Home/upsc: sustainable development
- Recent Questions
- Most Answered
- Answers
- No Answers
- Most Visited
- Most Voted
- Random
- Bump Question
- New Questions
- Sticky Questions
- Polls
- Followed Questions
- Favorite Questions
- Recent Questions With Time
- Most Answered With Time
- Answers With Time
- No Answers With Time
- Most Visited With Time
- Most Voted With Time
- Random With Time
- Bump Question With Time
- New Questions With Time
- Sticky Questions With Time
- Polls With Time
- Followed Questions With Time
- Favorite Questions With Time
What strategies can India adopt to improve access to green financing in order to achieve its climate goals and advance sustainable development? (200 words)
Model Answer India’s commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2070, announced at COP 26, necessitates a $10 trillion investment, according to the International Financial Services Centres Authority. Below are strategies India can adopt to enhance access to green finance and achieve its climate aRead more
Model Answer
India’s commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2070, announced at COP 26, necessitates a $10 trillion investment, according to the International Financial Services Centres Authority. Below are strategies India can adopt to enhance access to green finance and achieve its climate and sustainable development goals:
1. Develop a Conducive Policy and Regulatory Environment
2. Introduce Formal Carbon Pricing Frameworks
3. Mobilize Domestic and International Capital
4. Expand Green Finance Through Banks
5. Advocate at International Forums
Conclusion
To make green financing a cornerstone of Mission 2070, India must implement a holistic policy framework and foster strong domestic and international financial collaboration. Initiatives like carbon pricing, innovative financial instruments, and advocacy on global platforms will be pivotal in ensuring a sustainable and climate-resilient future.
See lessEven though prevalence of poverty has reduced in India, inequality remains a cause of concern. Analyze.
Despite the advancement that has been made in India towards attainment of the millennium development goal two of ending poverty, income and wealth have remainedMENU a major concern in the county. This is evident in several key areas: -Income Inequality: It noted, for instance, that the ratio of earnRead more
Despite the advancement that has been made in India towards attainment of the millennium development goal two of ending poverty, income and wealth have remainedMENU a major concern in the county. This is evident in several key areas:
-Income Inequality: It noted, for instance, that the ratio of earnings between those at the top and bottom of the income distribution has been increasing. While the median of the income is held by the 1% of the total people in the country, half of the population remains deprived of most opportunities and resources available in the nation.
-Wealth Inequality: Income inequality is far worse than wealth concentration because it is easier to achieve the latter because only a few people possess large sums of money. Much of the wealth in the country resides in the hands of a relatively few people and families.
-Rural-Urban Divide: The rural and urban population contrasts clearly, but the poor provide little access to education, health care, and employment.
-Gender Inequality: The ranks of women remain vulnerable to low wages, unemployment and lack of access toyas, and access to resources.
-Caste-Based Inequality: Nonetheless, caste discrimination is still exhibited in the country hence affecting education, employment, and social opportunity of the people as provided in the constitution.
All these have major impacts such as social, political violeces and negative impacts to the economy. These problems can be met with coordinated sequential social program, reasonable taxation policy, as well as education and health care.
See less"Access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy is the sine qua non to achieve Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)." Comment on the progress made in India in this regard. (150 words) [UPSC 2018]
Access to Affordable, Reliable, Sustainable, and Modern Energy in India Progress Made: Expansion of Electrification: Ujjwala Yojana: Launched in 2016, this scheme has provided over 90 million LPG connections to women from below-poverty-line families, significantly improving access to cleaner cookingRead more
Access to Affordable, Reliable, Sustainable, and Modern Energy in India
Progress Made:
India’s efforts reflect significant strides towards achieving SDGs related to energy, although continued focus on renewable integration and energy equity is needed.
See lessExamine the potential of India's circular economy initiatives, such as the Swachh Bharat Mission and the Extended Producer Responsibility regulations, in promoting sustainable waste management, resource efficiency, and the transition towards a more environmentally-friendly economic model.
