Sustainable Development Goal 9 (SDG 9) aims to “build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization and foster innovation” by 2030. This encompasses various targets, including developing sustainable transportation systems, promoting access to information and communication technologies (ICT), and encouraging scientific research and innovation. Analyzing the progress made by different countries is crucial to assess the path forward.
Top 5 Countries Leading in SDG 9:
- Sweden (85.98): Boasts a well-developed infrastructure, including efficient transportation systems and high internet penetration. (Source: Sustainable Development Report 2023)
- Finland (86.76): Leads the world in innovation and technology, with strong focus on research and development. (Source: Sustainable Development Report 2023)
- Denmark (85.68): Prioritizes green infrastructure and sustainable industrial development, promoting circular economy principles. (Source: Sustainable Development Report 2023)
- Norway (85.08): Invests heavily in sustainable technology, including renewable energy and clean transportation solutions. (Source: Sustainable Development Report 2023)
- Switzerland (84.83): Maintains a strong industrial base and fosters innovation through collaboration between academia and industry. (Source: Sustainable Development Report 2023)
India’s Progress:
India’s SDG 9 score stands at 62.03, ranking it 115th globally. While significant strides have been made in developing infrastructure and promoting industrial growth, challenges remain in ensuring inclusivity, sustainability, and access to technology for all.
Key Achievements:
- Expanded national highways network by 50% in the last decade. (Source: Ministry of Road Transport and Highways)
- Increased internet penetration from 15% in 2015 to 60% in 2023. (Source: Statista)
- Launched flagship programs like Digital India and Make in India to boost innovation and industrial development. (Source: Government of India)
Areas for Improvement:
- Rural infrastructure remains inadequate, limiting access to basic services and hindering economic opportunities. (Source: NITI Aayog)
- Industrial growth is often concentrated in specific sectors and regions, exacerbating regional disparities. (Source: World Bank)
- Digital divide persists, with millions lacking access to affordable and reliable internet connectivity. (Source: Internet and Mobile Association of India)
What India Can Do:
- Invest in rural infrastructure development: Prioritize rural connectivity, electrification, and access to clean water and sanitation.
- Promote inclusive industrial development: Encourage small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and focus on sustainable, green industries.
- Bridge the digital divide: Implement programs to provide affordable internet access and digital literacy training in rural areas.
- Strengthen innovation and research: Invest in scientific research and development, particularly in sectors like clean energy, healthcare, and agriculture.
- Foster collaboration: Encourage partnerships between academia, industry, and government to drive innovation and accelerate progress towards SDG 9.
Source of Information:
- Sustainable Development Report 2023: https://dashboards.sdgindex.org/: https://dashboards.sdgindex.org/
- Ministry of Road Transport and Highways: https://morth.nic.in/: https://morth.nic.in/
- Statista: https://www.statista.com/: https://www.statista.com/
- Government of India: https://www.india.gov.in/: https://www.india.gov.in/
- NITI Aayog: https://niti.gov.in/: https://niti.gov.in/
- World Bank: https://www.worldbank.org/: https://www.worldbank.org/
- Internet and Mobile Association of India: https://www.iamai.in/: https://www.iamai.in/
By addressing these challenges and prioritizing inclusive, sustainable, and technology-driven infrastructure development, industrialization, and innovation, India can strive towards achieving SDG 9 and create a more resilient and prosperous future for all its citizens.