India’s Progress in Sustainable Infrastructure Development and SDG 9

Building resilient infrastructure plays a pivotal role in shaping the sustainable development landscape in an era defined by rapid urbanization, technological advancements, and interconnectedness. The Sustainable Development Goal 9 (SDG 9), recognized by the United Nations, charts a path toward sustainable industrialization, innovation, and infrastructure for inclusive and sustainable growth. SDG 9 aims to unlock vast opportunities for economic development, social inclusion, and environmental sustainability worldwide by addressing critical infrastructure gaps and promoting technological advancements.

SDG 9 acknowledges the need for comprehensive infrastructure development that fosters economic growth and ensures environmental sustainability, social inclusivity, and resilience to future challenges. Therefore, SDG 9 serves as a linchpin for achieving several other SDGs. Furthermore, the interconnectedness of SDG 9 with other goals highlights its critical role in driving comprehensive and holistic development. For instance, access to reliable and sustainable infrastructure is essential for achieving SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) by ensuring renewable energy’s efficient transmission and distribution.

Similarly, SDG 9 contributes to SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) by fostering inclusive industrialization, promoting job creation, and supporting sustainable economic activities. Moreover, SDG 9 is crucial in advancing SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) by facilitating the development of resilient and inclusive urban infrastructure. Thus, the success of numerous SDGs is intricately intertwined with the progress and implementation of SDG 9, emphasizing its pivotal position in the global sustainable development agenda.

Targets of SDG 9

• Develop quality, reliable and resilient infrastructure.
• Promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization and, by 2030, significantly raise the industry’s share of employment.
• Increase the access of small-scale industries and other enterprises.
• Facilitate resilient and sustainable infrastructure development in developing countries.

India’s progress in achieving SDG 9 goal

India has emerged as a leading force in advancing SDG 9 through its remarkable strides in creating essential infrastructure to foster economic growth. The country has witnessed significant progress in developing national highways and roads, with construction increasing from 4,410 km in 2014-15 to an impressive 10,824 km in 2018-19. Moreover, India’s ambitious industrial corridor project, with an estimated expenditure of US$90 billion, is a testament to its commitment to sustainable infrastructure development.

This high-tech industrial zone spanning six states is poised to become a thriving hub for trade and commerce. Creating industrial hotspots throughout the nation. These efforts have not gone unnoticed, as India’s remarkable achievements have propelled it from 142nd to 63rd place in the World Bank’s Ease of Doing Business ranking over the past five years. This signifies India’s unwavering commitment to fostering a business-friendly environment supported by robust infrastructure, making it a key contributor to the realization of SDG 9.

CSR initiatives to achieve SDG9

1. Investment in renewable energy and sustainable infrastructure

• Tata Power (Energy) is actively investing in renewable energy projects with the aim of generating 30-40% of its energy output from renewable sources by 2025. Through partnerships with government agencies and other corporations, Tata Power promotes the adoption of renewable energy across India.
• Godrej Industries (Chemicals) has adopted a sustainability framework, incorporating initiatives like using renewable energy sources, promoting electric vehicles, and adopting sustainable packaging practices in its manufacturing processes.

2. Promotion of local industries and technology transfer

• Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL) (FMCG) has been promoting local industries and inclusive supply chains. The company has been sourcing raw materials such as tea, coffee, and spices from small farmers in India, promoting local agriculture and contributing to the development of rural communities.
• Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) (IT) has been promoting research in emerging technologies and supporting start-ups and SMEs in these sectors. TCS has collaborated with Indian universities to encourage research in emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and machine learning.

      3. Promotion of innovation and entrepreneurship

• Marico Innovation Foundation, established by Marico (FMCG), provides seed funding and mentorship to start-ups in the field of innovation, fostering an ecosystem of creativity and sustainable development.
• Mahindra & Mahindra (Automobile) has established the Mahindra Innovation Academy to foster innovation and entrepreneurship in emerging sectors like electric mobility and clean energy.

India’s relentless pursuit of sustainable industrialization, innovation, and infrastructure development underscores its commitment to achieving SDG 9 and fostering inclusive and sustainable growth. With notable progress, India is positioning itself as a global leader in infrastructure development. Additionally, CSR initiatives by corporations exemplify the private sector’s active role in fostering innovation and entrepreneurship. As India continues to build resilient infrastructure and embrace sustainable practices, it paves the way for a prosperous future, contributing not only to the achievement of SDG 9 but also to the broader vision of a sustainable and inclusive world.

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