Subject: Economy

According to NITI Aayog, inclusive growth is a development paradigm that aims to create opportunities for all sections while ensuring environmental sustainability. The recent improvement in India's SDG Index score from 66 in 2020-21 to 71 in 2023-24 demonstrates the effectiveness of this dual approach.

Inclusive Growth and Sustainability Linkages

Economic Dimension

• Poverty Reduction: Nearly halving of multidimensional poverty between 2015-16 and 2019-21 through targeted interventions like MGNREGA ensures economic inclusiveness.
• Employment Generation: Programs like PM Internship Scheme focus on skill development and youth employability, creating sustainable livelihood opportunities.
• Financial Inclusion: Initiatives like Jan Dhan Yojana and Direct Benefit Transfers ensure equitable access to financial services and social security benefits.

Social Dimension

• Healthcare Access: Focus on mental health and universal healthcare through Ayushman Bharat promotes social inclusiveness.
• Education Equity: Emphasis on quality education and skill development reduces socio-economic disparities.
• Gender Empowerment: Increasing female workforce participation through targeted initiatives ensures inclusive growth.

Environmental Dimension

• Green Employment: MGNREGA projects focus on water conservation and eco-friendly infrastructure development.
• Climate Action: Significant progress in SDG Goal 13 (Climate Action) shows commitment to environmental sustainability.
• Resource Conservation: Integration of traditional knowledge with modern practices ensures sustainable resource utilization.

Synergies Between Inclusiveness and Sustainability

• Double Dividend: Environmental projects create employment opportunities while preserving natural resources.
• Rural Development: Programs like MGNREGA simultaneously address poverty and environmental concerns through sustainable agriculture practices.
• Technology Integration: Digital inclusion initiatives reduce resource consumption while expanding access to services.

The success of India's inclusive growth strategy is evident in the progress across multiple SDGs, including poverty reduction (Goal 1), decent work (Goal 8), and life on land (Goal 15). However, continued focus on balancing economic growth with social equity and environmental protection remains crucial for achieving sustainable development goals.