Whole-of-Government Approach to SDGs
In his inaugural address, Shri Bikash Debbarma, Tripura’s Minister for Planning (Statistics), stressed that the SDGs are not just global commitments but practical tools to improve people’s lives, especially women, children, and vulnerable groups. He said Tripura has adopted a whole-of-government approach to align development initiatives with the 2030 Agenda.
Delivering the keynote, Shri S.C. Malik, Additional Director General of MoSPI, underlined the importance of localized action and continuous monitoring. He highlighted MoSPI’s role in developing the National Indicator Framework (NIF) and guiding States and Union Territories in preparing State and District Indicator Frameworks (SIFs/DIFs). Malik emphasized that monitoring is not an end in itself but a tool to improve outcomes and ensure inclusivity.
Shri Rajiv Sen, Senior Advisor at NITI Aayog, highlighted the role of institutions in effective SDG implementation through robust monitoring. Shri Abhishek Chandra, Special Secretary of Planning (Statistics), Government of Tripura, reiterated the state’s commitment to improving its data systems for localized monitoring.
Representing UNDP, Mr. Jaimon Uthup reaffirmed support for India’s SDG monitoring efforts, stressing the importance of building strong data ecosystems and inclusive monitoring mechanisms that capture local priorities.
Guidance for States and UTs
Officials from MoSPI, including Ms. Saumya Sakshi, Joint Director, and Mr. Abhishek Gaurav, Deputy Director, provided an overview of the monitoring mechanisms through NIF and Sub-National Indicator Frameworks. They explained how MoSPI had issued guidelines in 2019 for States and UTs, later updated in 2022, to align local frameworks with national and global priorities.
Tripura’s experience in developing its State Indicator Framework was shared by Shri Chiranjib Ghosh, Joint Director of DES Tripura. UNDP also presented international best practices in SDG monitoring with a focus on localization and inclusivity.
Hands-On Technical Sessions
The workshop featured technical sessions where participants engaged in group exercises to identify relevant indicators for each SDG. The exercises focused on drafting frameworks, assigning departmental responsibilities, and formulating state-specific action plans. Special attention was given to integrating cross-cutting issues such as gender equity and climate resilience into state frameworks.
Commitment to Evidence-Based Policymaking
The workshop concluded with a strong call to action. Participants reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening sub-national monitoring systems while ensuring alignment with the National Indicator Framework. The discussions reinforced the collective goal of achieving the 2030 Agenda through evidence-based policymaking and inclusive development strategies.