India’s Key Role in Achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
India’s Key Role in Achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).In a recent address at the UN Global Compact Network India’s (UNGCNI’s) 18th National Convention, Shri Hardeep Singh Puri, Minister of Petroleum & Natural Gas and Housing & Urban Affairs, underscored the pivotal role of India in driving the success of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Here are the key highlights from his speech.
India’s Key Role in Achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
India’s Significance on the Global Stage
- Shri Hardeep Singh Puri emphasized that India’s success is intertwined with the success of the SDGs. As the world’s most populous nation with the fifth-largest and fastest-growing economy, India’s outcomes significantly impact global outcomes.
UNGCNI’s 18th National Convention
- The Minister inaugurated the UNGCNI’s 18th National Convention, held under the theme “Advancing Sustainable India: Driving Change with Forward Faster 2030.” Dignitaries including Mr. Arun Kumar Singh, President, UN GCNI, and Ms. Isabelle Tschan (Shan), Resident Representative, UNDP India, graced the event.
India’s Progress in Achieving SDGs
- India has made remarkable strides in the past decade, with over 250 million people lifted out of multidimensional poverty. Missions like Swachh Bharat and AMRUT have transformed the water and sanitation landscape, making the nation open defecation-free.
India’s Approach to Sustainable Development
- Despite global challenges, India’s approach to sustainable development shines brightly. The nation has addressed issues of clean water and sanitation effectively, surpassing many parts of the world in this regard.
Government’s Efforts for Women’s Empowerment
- Shri Puri highlighted the government’s focus on women empowerment, with a shift towards women-led schemes. He cited the Women’s Reservation Bill introduced to ensure equitable participation in political processes.
Progress on Sustainability Targets
- India has shown impressive progress in achieving sustainability targets, particularly in areas like ethanol blending and emerging technologies such as battery energy storage systems and e-mobility. The nation is on track to achieve its net zero target by 2070.
Role of the Private Sector
- The Minister recognized the role of the private sector in advancing SDGs. Combining purpose with profit can create a unique competitive advantage, as reputations of businesses are increasingly linked to their commitment to SDGs.
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)
- While impactful CSR initiatives contribute to the SDG agenda, Shri Puri stressed the need for sustainability to be integrated into core business operations. He cited ONGC’s example, which reduced emissions through sustainable practices.
Conclusion
- In conclusion, Shri Hardeep Singh Puri reiterated India’s commitment to sustainable development, guided by international agreements and collaborative efforts facilitated by organizations like UNGCNI.
