India is in Top 100 Historic SDG Ranking
Ankita
. 3 min read
In a historic leap forward, India has entered the top 100 in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Index for the first time, securing 99th place out of 193 countries with an overall score of 67, according to the 2025 Sustainable Development Report published by the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN).
A Regional and Global Comparison
India’s 67-point score places it behind China (49th, 74.4) and the United States (44th, 75.2), but ahead of many regional peers.
Within South Asia, the Maldives (53rd) and Bhutan (74th, 70.5) outperform India, while Nepal (85th, 68.6), Sri Lanka (93rd), Bangladesh (114th), and Pakistan (140th) trail behind.
Europe dominates the top rankings, with Finland, Sweden, and Denmark occupying the top three positions.
What does this represent about India?
1. First-Time Breakthrough
Indian policymakers have long aimed for a place among the sustainable development elite. The jump into the top 100 for the first time is a significant validation of progress.
2. Strong Momentum Since 2015
East and South Asian countries India included have registered steady improvements since the adoption of the SDGs in 2015, outpacing many regions.
3. Global Hurdles Persist
Despite India’s rise, the global outlook is sobering: just 16.7% of SDG targets are currently on track to be met by 2030.
Areas of Progress and Concerns
The report shows clear strengths for India in expanding access to electricity, clean water, sanitation, enhanced broadband, and neonatal mortality reduction.
However, significant issues remain unresolved:
Zero Hunger (SDG 2), where malnutrition and nitrogen management lag behind.
Life Below Water/Life on Land (SDGs 14 & 15), biodiversity, and environmental health require urgent attention.
Peace, Justice & Strong Institutions (SDG 16) continued challenges in corruption and press freedom.
Why is it beneficial for India?
India's entry into the top 100 in the global Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) rankings is highly beneficial for the country in multiple ways. Here’s why this is significant:
International Recognition and Credibility
It positions India as a global leader in sustainable development, earning respect on international platforms like the UN and G20.
Enhances India's reputation as a responsible and progressive nation committed to achieving the 2030 Agenda.
Boosts Global Investment and Partnerships
Countries with strong SDG performance attract more foreign direct investment (FDI) and climate finance.
It opens doors to global funding, technical assistance, and collaborations in sectors like renewable energy, healthcare, education, and infrastructure.
Strengthens the Economy and Job Creation
Focus on clean energy, sustainable cities, and infrastructure leads to green jobs and inclusive economic growth.
Better education and health (SDGs 3 & 4) create a more productive and capable workforce.
Improved Quality of Life for Citizens
Success in the SDGs means less poverty, cleaner water, better healthcare, gender equality, and sustainable agriculture.
Benefits reach both rural and urban areas, ensuring inclusive growth and reducing inequality.
Better Prepared for Global Crises
Strong SDG performance enhances climate resilience, disaster preparedness, and public health responses, which are critical in times of pandemics, economic shocks, or environmental disasters.
Guides Policy and Governance
SDG progress offers a data-driven framework to guide national and state-level policymaking.
Encourages transparency, decentralization, and accountability across sectors and ministries.
Key challenges for India
India’s progress in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) is commendable, but multiple challenges lie ahead that could slow or stall its momentum toward the 2030 targets.
1. Persistent Gender Inequality
2. Widening Economic Inequality
3. Environmental Degradation
4. Data Gaps and Monitoring Limitations
5. Health and Education Service qualities
6. Urban Challenges
7. Financing for Development
8. Institutional and Governance Issues
9. Population Pressure
10. Global Uncertainties
Conclusion
India’s entry into the top 100 SDG rankings is a strategic milestone that can catalyze growth, inclusion, sustainability, and global influence. India will be able to set the standard for striking a balance between development and social and environmental responsibility if it continues to make progress.
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