Potential of India's Circular Economy Initiatives India’s adoption of circular economy principles is crucial for advancing sustainable waste management, resource efficiency, and transitioning towards a more environmentally-friendly economic model. Key initiatives such as the Swachh Bharat Mission anRead more
Potential of India’s Circular Economy Initiatives
India’s adoption of circular economy principles is crucial for advancing sustainable waste management, resource efficiency, and transitioning towards a more environmentally-friendly economic model. Key initiatives such as the Swachh Bharat Mission and Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) regulations play significant roles in promoting these goals.
Swachh Bharat Mission
Launched in 2014, the Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM) aims to improve sanitation and cleanliness across India, aligning with the principles of a circular economy by focusing on waste management and resource recovery.
1. Sustainable Waste Management
2. Resource Efficiency
3. Transition to Environmentally-Friendly Economic Models
Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Regulations
EPR regulations require producers to take responsibility for the entire lifecycle of their products, including post-consumer waste. This policy promotes recycling and reduces waste, aligning with circular economy goals.
1. Promotion of Sustainable Waste Management
2. Resource Efficiency
3. Transition Towards Circular Economy
Conclusion
India’s circular economy initiatives, including the Swachh Bharat Mission and Extended Producer Responsibility regulations, are pivotal in advancing sustainable waste management, resource efficiency, and transitioning to an environmentally-friendly economic model. Recent examples from cities like Bengaluru and Pune, along with corporate initiatives by companies like Hindustan Unilever and Samsung, demonstrate the effectiveness of these programs in promoting circular economy principles. By integrating waste management practices and resource efficiency into economic policies, India is making significant strides toward a more sustainable and resilient future.
See lessAnalyze the role of corporate social responsibility (CSR) and impact investing in supporting India's sustainable development agenda, and discuss the government's efforts to encourage and incentivize businesses to align their operations and investments with the country's sustainable development priorities.
Role of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and Impact Investing in India's Sustainable Development Agenda Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and impact investing are integral to supporting India's sustainable development agenda. They play a crucial role in addressing social, environmental, andRead more
Role of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and Impact Investing in India’s Sustainable Development Agenda
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and impact investing are integral to supporting India’s sustainable development agenda. They play a crucial role in addressing social, environmental, and economic challenges while contributing to the broader goals of inclusive growth and sustainable development.
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)
CSR involves companies taking responsibility for their impact on society and the environment beyond their profit motives. In India, CSR activities are guided by the Companies Act, 2013, which mandates companies meeting certain criteria to allocate 2% of their average net profit to CSR activities.
Recent Examples of CSR Initiatives:
Impact Investing
Impact investing refers to investments aimed at generating positive social and environmental impacts alongside financial returns. This approach aligns with India’s sustainable development priorities by channeling capital into projects that address critical issues such as poverty, education, and climate change.
Recent Examples of Impact Investing:
Government Efforts to Encourage and Incentivize CSR and Impact Investing
1. Regulatory Framework and Mandates
2. Policy Incentives
3. Promotion of Impact Investing
4. Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs)
5. Reporting and Transparency
Conclusion
CSR and impact investing are pivotal in advancing India’s sustainable development agenda. CSR initiatives contribute directly to societal well-being and environmental protection, while impact investing directs capital towards projects that address pressing challenges and generate positive impacts. Government efforts, through regulatory frameworks, policy incentives, and partnerships, play a crucial role in encouraging businesses to align their operations and investments with sustainable development priorities, thereby supporting the country’s long-term growth and resilience.
See lessDiscuss the potential of India's renewable energy sector, particularly solar and wind power, to contribute to the country's sustainable development goals, and evaluate the government's strategies to promote renewable energy deployment, enhance grid integration, and address the challenges of storage and intermittency.
Potential of India's Renewable Energy Sector India's renewable energy sector, particularly solar and wind power, holds significant potential to contribute to the country's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The sector aligns with India's commitments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, promote susRead more
Potential of India’s Renewable Energy Sector
India’s renewable energy sector, particularly solar and wind power, holds significant potential to contribute to the country’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The sector aligns with India’s commitments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, promote sustainable energy access, and foster economic growth.
