Exploration of urban sustainability of India through the lens of sustainable development goals

Abstract

Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) index is a recognized metric for measuring progress in the UN SDGs. However, national or multinational-level analyses are more prevalent than sub-national types. We analysed the performance of 14 SDGs for 56 Indian cities (grouped into 6 regions) with available 77 indicators (2020–2021). Pearson’s correlation, hierarchical clustering, data envelopment analysis etc. were used to infer existing status, interactions, efficiency, and interrelationships. Finally, we offer policy suggestions coupled with limitations to mitigate the drawbacks of the Indian city SDG framework. The findings reveal the asynchronous nature of SDGs. 18% of Indian cities register a poor track record of converting environmental performance into socioeconomic prosperity while 55% of cities are lagging in performance than respective states. A significant degree of inequality reigns among cities of various regions towards achieving SDGs. In a race to be economically powerful, the environment is being adversely affected. So, mainstreaming the environment into development planning is urgently warranted.