Understanding the linkages between sustainable development goal 3 and other sustainable development goals in India

Abstract

Background: Despite sustainable development goals (SDG) accounting for numerous goals and targets, all of them are interconnected. Methods: Using NITI (National institution for transforming India) Aayog's SDG indexes and indicators, the current study examines the interlinkage between SDG 3 indicators-neonatal mortality rate (NMR) and under-five mortality rate (U5MR) and other SDGs indicators in India. Results: Spearman's correlation suggests SDG 3 has a synergetic relationship with SDG 7 (Affordable and clean energy), SDG 1 (No poverty), and SDG 5 (Gender equality). On the other hand, significant negative correlations have been seen between zero hunger (SDG 2), quality education (SDG 4), no poverty (SDG 1), and industry, innovation, and infrastructure (SDG 9) with neonatal, and U5MR. It suggested that reducing poverty, improving quality education, and taking action to address climate change are statistically linked with progress in SDG 3. Conclusions: The study confirms the relevance of interactions between the SDGs. The study suggested more research and interlinked policies will be needed to achieve SDG 3 by 2030.