Sustainable Development Goal 7 (SDG 7) ensures access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy for all. It recognizes the pivotal role of power in eradicating poverty, advancing economic growth, and promoting sustainable development. SDG 7 targets are focused on enhancing energy efficiency, increasing the share of renewable energy in the global energy mix, and providing access to clean and reliable energy sources, especially in developing countries. Access to electricity and clean cooking solutions is crucial for improving living conditions, healthcare, education, and economic opportunities in communities worldwide. By achieving SDG 7, the world can make significant progress in combating climate change, reducing air pollution, and promoting inclusive and sustainable development, ensuring that no one is left behind in the transition to a cleaner and greener energy future.

How Can We Achieve SDG 7 In 2023?

Sustainable architecture, i.e., designing “Green Buildings” that do not harm nature and communities, should be actively considered. Focus on three critical features:

Green Buildings

Sustainable architecture, also known as green architecture or green design, focuses on creating buildings that positively impact people and the environment. These buildings are designed, constructed, and operated in ways that protect nature and use resources wisely.

Green buildings have special features, such as:

While not all green buildings have every desired feature, incorporating features such as solar power and rainwater harvesting can bring many benefits. They help fight climate change, encourage sustainability, and contribute to the growth of vibrant and thriving communities.

How Do Green Buildings Contribute Towards Fulfilling The SDG 7

Sustainable architecture helps fulfill SDG 7 by positively impacting the environment, economy, and society. Here’s how:

Architects worldwide are now more focused on creating sustainable buildings that have less impact on nature. These buildings use energy and resources more efficiently, consume fewer nonrenewable resources, and even improve the natural environment. By designing and constructing buildings this way, we help protect our planet and create a better future for everyone.

S M Sehgal Foundation

The top sustainable rural development NGO in India, S M Sehgal Foundation’s eco-friendly building in Gurugram, Haryana, is a step toward a more sustainable future and shows how simple yet intelligent choices can make a big difference. The structure follows the Platinum Standards set by the U.S. Green Building Council and the Indian Green Building Council.

The founders, Dr. Suri Sehgal and Mrs. Edda Sehgal, wanted the building to align with their mission of promoting sustainable rural development and caring for the environment and people’s health. They incorporated many “green” features in the building like solar panels on the roof to generate electricity, solar water heaters, and a large tank to collect rainwater. The water is recycled and used to recharge groundwater to avoid wasting it.

The building design uses natural light and ventilation, reducing the need for artificial lighting and air conditioning. The building was constructed using eco-friendly materials, such as recycled wood and bamboo.

Contrary to the belief that green buildings are expensive, S M Sehgal Foundation’s building demonstrates that electricity costs can be significantly reduced with smart designs.

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SDG-6 is about achieving universal access to safe drinking water and sanitation, emphasizing the sustainable management of water resources, wastewater, and ecosystems creating an enabling environment. Within the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development framework, nations have committed to monitoring and reviewing progress toward the goals and targets. This process entails utilizing a standardized set of global indicators to assess advancements made in fulfilling the objectives outlined in SDG-6.

Global data indicates that approximately two billion people consume water from sources contaminated by fecal matter. Despite progress in basic sanitation since 2000, around 2.4 billion people still lack that access, with 673 million individuals practicing open defecation. In India, 163 million people lack access to safe water, and 210 million lack improved sanitation. Most households in India face challenges related to unhygienic practices, leading to water contamination. The lack of proper water and sanitation facilities has significant economic consequences, reducing the country’s GDP by about 6.4%. Despite government initiatives such as the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, open defecation remains.

Besides the government initiatives, is there any other way the country can tackle such issues?

Public-Private Partnerships

Public-private partnerships (PPPs) have become common in the urban utility sector, although the water sector is mostly predominantly governed by the state. However, rural India presents a different scenario. Given the limitations of reach and funding that state and central governments face, a collaborative model works best.

