Smart City Foundation

Sustainable Development Goal 1

Eradicating Poverty: A Global and Indian Perspective on SDG 1Eradicating Poverty SDG 1

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by

Shuhool Fotedar
in

The Sustainable Development Goal 1 (SDG 1) aims to “end poverty in all its forms everywhere” by 2030. This ambitious goal requires concerted efforts from all nations, and some countries are leading the way in terms of achievement.

Top 5 Ranking Countries in SDG 1 (2023):

  1. Finland (86.76)
  2. Sweden (85.98)
  3. Denmark (85.68)
  4. Germany (83.36)
  5. Austria (82.28)

These countries have made significant progress in reducing poverty, with low national poverty rates and robust social safety nets. Their success can be attributed to various factors, including strong economies, progressive taxation policies, and investments in education and healthcare.

India’s Achievement Compared to the Top 5:

India currently ranks 122nd in the SDG 1 index with a score of 66.49. While the country has made considerable progress in recent years, it still faces significant challenges in eradicating poverty. The national poverty rate remains high, and millions of people live on less than $1.90 per day.

Areas of Focus for India’s SDG 1 Progress:

  • Social Safety Nets: Expanding and strengthening social safety nets to provide income support to the poorest and most vulnerable populations.
  • Rural Development: Investing in rural areas to create jobs, improve access to basic services like education and healthcare, and promote sustainable agriculture.
  • Education and Skills Development: Ensuring access to quality education and skills training for all, especially marginalized communities, to improve employability and income potential.
  • Financial Inclusion: Expanding access to financial services like microfinance and mobile banking to empower individuals and businesses.
  • Gender Equality: Addressing gender inequalities that contribute to poverty, such as unequal access to education and economic opportunities.

Data Sources:

By addressing these areas, India can make significant strides towards achieving SDG 1 and eliminating poverty within its borders. The journey will require unwavering commitment, effective policy implementation, and collaboration between the government, civil society, and private sector.