Solar Power
India’s solar energy capacity has seen remarkable growth. The country aims to achieve a capacity of 500 GW from non-fossil fuel sources by 2030, with a significant portion coming from solar energy. Recent examples include:
Wind Power
India is also making strides in wind energy. As of 2024, India has an installed wind power capacity of over 42 GW, making it one of the top five wind energy producers globally. Recent developments include:
Government Strategies to Promote Renewable Energy
The Indian government has implemented several strategies to advance renewable energy deployment, improve grid integration, and tackle storage and intermittency challenges:
1. National Policies and Targets
2. Financial and Regulatory Incentives
3. Technological Innovations and Research
4. International Cooperation
Challenges and Solutions
1. Grid Integration
Integrating renewable energy into the grid presents challenges due to its variability. To address this, India is focusing on:
2. Storage Solutions
The intermittent nature of solar and wind energy necessitates effective storage solutions. The government is:
3. Policy and Regulatory Challenges
Regulatory hurdles and policy uncertainty can impact the growth of renewable energy. Efforts to address these include:
In conclusion, India’s renewable energy sector, driven by solar and wind power, has a profound potential to advance the country’s sustainable development goals. The government’s strategic initiatives, coupled with technological advancements and international collaboration, are pivotal in overcoming challenges and ensuring the successful integration of renewable energy into the national grid.
See lessAnalyze the role of the National Institution for Transforming India (NITI Aayog) in coordinating and monitoring the implementation of India's Sustainable Development Goals, and assess the effectiveness of the government's policy interventions and institutional frameworks in driving sustainable development.
Role of NITI Aayog in Coordinating and Monitoring the Implementation of India's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 1. Overview of NITI Aayog’s Role Mandate and Objectives: The National Institution for Transforming India (NITI Aayog), established in 2015, is the premier policy think tank of the IndRead more
Role of NITI Aayog in Coordinating and Monitoring the Implementation of India’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
1. Overview of NITI Aayog’s Role
Mandate and Objectives:
The National Institution for Transforming India (NITI Aayog), established in 2015, is the premier policy think tank of the Indian government. It plays a crucial role in coordinating and monitoring the implementation of India’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Key Functions:
Recent Examples of NITI Aayog’s Role:
2. Effectiveness of Government Policy Interventions
1. Policy Frameworks and Strategies
National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC):
National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (NREGA):
2. Institutional Frameworks and Coordination
SDG Task Forces and Expert Groups:
3. Monitoring and Evaluation
SDG India Dashboard:
Effectiveness and Areas for Improvement:
1. Achievements and Impact
Improved Data Availability:
2. Challenges and Recommendations
Integration Across Sectors:
Resource Allocation and Capacity Building:
Conclusion
NITI Aayog plays a pivotal role in coordinating and monitoring India’s efforts towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. Through strategic policy frameworks, institutional coordination, and robust monitoring mechanisms, the institution contributes significantly to driving sustainable development. While there have been notable achievements, addressing challenges related to integration, resource allocation, and capacity building will be crucial for further progress. Enhanced collaboration and targeted interventions will be key to achieving India’s SDG targets and promoting sustainable and inclusive growth.
See lessEvaluate the progress made by India in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) set by the United Nations, and discuss the challenges and constraints faced by the country in areas such as poverty alleviation, access to healthcare, education, and environmental protection.
Evaluation of India's Progress Towards Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 1. Overview of India’s Progress on SDGs India has made substantial progress in various areas concerning the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) set by the United Nations. The SDGs are a universal call to actioRead more
Evaluation of India’s Progress Towards Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
1. Overview of India’s Progress on SDGs
India has made substantial progress in various areas concerning the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) set by the United Nations. The SDGs are a universal call to action to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure prosperity for all by 2030.
