India Enters Top 100 in Global Sustainable Development Goals Rankings for the First Time

A Major Milestone in India’s Sustainability Journey

In a significant achievement, India has entered the top 100 countries in the global Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Index for the very first time. This major leap was highlighted in the 2025 Sustainable Development Report (SDR), released on June 24, 2025, by the United Nations Sustainable Development Solutions Network. India now holds the 99th position out of 193 countries, with a score of 67 points, signaling tangible progress toward meeting global sustainability targets.

This marks a turning point in India’s development story, reflecting years of concerted efforts to promote inclusive growth, strengthen infrastructure, and address environmental and social challenges.

Global Performance: How India Compares

India’s rise in the rankings becomes even more meaningful when viewed in the context of other major economies. China is currently ranked 49th with 74.4 points, while the United States holds the 44th spot with 75.2 points. Regionally, Bhutan leads South Asia at 74th place (70.5 points), followed by Nepal at 85th (68.6). Bangladesh comes in at 114th (63.9), and Pakistan lags behind at 140th (57).

Among maritime neighbors, Maldives performs well at 53rd, while Sri Lanka holds the 93rd position. India’s entry into the top 100 places it ahead of several key regional players, highlighting the country’s focused and strategic push toward sustainable development.

The Bigger Picture: SDG Progress Faces Global Slowdown

While India’s progress is commendable, the global outlook on SDG achievement is far less optimistic. The report notes that only 17% of the 17 SDG targets, adopted by UN member countries in 2015, are on track to be achieved by 2030.

According to Jeffrey Sachs, the report’s lead author and a globally respected economist, ongoing conflicts, structural vulnerabilities, and limited fiscal space in many nations are major roadblocks. Even countries that top the index, such as Finland, Sweden, and Denmark, are facing difficulties in areas like climate action and biodiversity conservation, due to unsustainable consumption habits.

Asia Rising: Regional Success in Sustainable Development

Despite global challenges, East and South Asia have emerged as high-performing regions in terms of SDG advancement. Rapid economic growth, improved public health systems, expanded digital access, and better infrastructure have contributed to this positive trend since 2015.

In fact, many countries, including India, have shown substantial improvement in key indicators such as mobile broadband access (SDG 9), electricity availability (SDG 7), internet penetration, and reduced child mortality rates (SDG 3). These are signs of real progress on the ground—especially in areas that directly impact quality of life.

Warning Signs: Five Key Areas of Reversal

However, it’s not all forward momentum. The report warns that five SDG targets have seen notable setbacks globally since 2015:

• Obesity rates have climbed (SDG 2)
• Press freedom has declined (SDG 16)
• Sustainable nitrogen use in agriculture has worsened (SDG 2)
• The Red List Index, which measures species extinction, has deteriorated (SDG 15)
• Corruption perceptions have worsened in many regions (SDG 16)

These areas highlight the complexity and interconnectedness of sustainable development, where gains in one domain can be offset by losses in another.

A Global Spotlight on Multilateral Commitment

Interestingly, the countries most dedicated to UN multilateralism are not global superpowers but smaller island nations. The top three spots go to Barbados, Jamaica, and Trinidad and Tobago—an inspiring example of how smaller countries can lead on the global stage through strong diplomatic engagement and cooperation.

Conclusion: A New Chapter for India on the Global SDG Stage

India’s debut in the top 100 of the SDG Index marks more than just a statistical win—it symbolizes a broader shift toward a more sustainable, inclusive, and resilient development path. While challenges remain, this achievement is a positive signal that the country is moving in the right direction.

With continued focus on climate action, clean energy, healthcare access, and digital empowerment, India is well-positioned to become a global leader in sustainable development. As 2030 approaches, this momentum will be crucial not only for India but for the world’s collective ability to meet the SDGs in time.