Socioeconomic and cultural issues in India continue to hinder water management in rural areas. Since this is primarily state-level, PPP models in the water sector have mainly been project-level initiatives, particularly in rural areas. The introduction of public-private partnerships has established a framework that bridges the gap between the government’s vision and intent, the private sector’s technical expertise and funding, and the nonprofit sector’s dedication. Consequently, the long-term strategic benefits for rural India are slower to materialize.

Nonetheless, large corporates, rural development NGOs in India like S M Sehgal Foundation, and governments collaborate under corporate social responsibility (CSR) or voluntary initiatives to advance the goal of ensuring safe water for all, carrying out the groundbreaking work through this model.

S M Sehgal Foundation

Every individual aspires to lead a secure, prosperous, and dignified life. Keeping this vision at the forefront, S M Sehgal Foundation empowers rural communities, bringing about positive social, economic, and environmental change throughout rural India.

S M Sehgal Foundation is a rural development NGO established in 1999, committed to improving the quality of life of rural communities. As a public charitable trust, the foundation operates with a team of skilled and devoted individuals who design sustainable programs to address the most critical needs of rural India. The five main program areas are Water Management, Agriculture Development, Local Participation, and Sustainability, Transform Lives one school at a time, and Outreach for Development. Guided by a proficient research team, the foundation actively engages and collaborates with various corporates to achieve sustainable outcomes.

RECHARGE PONDS IN MAHENDRAGARH

Narnaul, located in Haryana, is renowned for its thriving agriculture and farming practices, which form the core of the region’s economy. The residents rely heavily on the agricultural produce for their livelihoods. However, the groundwater level in Narnaul, Mahendragarh, has been rapidly depleting, posing a threat to the community. The geographical distance and isolation from the town have further exacerbated the challenging situation. The villagers had to endure long waits for water tankers, resulting in inconvenience and hardships. Water scarcity has also affected their livestock’s well-being, leading to a decline in milk production.

To address these issues, S M Sehgal Foundation and HDFC Bank collaborated to construct johads, which are redundant ponds, in the villages of Sarelli and Panchnota as part of the Parivartan Prayojana initiative. With the construction of the johad, mere two to three hours of heavy rainfall caused the pond to overflow, providing sufficient water supply for the entire year. The increased water storage in the pond facilitated ground seepage, replenishing the water table and resulting in higher groundwater levels. The depth and diameter of the pond were expanded to maximize water collection, ensuring its availability for an extended period, even after evaporation. This positive development extended beyond the johad itself, as neighboring villages observed their wells becoming fuller, enabling them to cater to the needs of a larger population. The impact of this project was undeniable, as it instilled a sense of awareness and confidence among the locals regarding effective water management and its various applications.

POND DEVELOPMENT FOR FARMERS

Gwalior, located in the northern part of Madhya Pradesh, has an extreme climate, especially in summer, with scorching temperatures in April, May, and June. The maximum temperature in peak summers reaches 43 to 48 degrees centigrade. Agriculture is the main livelihood in the community, and the agricultural community depends on surface water to provide irrigation for their crops. Still the region has a diminishing water table that threatens farmers’ livelihoods.

S M Sehgal Foundation implemented a project called “Jal Vikas” in partnership with DCB Bank Limited in the Morena and Ghatigaon blocks of Gwalior district in Madhya Pradesh in 2021–22, with a primary objective to replenish the depleting water table by implementing solutions such as ponds with recharge wells., 38 million liters of surface water storage capacity was created in Dugnawali and Bhatpura Dang villages to ensure an abundance of water to meet the farm community’s agricultural needs, directly benefitting 364 households—a population of over 1,950 people and 825 livestock. The recharge well in Dugnawali village created additional water storage and recharge capacity. The intervention improved the volume and quality of groundwater in the long run and provided greater water security for households and livestock.

