North Eastern Region District SDG Index 2023-24
The North Eastern Region (NER) District Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Index 2023-24 was released by NITI Aayog and the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (MoDoNER) with UNDP support. This second edition evaluates 121 districts across eight states on sustainable development progress. It reflects strong regional commitment to social, economic, and environmental goals ahead of the 2030 SDG deadline.
Overview of the Index and Its Purpose
The NER District SDG Index uses NITI Aayog’s SDG India Index methodology to track district-level progress. It supports evidence-based planning and resource allocation. The index categorises districts as Achiever, Front Runner, Performer, or Aspirant based on composite scores. It aims to ensure inclusive growth and no one is left behind in the region’s development.
Performance Across States and Districts
- Mizoram, Sikkim, and Tripura have all districts in the Front Runner category.
- Mizoram’s Hnahthial district tops the region with a score of 81.43.
- Arunachal Pradesh’s Longding district scores lowest at 58.71.
- Sikkim shows the most consistent district performances with only 5.5 points difference between highest and lowest scores.
- Tripura also has strong scores with minimal variation.
- Nagaland and Mizoram exhibit wider score ranges indicating uneven progress within states.
Sectoral Improvements and Key Indicators
Good Health and Well-being improved in 93 districts. Assam’s districts showed gains in Zero Hunger, Quality Education, Clean Water and Sanitation, and Decent Work. These improvements show the impact of national flagship schemes and localised programmes like the Aspirational Districts initiative. The index captures multidimensional progress in social and economic indicators.
Role of Stakeholders and Policy Significance
The report exemplifies cooperative federalism by uniting states and central agencies. The index identifies gaps and provides actionable insights for targeted interventions. It also supports India’s vision of Viksit Bharat by 2047 through intermediate SDG milestones. Data-driven governance is central to accelerating sustainable development in the NER.
State-wise Highest and Lowest District Scores
- Arunachal Pradesh: Lower Dibang Valley (73.36), Longding (58.71)
- Assam: Dibrugarh (74.29), South Salmara-Mankachar (59.71)
- Manipur: Imphal West (73.21), Pherzawl (59.71)
- Meghalaya: East Khasi Hills (73.00), East Jaintia Hills (63.00)
- Mizoram: Hnahthial (81.43), Lawngtlai (67.71)
- Nagaland: Mokokchung (78.43), Zunheboto (63.36)
- Sikkim: Gangtok (76.64), Gyalshing (71.14)
- Tripura: Gomati (78.79), Dhalai (72.29)
Implications for Sustainable Development Goals
The index serves as a vital tool for tracking progress towards the SDGs by 2030. It marks regional disparities and successes. Focused efforts can be directed to low-performing districts. The report encourages continuous monitoring and resource optimisation to encourage balanced growth in the North Eastern Region.
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