Sustainable Development
Sustainable development signifies a delicate balance between the present necessities and safeguarding the prospects of the future. The essence of sustainable development lies in the harmony of economic progress, social inclusiveness, and environmental preservation. These interwoven aspects collectively nurture the well-being of individuals and societies.
Achieving sustainable development on a global scale necessitates a comprehensive and collaborative approach. This entails embracing policies that foster economic growth while upholding social equity and environmental preservation. Promoting inclusive economic progress ensures that benefits are widespread, that reduce disparities and offer opportunities to marginalised communities. Environmental stewardship plays a pivotal role in responsible use and protection of the natural environmental through responsible and sustainable land use, conservation efforts, and effective management of resources like water and forests.
Transitioning to clean and renewable energy sources is crucial to mitigating climate change, supported by investments in sustainable technologies. Equally important is access to quality education, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their lives and surroundings. Health and well-being, gender equality, responsible consumption, and production, and global partnerships all contribute significantly to the sustainable development agenda. Technological innovation, community engagement, and advocacy for awareness play integral roles in driving change. Collecting data and monitoring progress ensure accountability and guide future actions. Ultimately, by integrating these strategies into policies, practices, and daily routines, the world can collectively work towards a sustainable future that serves both present and future generations.
Rooted in its rich cultural heritage and ethos, India’s relationship with sustainable development transcends ages. Throughout its history, Indian communities have practiced principles of conservation, harmony with nature, and balanced living. These values, deeply engrained in various cultures and traditions across the country, have laid the foundation for India’s modern approach to sustainable development. From ancient times, practices such as water conservation, organic farming, and respectful coexistence with the environment have been part of Indian society and culture. Traditional wisdom has emphasized the interconnectedness of all life forms and the need for responsible stewardship of natural resources.
India, as a rapidly developing nation with a large population, faces unique challenges and opportunities in its pursuit of sustainable development. India’s commitment to sustainable development is evident in its policy framework, with initiatives like the National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC) and the adoption of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These initiatives reflect India’s dedication to addressing climate change, promoting social equity, ensuring economic growth, and conserving natural resources.
India’s economic growth is intricately linked to its sustainable development trajectory. The country’s efforts to expand industries, infrastructure, and urbanization needs to be balanced with environmental conservation and social inclusivity. The adoption of renewable energy sources and the promotion of green technologies are vital for mitigating environmental degradation.
The social dimension of sustainable development is another critical facet. India strives to eradicate poverty and ensure equitable access to education, healthcare, and basic services for all citizens. Initiatives like Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, which focuses on sanitation and hygiene, align with the goals of sustainable development, as they improve public health and living conditions.
“The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) warns that without more robust policies across all sectors, the world is likely to surpass the critical 1.5°C tipping point by 2035.”
In the realm of Empowered and Resilient India, the transformative power of economic growth and empowerment shines through. Remarkably, India has uplifted more than 271 million individuals from multi-dimensional poverty (135.5 million between 2015-16 and 2019-21). This has been achieved due to government’s focus to sanitation, nutrition, clean cooking fuel, financial inclusion, drinking water access, electricity provision to each household, healthcare, education to housing, resulting in reduced inequalities, especially among the marginalized.
Clean and Healthy India unveils a nation committed to well-being of all its citizens. A nation-wide thrust via initiatives like the Clean India Campaign and the National Nutrition Mission has propelled India to attain 100% rural sanitation. Simultaneously, substantial strides in reducing stunting and maternal-child mortality rates speak of a healthier populace. This journey is further bolstered by universal health coverage through Ayushmaan Bharat, the world’s largest health protection scheme.
Inclusive and Entrepreneurial India embodies India’s unwavering drive towards equity. Universally accessible nutrition, health, education, and social protection bear testimony to this inclusive vision. Empowering capabilities for entrepreneurship and employment, backed by the Jan Dhan-Aadhaar-Mobile (JAM) trinity, have ushered in unprecedented financial inclusion, touching the lives of millions, particularly women.
A Sustainable India is India’s commitment to environmental stewardship. Strategies encompass clean energy systems, resilient infrastructure, and eco-restoration endeavors. The electrification of all villages, significant CO2 emission reduction through energy efficiency, and provisions of clean cooking fuel to millions underscore India’s climate commitments. Ambitious goals for renewable energy and land restoration propel India onto the global stage of sustainability leadership.
This journey is characterised by partnerships and global outreach. As India takes proactive steps to support fellow developing nations through the India-UN Development Partnership Fund, it embarks on the Decade of Action with the resolute determination to ‘leave no one behind’. Collaborating with domestic and international stakeholders, India stands committed to driving sustainable development, ensuring a promising legacy for future generations. Sankala Foundation envisions a holistic approach to sustainable development, encompassing various key domains. Our initiatives include community engagement through education, workshops, and awareness campaigns to promote informed decisions. Our focus areas include rural sanitation and clean water access, aligning with SDG 6, while emphasising renewable energy adoption and climate-resilient infrastructure to combat climate change. Our initiatives on policies include economic empowerment and livelihoods that will merge with ecosystem restoration and biodiversity conservation to nurture a balanced planet. We champion innovation and technology for solutions in agriculture, waste management, and water purification. Collaborations with diverse stakeholders, policy advocacy, and youth empowerment underscore our commitment. Research and data analysis by Sankala Foundation will push evidence-based actions. Through these comprehensive strategies, Sankala Foundation is committed to contribute towards a sustainable future.
