Converging Pathways to Sustainability: India’s Pursuit of SDG 7 and SDG 13

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) represent a universally accepted framework under the United Nations (UN), delineating a harmonized blueprint for ensuring global peace and prosperity, benefiting both humanity and the planet, across present and future generations. Global partnership is needed to frame strategies to combat climate change and other socio-economic deprivations in terms of poverty, hunger, malnutrition, health, education, inequality, and economic growth and development. Countries around the globe are working at the national level as well as internationally to achieve these targets of SDGs at the earliest including India. In this backdrop, this study offers a critical analysis of India’s initiatives and progress in attaining the targets of SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) and SDG 13 (Climate Action) during 2016-2025. The study synthesizes qualitative and quantitative insights derived from the United Nations Development Programme’s (UNDP) Annual SDG Reports (2016-2025) and the Paris Agreement (2015). Furthermore, it incorporates analyses of reports from NITI Aayog, Government of India, and the National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC), providing a multifaceted perspective on progress towards sustainable development goals. SDG 7 ensures access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all. SDG 13 appeals for taking urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts. Through its 5 targets, SDG 13 ensures strengthen resilience; integrate measures, building knowledge and capacity, implementation of UN framework and promoting mechanisms for climate change and climate action. The study critically explores the association between the climate change and Sustainable Development Goals by internalizing environmental disruptions for developing country like India. The study is significant in understanding the need for earnest actions for mitigating the severe effects of climate change. Achieving effective climate action necessitates strong political will, coordinated governance, robust frameworks, and access to funding and technology cooperation. For India, specific targets, cross-sector coordination, and inclusive decision-making are crucial. Widely implemented regulatory and economic tools can drive emissions cuts and boost resilience. Strong leadership and regional to global cooperation are essential for effective climate policy. Ultimately, climate-resilient growth thrives on holistic understanding, expertise, and strategies for mitigation and adaptation, paving the way for a sustainable future.