Should the UN Continue to Be a Catalyst for Sustainable Development?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- UN's role as a catalyst for sustainable development is vital.
- India's economic growth positions it as a stabilizing force.
- Over 248 million people lifted out of poverty through targeted policies.
- Mission LiFE promotes climate-conscious behaviors.
- Commitment to global South cooperation enhances development efforts.
New York, July 22 (NationPress) During the Ministerial Segment of the High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Suman Bery, Vice Chairman of NITI Aayog, articulated the importance of the United Nations remaining a pivotal force in promoting inclusive and sustainable development worldwide.
In his address, Bery remarked, “We are at a critical juncture for our unified 2030 agenda. The globe is experiencing considerable economic transformations and uncertainties, making our collective efforts on the Sustainable Development Goals more vital than ever. The world needs stability anchors, innovative growth engines, and scalable development models, and India, with its capabilities and insights, is prepared to provide all three.”
He pointed out that India’s ongoing economic progress positions it as a stabilizing force for the international community, highlighting the nation as a vibrant democracy with improving socio-economic metrics driven by inclusive digital innovation, principled reforms, and a commitment to empowering all societal segments.
Bery emphasized India’s dedication to ensuring that no one is left behind through targeted strategies and digital public resources, having successfully lifted 248 million people out of poverty from 2013-14 to 2022-23.
“Today, India is home to the world’s largest youth workforce entering the job market. We are dedicated to ensuring they have a promising and productive future. India’s journey exemplifies that inclusive and sustainable development is not only feasible but also scalable. The success of Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment) is transforming consumption habits and fostering climate-conscious behaviors among more than a billion individuals,” noted the NITI Aayog vice chairman.
Bery confirmed India's commitment to driving change through cooperation with the Global South, extending concessional finance, technology partnerships, and capacity-building aid to developing nations.
“India firmly supports the UN’s central role in driving global change. As we celebrate UN @80, we reaffirm our faith in the UN as the foundation of multilateralism. The UN must persist as a catalyst for inclusive and sustainable development. India advocates for a more representative and effective UN system that mirrors contemporary realities and empowers all nations to shape our common future,” he concluded.