BEYOND SDG LOCALISATION: A POLICY ANALYSIS

Abstract

In the wake of the transition from Millennium Developmental Goals to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) under the United Nations Agenda 2030, India finds a shift in policy focus towards integrating SDGs in policy planning and implementation. This policy analysis explores the effectiveness of this shift in the form of SDG Localisation. SDG Localisation addresses several challenges ranging from behavioural and planning to prioritisation. It incorporates local governance units in a nationally coordinated and locally- relevant policy planning. It attempts to see alternate governance approaches to solve diverse problems in India. This analysis utilises a comparative approach within four alternative models: Bottom-Up Decentralisation Model, Centralised Governance Model, Market-Driven Solution Model, and Sectoral Governance Model. It employs twelve criteria for the comparative analysis. The analysis finds that while the SDG Localisation Model is flexible to regional conditions, it suffers from a Top-Down state of decentralised decision-making in India. The Centralised Governance Model excels in nationally coordinated actions but lacks local responsiveness. Market-Driven Solution Model uses market forces to improve innovation but is unresponsive to equity and inclusiveness. The Sectoral Governance Model boasts a specialised focus on targeted goals but is ineffective in inter-sectoral policies. The policy analysis concludes that the Bottom-Up Decentralisation Model offers the most strategic Plan of Action towards localising SDGs in local policy planning. It recommends amplifying the focus on SDGs by prioritising them and improving educational indicators, improving bottom-up decision-making, and promoting experimentation.