Sustainable Development in the Indian Context

In this time of globalisation, people are now focusing on developing a safer and more beautiful world for the future generation, demanding sustainable development. Sustainable development is a concept that has been developed to fulfil the current needs without harming the future ability.

This is a critical issue of the present time. Due to regular changes in climate, economics, culture, and society, the world environment is getting affected severely. Therefore, all the countries should focus on sustainable development that prevents further adverse effects on the environment. Our future generation is affected drastically by environmental pollution. So, if the countries fail to maintain sustainability, it may destroy the future world.

Concept Of Sustainable Development 

This term was first introduced in 1987 in the “Brundtland Commission Report” by WCED. Sustainability and sustainable development are not the same. Sustainability is a long-term vision of commitment or goals, while the process or way to achieve those goals is known as sustainable development.  

Sustainability is a multidimensional concept, and it often describes the concept of sustainable development through 4 pillars. The four pillars of this concept are society, culture, environment, and economy.

Society

Socially sustainable development is related to people and society. It is a concept that describes equal human rights and improved living conditions. In another aspect, social sustainability development refers to healthier and livable lifestyle development. It may include aspects related to wellness, community empowerment, health, and safety. 

Environment

Environmental sustainability is a concept that is most popular in sustainable development. When natural resources and capital get protected and preserved, it is called environmental sustainability development. It includes soil, water, fuel, and other natural resources. In order to maintain the long-term stability of these resources and the environment, environmental sustainability development is paramount. 

Economy 

It is the most straightforward concept to understand. This pillar focuses on utilising the resources and not over-exploiting them to generate profits. It helps to keep the capital stable and develop the economic aspects. 

Culture

Cultural sustainability is the new pillar of sustainable development. In 2010, culture was added as an essential pillar of the sustainability concept. It is the fourth pillar of sustainable development. 

Culture defines different values, aspirations, and beliefs of a community. This kind of development only occurs when all the other three aspects stay protected. Protecting culture and characteristics aims to develop the future generation holistically. 

Role of World Commission on Environment and Development in Sustainability 

WCED was constituted to elaborate on the necessity of sustainable development for the world. After 1987, sustainable development became a popular topic for politicians, planners, and practitioners. The report published by WCED described the concept of sustainable development through ecological sustainability. It also includes satisfying the basic needs of humans. These are the two primary dimensions of sustainable development. The first dimension defines that the origin of this idea is from ecological science. It was developed to sustain the ecosystem for a longer time. There are also various descriptions that show the necessity of this idea in the ecosystem. 

The second dimension describes the importance of satisfying human needs in sustainable development. In this report, the basic needs of humans meant energy, food, water supply, housing, health, and sanitation. It was opined by the report that basic human needs must be respected and fulfilled in order to achieve sustainable development. 

Requirements Of Sustainability In India’s Development 

Achieving economic development is an essential factor for a country. However, if it comes at the cost of the environment, then it can affect the overall outcome. Hence, India is developing its economic vision and target while maintaining its stand on protecting the comprehensive ecosystem. However, there are certain issues that pose a threat to the sustainable development of India. Some of those issues are:  

Environmental issues 

· Biodiversity loss

· Himalayan urbanisation

· Lack of waste management

· Resource depletion

· Air quality issues

· Environment degradation

· Hamper in the ecosystem

Economic issues

· low income per capita

· Dependency of huge population

· Heavy population

· Unemployment

· Slew improvement

· Lack of industries

· Poor human capital

Social issues

· Corruption

· Illiteracy

· Poverty

· Women’s safety

· Sanitisation

· Lack of education

· Healthcare issues

Cultural issues

· Caste system

· Gender inequality

· Communism

· Child abuse

These are the few issues India is trying to address with appropriate measures. 

Sustainable Goals

The sustainable development goals are also known as SDGs, which the United Nations adopted in 2015. This idea has been developed for protecting the planet, ending poverty, and ensuring that people enjoy prosperity and peace by 2030. There are 17 SDGs, and those goals are: 

GOAL 1: No Poverty

GOAL 2: Zero Hunger

GOAL 3: Good Health and Well-being

GOAL 4: Quality Education

GOAL 5: Gender Equality

GOAL 6: Clean Water and Sanitation

GOAL 7: Affordable and Clean Energy

GOAL 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth

GOAL 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure

GOAL 10: Reduced Inequality

GOAL 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities

GOAL 12: Responsible Consumption and Production

GOAL 13: Climate Action

GOAL 14: Life Below Water

GOAL 15: Life on Land

GOAL 16: Peace and Justice Strong Institutions

GOAL 17: Partnerships to achieve the Goal

India’s progress in sustainability  

India has taken various actions in order to achieve all 17 goals and sustain its development. Some of the proactive initiatives are the Swachch Bharat mission for sanitation and cleanliness; and the green skill development program, Namami Gange Program, CAMPA, and National Mission for Green India, for keeping the environment green. There are also national river conservation programs and schemes on the conservation of natural resources and ecosystems. 

India is taking significant actions to implement the approach of sustainable development. Since 2015, the Indian government has launched several effective and flagship programs to achieve the SDGs. Above all, India has always supported the idea of sustainable development by engaging various stakeholders. 

Conclusion 

Sustainable development in the Indian context is becoming popular, and India’s initiatives have encouraged many other countries as well. In a nutshell, the world is facing significant issues, which can be addressed only by developing sustainable ideas and programs.