Not only India ranks an abysmal 131 on the Human Development Index (HDI), its rank in the Global Hunger Index (GHI) is equally disappointing at 94 out of 107 assessed countries. Gender, along with other social factors, is an overarching phenomenon that plays a defining role in understanding and analysing the overall development paradigm, especially in traditional and developing societies.

The researchers who contributed to this report tried to identify and document the pathways for the implementation of the SDG framework in the Indian context, especially the implementation structures, status of achievements, and key gaps. The research specifically reflects on the adequacy of methodologies and tools as applied in the context of social, political, geographical and financial diversities in India. While the common development goals do lend cohesion to efforts under way, ramifications of the exercise being anchored at the federal level may or may not be entirely relevant to all the 30 states and union territories of the country.

This research forms the initial basis for close collaboration between the British, European and Indian partners involved and is expected to be further strengthened through subsequent projects.

PS: The report is now also available in a new format in both English and Kannada, the latter being the main language of the state of Karnataka in India.