Welcome to the full Episode 2 of Sustainability Karma, India’s first and only talk show on sustainability on All India Radio.

In this episode of Sustainability Karma, Shombi Sharp, United Nations Resident Coordinator in India, talks about India’s success on reducing Multi-Dimensional Poverty (MDP), role in accelerating progress on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)  and the importance of the private sector in development journey..

Saying that India has made significant strides in reducing multi-dimensional poverty, he elaborates that 135 million people have been lifted out of poverty in the last five years. The country’s success aligns with a broader trend, with over 400 million lifted from poverty in the past 16 years.

Mr Sharp elaborates that the noteworthy aspect lies in the direct correlation between targeted government initiatives and this positive trend. Programmes addressing water and sanitation, clean cooking fuel, nutrition, electricity access, and financial inclusion, facilitated by digital public infrastructure, have played a crucial role. The collaboration between the central and state governments, exemplified by the case of Madhya Pradesh, underscores the significance of federal structures in achieving these outcomes.

Reflecting on India’s role in advancing Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the UN system head, acknowledges that the world is currently facing a crisis. The Secretary-General has advocated for a global SDG stimulus plan to rescue the goals, as only 12% of them are on track globally. However, India, with its rapid progress and significant demographic advantage, has the potential to make SDGs a reality. The large youth population and ambitious commitments, such as achieving 500 gigawatts of renewable energy by 2030, highlight India’s crucial role in global sustainability efforts, he adds.

Mr Sharp identifies the private sector as a key player in advancing development, not just in India but globally. Acknowledging the changing landscape of development assistance, multilateral banks, and public financing, he views the private sector as the engine and driver of the economy. He emphasises on adoption of sustainability practices within core business strategies, making CSR and philanthropy essential but secondary components.

Referring to India’s G20 presidency, he says that India’s leadership is seen as part of a broader narrative where the country is becoming a provider of development solutions globally, sharing best practices and supporting other nations through initiatives like the India UN Development Partnership Fund, the International Solar Alliance, and the coalition on disaster-resilient infrastructure. India’s commitment to sustainable development and poverty reduction serves as an inspiring example for the world.