Chennai, July 13 (Representative) In a significant milestone, Tamil Nadu has made remarkable progress in achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as it jumped to third spot in the SDG IndiaIndex-2024. NITI Aayog has unveiled the SDG India Index 2023-24, highlighting the commendable stridesmade by India towards achieving the SDGs, with Tamil Nadu emerging as a frontrunner in thisindex, reflecting the state’s dedicated efforts and comprehensive policies aimed at sustainabledevelopment. The composite score for Tamil Nadu has increased to 78 in the latest edition, a remarkable risefrom 66 in 2018, according to an official release here. This upward trajectory places the state among the top performers across the nation, underscoringits commitment to social equity, economic growth, and environmental sustainability. Among the key highlights of progress included Decent Work and Economic Growth (Goal 8) inwhich Tamil Nadu has sustained its leadership in trade and industrial sectors, implementing effective policies that enhance economic opportunities and promote sustainable livelihoods. The state government has initiated various skill development programs, fostering entrepreneurshipand supporting job creation.
In the Good Health and Well-being (Goal 3), the state’s health initiatives have shown substantial results, with a reported institutional delivery rate of 97.18% in 2023-24. This achievement is attributed to enhanced healthcare infrastructure and community health programs that prioritize maternal and child health, ensuring access to quality healthcare for all citizens. On Life on Land (Goal 15), Tamil Nadu has prioritized environmental sustainability, with nearly 25%of its geographical area designated as forest cover. This initiative not only contributes to biodiversity conservation, but also plays a vital role in combating climate change through carbon sequestration and promoting ecological balance. The Tamil Nadu government has rolled out several flagship initiatives aimed at accelerating progress on the SDGs that has driven this change. They included PMAY (Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana)–targeting the construction of 4 million affordable housing units to ensure shelter for all citizens.
Ayushman Bharat-PMJAY–Providing health insurance to over 300 million beneficiaries, enhancing access to essential health services.Swachh Bharat Abhiyan–Facilitating the construction of 11 million toilets, thereby improving sanitation and hygiene across urban and rural areas. On State’s performance and future commitments, the SDG India Index 2023-24 reports Tamil Nadu as one of the 32 states and union territories achieving front runner status. This success reflects the state’s integrated approach towards sustainable development, fostering collaborative efforts across various sectors. Looking ahead, the Tamil Nadu government is committed to deepening its partnership with NITI Aayog in the localization and implementation of SDGs.The aim is to create a holistic framework that aligns developmental goals with community needs, paving the way for a prosperous and sustainable Tamil Nadu by 2047.