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India has shifted from the notion of “Women’s Development” to “Women-Led Development” in recent years. The shift reflects a change in mindset from seeing women as passive recipients of development programs to active participants and leaders in the development process. Recognizing the important role that women can play in driving sustainable and equitable development, the notion of women-led development emphasizes the achievement of women with equal opportunities, decision-making power, and control over resources.

The Indian government has taken several initiatives to promote women’s leadership and empowerment, and achieve SDG 5 such as the following initiatives:

Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan provides free antenatal care to pregnant women, particularly those from marginalized communities.

Sakhi Centres provide counseling, legal aid, and support services to women affected by violence.

Women SHG (Self-Help Group) Movement promotes women’s economic empowerment by providing them access to credit, training, and marketing support.

Indira Gandhi Matritva Sahyog Yojana provides financial assistance to pregnant and lactating women to encourage them to seek proper nutrition and healthcare.

National Scheme for Adolescent Girls provides nutritional, health, and educational support to adolescent girls in rural areas.

National Health Mission improves the overall health and well-being of women and children, particularly those from marginalized communities.

National Commission for Women is an independent body that works to safeguard the rights and interests of women in India.

Women in Security Force (WISF) Scheme increases the representation of women in security forces and promote their participation in law enforcement activities.

These initiatives focus on improving the status of the girl child and promoting gender equality. The government introduced policies to increase the representation of women in decision-making bodies, such as local councils and legislative assemblies.

The shift from “Women’s Development” to “Women-Led Development” represents a significant step forward in promoting gender equality and empowering women in India. Nongovernmental organizations, such as the S M Sehgal Foundation, play a significant role in promoting women-led development. These organizations have implemented programs that aim to empower women and provide them with the skills and knowledge needed to become leaders in their communities.

S M Sehgal Foundation & Its Contributions Toward Achieving SDG 5

Established in 1999, S M Sehgal Foundation is a sustainable rural development NGO in India that advocates for sustainable rural development with a focus on promoting human dignity, protecting the environment, and advocating for social justice. The foundation collaborates with rural communities in India to build their capacities and help them achieve self-reliance.

The foundation’s programs address various issues, including Agricultural Development, Water Management, Rural Education in India, Women’s Empowerment, and more. S M Sehgal Foundation promotes sustainable and equitable development, and its work has significantly improved the lives of countless individuals in rural communities.

Women’s Leadership in India’s Development Sector

S M Sehgal Foundation promotes women’s leadership in India’s development sector. The foundation recognizes and honors the important role that women play in driving sustainable and equitable development and empowers women to become leaders in their communities.

The foundation has implemented several programs to promote women’s leadership, such as the Women’s Leadership Program, which provides training and support to women leaders in rural communities. The program focuses on building the leadership skills of women and empowering them to become agents of change in their communities.

S M Sehgal Foundation work is contributing to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 5 (SDG 5) of promoting gender equality. The foundation’s programs help to increase the representation of women in decision-making roles and empowering women to take an active role in driving development in their communities.

S M Sehgal Foundation’s efforts to promote women’s leadership in India’s development sector create a more equitable and sustainable future. By empowering women to become leaders in their communities, the foundation is helping to promote gender equality and drive positive change in India.

Empowering Women

S M Sehgal Foundation highlights the importance of corporate social responsibility (CSR) in empowering women in India. The CSR report asserts that gender equality is essential for sustainable development, and companies have a crucial role in promoting it through their CSR initiatives.

The report provides several examples of successful CSR initiatives that have empowered women, including providing skill training and job opportunities for women, creating safe working environments, and promoting women’s leadership and decision-making roles. The report highlights the need for collaboration between companies, civil society organizations, and the government to create a supportive ecosystem for women’s empowerment.

The report emphasizes that companies need to prioritize gender equality in their CSR initiatives to ensure that women benefit from them. Companies should focus on empowering women from marginalized communities and creating a gender-inclusive workplace culture. The report recommends that companies establish mechanisms to measure the impact of their initiatives on women’s empowerment.

