Kerala Tops NITI Aayog’s SDG India Index 2023-24: A Model for Sustainable Development

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• June 6, 2025
• Government, Kerala
• NITI Aayog, Sustainability
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Kerala Shines on the National Stage: Kerala has emerged as the top performer in the NITI Aayog’s SDG India Index 2023-24, further cementing its status as a leader in sustainable development. With a score of 79 out of 100, Kerala continues its consistent streak at the top, making remarkable strides towards achieving the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Key Achievements:

• No Poverty (SDG 1):
  • Lowest Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI): Kerala boasts the lowest MPI in India, with just 0.55%of its population living in multidimensional poverty.
  • Direct Impact: Over 92% of Kerala’s households are covered under the Public Distribution System (PDS), ensuring equitable access to basic necessities.
  • Source: Kerala Economic Review 2023
• Good Health and Well-Being (SDG 3):
  • Health Index: Kerala’s health indicators remain among the best in India, with a life expectancy of 75 years and an Infant Mortality Rate (IMR) of just 6 per 1,000 live births.
  • Sustainable Healthcare: Kerala’s primary healthcare system is accessible to over 95% of its population, supported by well-distributed healthcare infrastructure in urban and rural areas.
  • Source: Kerala Health Department
• Quality Education (SDG 4):
  • Literacy Rate: Kerala’s literacy rate stands at 96.2%, the highest in India, demonstrating a deep commitment to education.
  • Enrollment Rates: The state achieves 100% enrollment at the elementary level, ensuring universal education for all children.
  • Source: Kerala Education Department

Government Initiatives:

• Nava Kerala Action Plan:
  • This ambitious plan aims to strengthen the state’s growth across five key pillars: economic development, social welfare, sustainable agriculture, education, and health.
  • Investment in Innovation: The government has set aside ₹500 crore for innovation and technology, aimed at furthering economic growth through sustainable and digital advancements.
  • Source: Kerala Government
• Digital Kerala Initiative:
  • e-Governance: Kerala leads as India’s first fully e-governed state, ensuring efficiency and transparencyin public services.
  • Digital Literacy: The state is rapidly progressing towards becoming 100% e-literate, with a focus on reaching rural populations.
  • Source: Kerala e-Governance

Economic Growth and Sustainability:

• GSDP Growth: Kerala recorded a 6.6% growth in its Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) in 2022-23, reflecting its resilience even amidst global challenges.
• Job Creation: With investments in digital technologies and sustainable industries, Kerala continues to create opportunities for its youth, particularly in the IT and renewable energy sectors.
  • Source: Kerala Department of Economics

Looking Ahead: Kerala’s unwavering commitment to sustainable development and its focus on inclusive growth has made it a model for other states. As it moves forward, the state’s policies will continue to align with global best practices, ensuring it remains a leader in SDGs in India and beyond.