Sustainable Development Goal 9 (SDG 9) focuses on building resilient infrastructure, promoting inclusive and sustainable industrialization, and fostering innovation. This goal recognizes the crucial role of infrastructure and industrialization in driving economic growth, reducing inequalities, and enabling the transition towards more sustainable practices. India, as one of the world's fastest-growing economies, has taken significant steps to achieve SDG 9 through various initiatives, plans, and programs.
SDG 9 in India: Current Position and Statistics
SDG India Index by NITI Aayog provides a snapshot of India's progress, challenges, and goals in the context of Sustainable Development Goal 9 as follows:
1. Road Connectivity (PMGSY): Close to 98% of targeted habitations in India have been covered by all-weather roads under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY).
2. Manufacturing Sector's Contribution: The manufacturing sector contributes 16.1% to India's Gross Value Added (GVA). In 2018-19, 12.07% of India's total workforce was engaged in the manufacturing sector, with Gujarat having the highest share at 20.8%.
3. Innovation Ranking: India has made significant strides in the Global Innovation Index (GII) 2022, moving up to the 40th position out of 132 countries. This marks a notable improvement from its 46th position in 2021 and a substantial leap from its 81st rank in 2015. Moreover, India is leading the world in ICT services exports.
4. Logistics Performance: India's logistics performance has witnessed significant improvement, with a six-place leap to the 38th position out of 139 countries in the World Bank's Logistics Performance Index 2023.
5. Internet and Mobile Connectivity: Currently, 84 out of 100 people in India have a mobile connection, while only 55 out of 100 have internet subscriptions.
6. Challenges in Industrial Sector: India's material intensity is six times that of Germany's, and many sectors consume 25% to 100% more energy than global best practices.
7. Research and Development (R&D) Spending: India's R&D spending as a percentage of GDP has remained stagnant at 0.6% to 0.7% over the last two decades, falling behind leading countries.
8. Ease of Doing Business: India improved its rank from 77 in 2018 to 63 in 2019, marking an impressive advancement of 79 ranks over the past five years from the rank of 142 in 2014.
Key Plans, Programs, and Schemes
1. Make in India: Launched in 2014, this initiative aims to promote domestic manufacturing and attract foreign investment. It encourages innovation and technology adoption, contributing to SDG 9's objectives.
2. Smart Cities Mission: This program focuses on creating sustainable urban centers by investing in infrastructure, technology, and services. It aims to enhance the quality of life for urban residents while addressing environmental concerns.
3. National Infrastructure Pipeline (NIP): India's NIP envisions substantial investments in various sectors, including energy, transportation, and telecommunications. This initiative supports infrastructure growth and aligns with SDG 9's targets.
4. Digital India: By promoting digital literacy and expanding digital infrastructure, India's Digital India program supports technological advancement, fostering innovation and economic growth.
5. Atal Innovation Mission: This initiative encourages research, innovation, and entrepreneurship among students and startups. It aims to create an ecosystem of innovation and invention across the country.
6. Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY): This housing scheme ensures access to affordable housing for all citizens, contributing to SDG 9's call for inclusive and sustainable urbanization.
7. BharatNet: The BharatNet project aims to provide high-speed broadband connectivity to rural areas, bridging the digital divide and enabling access to information and services.
8. National Logistics Policy: It aims to address high logistics costs, improve coordination, and boost efficiency in the transportation sector. With its focus on reducing logistics costs, embracing technology, and fostering competitiveness, the policy is expected to stimulate infrastructure development, expand business opportunities, and create more employment prospects, ultimately contributing to India's economic growth and global competitiveness.
Challenges and Future Outlook
While India has made strides toward achieving SDG 9, several challenges persist. These include inadequate infrastructure in certain regions, disparities in industrial growth, and the need for increased investment in research and development. To further its progress, India must focus on sustainable practices, harness technology for innovation, and ensure the inclusivity of its developmental initiatives.
Conclusion
India's commitment to SDG 9 demonstrates its dedication to balanced economic growth, innovation, and sustainable development. Through initiatives like Make in India, Smart Cities Mission, and various other schemes, the country is taking significant steps toward achieving the targets set under SDG 9. Continued investment, innovation, and collaboration will be essential in realizing India's vision of a resilient and sustainable industrialized future.
The data presented is based on the reports provided and may have undergone changes since the time of their publication.
Source: The Global Goals | PMINDIA | PIB | SDG India Index(2019-20) | SDG India Index(2020-21) | PIB
Note for UPSC Aspirants: For UPSC aspirants interested in exploring further, here are some keywords to guide your research: Sustainable Development Goals, Global Innovation Index, Logistics Performance Index, National Infrastructure Pipeline (NIP), Ease of Doing Business, WIPO, Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY).
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