By prioritizing women’s empowerment, companies will benefit women and contribute to sustainable development and a more equitable future for India.

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Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is a self-regulation business approach that involves companies taking responsibility for the social, economic, and environmental impact of their operations. Corporate-NGO partnerships play an important role in the betterment of the community and country by promoting sustainable development, addressing social issues, and contributing to the overall well-being of society. This can take many forms, including philanthropy, community development projects, environmental sustainability programs, and ethical business practices. By investing in these initiatives, companies create positive social and economic outcomes for the communities in which they operate, as well as for the country as a whole.

For example, companies can support education and healthcare initiatives, build infrastructure, and provide access to basic amenities such as clean water, sanitation, and electricity in rural areas; support local economic development by providing training and creating job opportunities; and implement environmentally sustainable practices to reduce their carbon footprint and promote sustainable development.

To create positive social and economic outcomes, CSR initiatives have a positive impact on a company’s reputation, brand image, and long-term profitability. By demonstrating a commitment to social responsibility and sustainability, companies attract and retain customers, employees, and investors who share similar values.

The role of corporate-NGO partnerships in the betterment of the community and country is significant. By investing in initiatives that promote social, economic, and environmental sustainability, companies contribute to a more equitable and prosperous society, while also enhancing their own reputation and bottom line.

Challenges in Achieving Gender Equality in India

India, like many countries, faces several challenges in achieving gender equality, particularly with Sustainable Development Goal 5. Some of the major challenges include:

Under-representation in political and leadership positions. Women in India are significantly underrepresented in political and leadership positions, which limits their ability to shape policies and decision-making that affect their lives. As of 2021, women occupied only 22% of seats in the Lok Sabha (the lower house of the Indian Parliament), and 24% of seats in the Rajya Sabha (the upper house).

Lack of access to education. While significant progress has been made in increasing access to education in India, girls continue to lag behind boys in enrollment and completion rates. Girls are more likely to drop out of school due to poverty, early marriage, and other social and cultural factors.

Limited access to finance and entrepreneurship. Women in India face significant barriers to accessing finance and starting and running businesses, which limits their ability to participate in the formal economy and perpetuates gender-based economic inequality.

Limited access to technology. Women in India face limited access to technology, particularly in rural areas, which limits their ability to access information and resources and participation in online platforms and the digital economy.

Climate change impacts. Women are particularly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, such as natural disasters, food insecurity, and water scarcity. Climate change exacerbates gender inequalities and limits women’s social and economic empowerment opportunities.

Addressing these challenges requires a sustained effort from governments, civil society organizations, and the private sector. This involves policy reforms that will address gender-based violence, discrimination, and unequal access to education, healthcare, and finance. It should also involve community engagement and empowerment initiatives that promote gender equality, women’s rights, and leadership opportunities.

Initiatives Taken by the Government to Promote Gender Equality & Empower Women

The Government of India has taken several initiatives to promote gender equality and empower women. Some of these initiatives are:

Swadhar Greh Scheme provides shelter and support to women in difficult circumstances, such as those who are homeless or have been rescued from trafficking.

National Policy for Women ensures the equal participation and empowerment of women in all spheres of life.

Gender Budgeting ensures that government budgets are gender-sensitive and takes into account the specific needs and priorities of women.

Women Helpline Scheme provides a 24-hour helpline service for women in distress.

National Rural Livelihoods Mission (NRLM) empowers rural women by providing them with opportunities for self-employment and entrepreneurship.

Working Women Hostel Scheme provides safe and affordable accommodation for working women, particularly those from rural areas and disadvantaged communities.

S M Sehgal Foundation & Corporate Collaborations

Dr. Suri Sehgal, a visionary philanthropist and entrepreneur, and his wife Edda Sehgal, established S M Sehgal Foundation in 1999 as a nonprofit organization. The foundation vision prioritizes sustainable rural development that upholds human dignity, protects the environment, and advocates for social justice. By working closely with rural communities in India, the foundation helps to build their capacities and enable self-reliance.

