodies, private sector stakeholders, and communities will play a pivotal role. By prioritizing efficient urban planning, embracing green technologies, and involving citizens in decision-making, India can work towards achieving the targets of SDG 11 and ensuring a better quality of life for its urban population.
The data presented is based on the reports provided and may have undergone changes since the time of their publication.
Note for UPSC Aspirants: For UPSC aspirants interested in exploring further, here are some keywords to guide your research: Sustainable Development Goals, Smart Cities, AMRUT, FAME, Renewable Energy, Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, Bureau of Energy Efficiency.
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