Poverty Alleviation
Access to Healthcare
Education
Environmental Protection
2. Challenges and Constraints
Poverty Alleviation
Access to Healthcare
Education
Environmental Protection
3. Recommendations for Addressing Challenges
Strengthening Implementation Mechanisms
Enhancing Public-Private Partnerships
Investing in Education and Skills Development
Promoting Sustainable Development Practices
Conclusion
India has made commendable progress in achieving several SDGs, including poverty alleviation, healthcare access, education, and environmental protection. However, significant challenges remain, including income inequality, disparities in healthcare and education, and environmental degradation. Addressing these challenges requires focused policy interventions, enhanced public-private partnerships, and sustained efforts to ensure that progress is equitable and sustainable. By addressing these constraints and implementing targeted strategies, India can continue to advance towards achieving the SDGs and improving the quality of life for its population.
See lessExamine the impact of India's urban development initiatives, such as the Smart Cities Mission and the Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT), on the sustainable management of cities, including the provision of affordable housing, efficient transportation, and the reduction of environmental footprint.
Impact of India's Urban Development Initiatives on Sustainable City Management India's urban development initiatives, particularly the Smart Cities Mission and the Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT), have been instrumental in addressing the challenges posed by rapid urbanRead more
Impact of India’s Urban Development Initiatives on Sustainable City Management
India’s urban development initiatives, particularly the Smart Cities Mission and the Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT), have been instrumental in addressing the challenges posed by rapid urbanization. These initiatives aim to enhance the sustainability of urban areas by focusing on affordable housing, efficient transportation, and reducing environmental footprints. Here’s an examination of their impact with recent examples:
1. Provision of Affordable Housing
a. Smart Cities Mission: The Smart Cities Mission incorporates affordable housing as a central element of urban development:
b. AMRUT: AMRUT focuses on providing affordable housing through urban infrastructure development:
2. Efficient Transportation
a. Smart Cities Mission: Efficient transportation is a key focus area under the Smart Cities Mission:
b. AMRUT: AMRUT contributes to transportation efficiency through infrastructure upgrades:
3. Reduction of Environmental Footprint
a. Smart Cities Mission: The Smart Cities Mission integrates environmental sustainability into urban development:
b. AMRUT: AMRUT emphasizes environmental sustainability through various measures:
4. Challenges and Opportunities
a. Implementation Challenges: Both missions face challenges that impact their effectiveness:
b. Future Opportunities: There are significant opportunities for enhancing the impact of these initiatives:
Conclusion
India’s Smart Cities Mission and AMRUT are making notable strides in enhancing the sustainability of urban management by focusing on affordable housing, efficient transportation, and environmental conservation. While these initiatives have achieved significant progress, addressing implementation challenges and exploring future opportunities will be crucial for maximizing their impact and achieving long-term urban sustainability goals.
See lessThe practice of input-intensive agriculture in India needs a massive overhaul due to its unsustainability and negative consequences. In this context, discuss the significance of Low External Input Sustainable Agriculture (LEISA).
The input-intensive agriculture involves various types of agriculture with a high level of input and output per unit of agricultural land area. It is characterized by a low fallow ratio, higher use of inputs such as capital and labour and high crop yields per unit land area. It helps in getting highRead more
The input-intensive agriculture involves various types of agriculture with a high level of input and output per unit of agricultural land area. It is characterized by a low fallow ratio, higher use of inputs such as capital and labour and high crop yields per unit land area. It helps in getting high crop yield on smaller land due to inputs like fertilizers, HYV seeds, machines etc. It is more efficient and it makes it easier for farmers to supervise the crops and also helps in raising their income levels. In India, input-intensive farming can be seen in Kerala, West Bengal, coastal Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu and other regions like Haryana, Punjab, UP, Bihar as well. However, the practice of input-intensive agriculture in India needs to be overhauled due to various reasons:
In this context, Low External Input Sustainable Agriculture (LEISA) has become important. It is based on the ecological principle of minimal use of external agents and involves the process of stimulating soil microorganism. It also ensures optimum nutrient availability through processes like nitrogen fixation. It involves the process of biological pest control methods and also biodiversity through the process of synergetic and symbiotic conditions.
This method is gaining prominence because of its significance in
Thus, adoption of LEISA should be promoted as it aims at making optimal use of locally available natural and human resources becoming economically feasible, ecologically sound, culturally adapted and socially just.
See less