With a focus on Agricultural Development, Water Management, Rural Education in India, Women’s Empowerment, and more, the sustainable rural development NGO in India aims to promote equitable development. S M Sehgal Foundation has made a significant impact in improving the lives of thousands of people in rural communities, and remains committed to creating positive change through its work.

Radio for Gender Equality, India CSR

S M Sehgal Foundation’s initiative, Community Radio Alfaz-e-Mewat FM 107.8, in India, supported by Sandvik Asia Pvt. Ltd., broadcasts a series that promotes gender equality in rural areas. The initiative is part of the foundation’s efforts to raise awareness about the importance of gender equality and empower women in rural communities. The radio show features related discussions on topics such as women’s health, education, and livelihoods, as well as interviews with successful women entrepreneurs and community leaders. The show also features local folk songs and poetry that celebrate the achievements and struggles of rural women. The program has received positive feedback from listeners and provides a platform for women to voice their concerns and share their experiences.

e-Poshan Kendra

S M Sehgal Foundation collaborated with a rural community in India to establish an e-Poshan Kendra, a CSR-supported partnership project that promotes healthy eating and lifestyle habits. The initiative addresses the issue of malnutrition and improving the health and well-being of the community. The center offers a variety of services, including nutrition counseling, cooking classes, and community gardening. Community members are encouraged to grow their own vegetables and learn how to prepare nutritious meals with locally available ingredients. The center introduced a digital platform that provides information on nutrition and healthy living. The e-Poshan Kendra has received positive feedback from the community, and its impact is reflected in the improved health and well-being of its members. Through this initiative, S M Sehgal Foundation and its partners promote healthy living and address the issue of malnutrition in rural India.

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Sustainable Development Goal 5 (SDG 5) aims to achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls. In India, achieving this goal has been a longstanding challenge due to deeply ingrained patriarchal attitudes, gender-based violence, and socioeconomic disparities.

Challenges in Achieving Gender Equality

The most significant challenges to achieving gender equality include the prevalence of gender-based violence and the lack of access to education and economic opportunities for women. In many parts of the country, cultural attitudes prioritize boys’ education over girls, resulting in lower enrollment rates for girls. Women’s participation in the formal workforce remains low, with limited access to formal employment opportunities, and gender-based discrimination prevails in the workplace.

The practice of child marriage and early childbearing in some communities limits girls’ educational and economic opportunities, perpetuating the cycle of poverty and gender inequality, which contributes to high maternal mortality rates and other health challenges for women.

The COVID-19 pandemic further aggravated these challenges, with women facing disproportionate impact due to the pandemic’s economic and social fallout. Women’s job losses have been higher than men’s, and the closure of schools led to increased caregiving responsibilities for women, affecting their ability to participate in the workforce and/or pursue education.

Government Initiatives to Promote Gender Equality & Approaches to Empower Women

The Indian government has launched various initiatives and policies to promote gender equality and empower women. Some of the significant initiatives are:

Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao (Save the girl child, educate the girl child) is a flagship program launched in 2015 to promote the education of girls and address the issue of female foeticide. The program creates awareness about the importance of girls’ education and empowering them.

Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana is a savings scheme launched in 2015 to promote the financial security of the girl child. The scheme offers tax benefits and a higher interest rate on deposits to encourage parents to save for their daughters’ future.

Mahila E-Haat is an online platform launched in 2016 to promote women’s entrepreneurship and provide a platform for women to showcase their products and services. The platform provides a market for women entrepreneurs to sell their products and services and promote financial independence.

Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana is a scheme launched in 2016 to provide clean cooking fuel to women from economically weaker sections thereby improve women’s health. The scheme reduces indoor air pollution caused by the use of traditional cooking fuels, such as wood.

One-Stop Centres (OSCs) is a scheme launched in 2015 to provide support and assistance to women who are victims of violence. OSCs provide a range of services, including medical assistance, legal aid, and counseling.

