SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

Meaning of Development
Development refers to a long-term process where human capabilities expand to solve problems, adapt to changes, create new opportunities, and achieve higher goals.

SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT
Sustainable development means meeting present needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. It balances economic development, social inclusion, and environmental protection.

NEED FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

• Economic Growth – stable income, productive employment
• Social Inclusion – equality, healthcare, education
• Environmental Protection – responsible use of natural resources

DIMENSIONS OF SUSTAINABILITY

• Environmental Sustainability – protects ecosystems, promotes renewable energy, maintains ecological balance
• Social Sustainability – gender equality, community well-being, fair access to opportunities
• Economic Sustainability – efficient resource use, stable economic systems, equal growth

BENEFITS OF SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT (SDGs)

• 17 SDGs include: No Poverty, Zero Hunger, Good Health, Quality Education, Gender Equality, Clean Water, Clean Energy, Economic Growth, Innovation, Reduced Inequality, Sustainable Cities, Responsible Consumption, Climate Action, Life Below Water, Life on Land, Peace & Justice, Global Partnerships

SDG INDIA INDEX (NITI AAYOG)

• Tracks national and state progress on SDGs.
• India’s score improved from 60 (2019) to 66 (2020–21).
• Top states: Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Himachal Pradesh
• Bottom states: Bihar, Jharkhand, Assam

CHALLENGES IN ACHIEVING SDGs

• Weak scheme implementation
• Lack of reliable data
• Deep-rooted social practices
• Low spending on health & education
• Funding shortage
• Global protectionism

HOW TO ACHIEVE SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

• Human capacity building: education, healthcare
• Circular economy: recycling, efficient use of resources
• Decarbonization and renewable energy expansion
• Sustainable farming and water management
• Smart city development
• Use of digital technology

BEST PRACTICES

• Safe water access
• Efficient energy and waste systems
• Clean environment
• Green public spaces
• Strong governance

INDIA’S SDG COMMITMENTS

• Shift to BS-VI fuel
• International Solar Alliance goal: 1000 GW solar by 2030
• Reduce emissions intensity of GDP by 33–35% by 2030
• 40% power capacity from non-fossil resources
• 2.5–3 billion tonnes CO2 additional carbon sink
• Eliminate single-use plastic

Conclusion
Sustainable development is essential for India’s long-term economic progress, environmental conservation, and social equality.

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Subject: Environment

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