Maternity Benefit Program is a scheme launched in 2017 to provide financial assistance to pregnant and lactating women. The scheme promotes the health and well-being of women and their children and reduces maternal and child mortality.

Women’s Reservation Bill, proposed by the government, seeks to reserve one-third of the seats in the Lok Sabha and state legislative assemblies for women. The bill will increase women’s political representation and participation in decision-making.

S M Sehgal Foundation & Its Contributions

S M Sehgal Foundation is a nonprofit organization established in 1999 by Dr. S M Sehgal, a visionary philanthropist, and entrepreneur, and his wife Edda Sehgal. The foundation vision and mission promote sustainable rural development that respects human dignity, protects the environment, and promotes social justice. The foundation teams and partners work with communities in rural India to build their capacities and help them achieve self-reliance.

The foundation’s programs focus on a range of issues, including Agricultural Development, Water Management, Rural Education in India, Women’s Empowerment, etc. S M Sehgal Foundation promotes sustainable and equitable development, and has made a significant impact in improving the lives of thousands of people in rural communities.

S M Sehgal Foundation promotes gender equality in agriculture in India by providing training and support to women farmers. Women make up a significant proportion of the agricultural workforce in India but often face social and economic barriers that limit their participation and decision-making in farming activities. The foundation’s efforts address these challenges and promote greater gender equality in agriculture.

To achieve this, the foundation has developed several programs that focus on building the capacities of women farmers, promoting their participation in decision-making processes, and increasing their access to resources and services. These programs include Women Farmers Clubs and Women’s Leadership, which provide training and support to women farmers on a range of issues, including organic farming, water management, and livestock rearing.

S M Sehgal Foundation has been improving women’s health in rural areas of India, recognizing that health is a key factor in promoting gender equity and empowerment. Women in rural India face significant challenges in accessing healthcare services, including limited resources, lack of information, and cultural barriers. To address these challenges, the foundation developed several programs that focus on improving women’s access to healthcare services and promoting health and nutrition awareness.

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Sustainable Development Goal 3 aims to ensure a healthy life and well-being for all human beings on the planet. These outcomes are important at all stages of life. Specific goals of SDG3 address priorities related to health, e.g., reproductive, maternal, and child health, and all diseases. Further, it looks to ensure universal health coverage and access to affordable medicines and vaccines.

SDG 3 aims to prevent disease across the world. It focuses on countries and marginalized population groups that have a high disease burden.

Nutritional Issues in Young Children: The Indian Context

Nutrition is a major concern in children, especially in rural India. Some of the most common nutritional issues faced by children in rural India include:

Importance of Child Nutrition in Rural India

Despite considerable progress, child nutrition remains of utmost importance in rural India. Further work is needed to tackle child malnutrition and related health problems that are widespread in these areas.
Promoting healthy nutrition behavior is crucial for children. Benefits are:

Addressing and promoting nutrition issues has a synergistic effect and results in better overall productivity. The economic development of rural areas is directly benefited by healthy nutrition.

The need of the hour is to address the issue of child nutrition in rural India. This can be made with improving access to nutritious food, increased awareness of the importance of a balanced diet, and promotion of hygiene and sanitation practices. The result will be a healthy child who can develop into a productive member of society. The future of sustainable development of these rural communities is dependent on achieving the goals of SDG3

Nutrition Programs by the Indian Government

With less than ten years left to achieve SDG 3, India is now entering into the “Decade of Action.” This is translating into focused actions by the government through partnerships with civil society, the private sector, and other stakeholders.

Several nutrition programs have been implemented in rural India to address the issue of malnutrition and related health problems in young children. Some of these:

Several other government-sponsored programs include the Special Nutrition Program (SNP); Wheat Based Nutrition Program (WNP); Applied Nutrition Programs (ANP); Balwadi Nutrition Program (BNP); National Nutritional Anemia Prophylaxis Program (NNAPP); National Program for Prevention of Blindness due to Vitamin A Deficiency; and National Goiter Control Program (NGCP).

These interventions are targeted toward children and are important steps in improving the nutritional status of young children in rural India. Addressing the issue of nutrition in young children helps to ensure that they grow up healthy and develop into productive members of society.

S M Sehgal Foundation: Working for Sustainable Rural Development

S M Sehgal Foundation (SMSF)has been promoting sustainable community-led rural development in India since 1999. SMSF creates sustainable programs to address rural India’s most pressing needs with program areas that include Water Management, Agriculture Development, Local Participation, and Sustainability, Transform Lives one school at a time, and Outreach for Development. These programs are supported by a skilled research team that engages in participatory research, impact assessment, and interactive dialogues to determine informed actions to achieve sustainable results.

The Local Participation and Sustainability Program works with rural communities to promote good hygiene and sanitation in villages, improve awareness of preventive and remedial healthcare, and encourage the adoption of safe hygiene practices through behavior–-change campaigns.

Project Vriddhi

As part of the vision of strengthening community-led rural development for positively impacting the lives of people, Nestlé India in collaboration with S M Sehgal Foundation launched the second phase of Project Vriddhi. This three-year-old project was launched in 2019 in the village of Rohira in Nuh district, Haryana. In its second phase, the initiative expanded to the villages of Naharpur and Gabanspur in Punhana block, Nuh, to improve the lives of the locals through holistic rural development.

Project Vriddhi focuses on an integrated approach to well-being, including education, sanitation, water conservation, and improving farm livelihoods. The initiative has touched the lives of 1,500 beneficiaries to date, promoting water-saving irrigation practices, digital literacy, and a life skills education center, increasing awareness of nutrition, enhancing farm productivity, and providing a healthy learning environment in schools by improving hygiene and sanitation practices.

Conclusion

Promoting healthy nutritional behavior in young children is critical for achieving Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3 in India. Some strategies:

By following these, the goals of SDG 3, could be realized in the “Decade of Action”.

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“We believe that business and nonprofit organizations must work together to create sustainable social change. Only by combining the strengths and expertise of both sectors can we make a significant impact.”~ Ford Foundation

Innovative thinking is required to find solutions for social issues in a large and complex environment such as India. This has to come from a host of stakeholders including NGOs, the government, the private sector, and civil society. The confluence of ideas can only be translated into action when these groups are connected with common goals, leading to synergy. Positive outcomes are achieved when ideas are shared and relationships are formed, leading to a building of trust.

Challenges And Impediments for Achieving SDG 3 in India

Ensuring good health and well-being for all and achieving goals in a large country such as India is fraught with challenges. A large population, varying social norms and cultures, and availability of resources place impediments that require partnerships. The state, on its part, continues to play a proactive role in achieving the goals as set under the SDG 3. However, it faces challenges that require a collective effort to overcome these obstacles.

Tackling these challenges requires a multi-pronged and collaborative approach by key stakeholders including NGOs and the private sector. Targeted interventions are the need of the hour along with sustained investments in healthcare to address health issues and achieve the goals of SDG3.

Achieving SDG3 Goals The India Story

Significant progress so far in achieving Sustainable Development Goal 3 in recent years includes key interventions and achievements such as:

While these initiatives demonstrate the government’s commitment to improving health outcomes in the country, there is still much work to be done. The goal of addressing challenges and achieving SDG 3 in its entirety has a dimension that requires non-state players such as NGOs and corporates to contribute to addressing the cause.

Corporate-NGO Partnerships How They Can Help In The Vision

Corporate-NGO partnerships are critical to achieving SDG 3 in India. They can be a supplement to the efforts of the state, and partnerships can be leveraged to realize the goals of SDG 3.

Several corporate-NGO partnerships in India are working toward achieving SDG 3. Some are:

These demonstrate the potential for collaboration between the private sector and NGOs to improve healthcare outcomes and promote well-being for all.

S M Sehgal Foundation: Contributing to SDG3

S M Sehgal Foundation (Sehgal Foundation) has been working since 1999 to improve the quality of life of rural communities in India. A rural development NGO, S M Sehgal Foundation was established as a public-charitable trust to create and implement sustainable programs to address rural India’s most pressing needs. Main program areas: Water Management, Agriculture Development, Local Participation, and Sustainability, Transform Lives one school at a time, and Outreach for Development. These programs are supported by a skilled research team that engages in participatory research, impact assessment, and interactive dialogues to determine informed actions to achieve sustainable results.

The S M Sehgal Foundation is working toward achieving SDG 3 by focusing on improving access to healthcare services in underserved communities. Some of its initiatives in this regard:

S M Sehgal Foundation continues to make a significant contribution to the achievement of SDG 3 in India. Improving access to healthcare services and promoting healthy behaviors is helping to ensure good health and well-being for all.

As a rural development NGO, S M Sehgal Foundation functions on a social business model. Some key components of its efforts are in the area of

S M Sehgal Foundation is helping India achieve its mission of improving access to healthcare services in underserved communities in India and increasing the potential for collective action to achieve SDG 3 in India.

Corporate-NGO partnerships for healthcare in India are a powerful tool to address the healthcare needs of underserved populations. S M Sehgal Foundation is helping to bridge the gaps in the system through its expertise and the ability to reach a wider rural audience. Working together with corporates helps in synergizing the requirements of resources, on-the-ground knowledge, and community connections.

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Universal health is key to the economic and social progress of society in general. The concept is not driven by considerations of boundaries; rather it helps to ensure that all human beings, irrespective of their income, have access to quality health services. This effort is dependent on an efficient health system that provides need-based, on-demand services.

Universal health for all is important as it provides the basis of a robust society that can lead to:

The Background of SDG3

The United Nations introduced the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in 2015, realizing the need for a peaceful and inclusive world. The SDGs are a universal call to end poverty and protect the planet in a peaceful and prosperous environment. The 17 goals are interdependent and have specific targets and indicators.

SDG 3 is a global goal that look to ensure health and promote well-being for everyone. This is referred to as the “Health and Well-being” goal.

SDG 3 focuses on good health and well-being as essential for individuals, communities, and nations to enable everyone to thrive and achieve their potential. The idea behind SDG 3 is that good health is a fundamental human right and a prerequisite for sustainable development. Therefore, investing in health and well-being will achieve increased productivity, economic growth, and social stability. This in turn will help to reduce poverty reduction and the promote an equitable society.

The specific objectives of SDG 3:

Some important specific targets of SDG 3 include reducing maternal and child mortality, tackling infectious diseases, and ensuring universal access to sexual and reproductive health and rights. SDG 3 also promotes access to sexual and reproductive healthcare services such as family planning and information through the integration of reproductive health into national programs.

SDG-3 and the Indian Story

SDG 3 is particularly important for India, given the challenges faced by its large and diverse population. Despite significant economic progress, India has faced challenges of equity and lack of access to quality health services, particularly in rural areas. With a rise in noncommunicable diseases such as heart disease, cancer, and diabetes, the need to address health as a determinant of progress was strongly felt. Due to an archaic patriarchal society, maternal and child health was also often neglected. Thus it was important for policymakers to look at reducing maternal and neonatal mortality, and improve nutrition and nutritional deficiencies among children and women.

India has come a long way in achieving SDG 3. Some of the path-breaking initiatives taken by the government in this regard:

Promoting Health Awareness

S M Sehgal Foundation (Sehgal Foundation), a sustainable rural development NGO in India, has worked since 1999 to improve the quality of life in rural communities in India. As a rural development NGO, S M Sehgal Foundation has a skilled and dedicated team that creates sustainable programs to address rural India’s most pressing needs: S M Sehgal Foundation program areas are Water Management; Agriculture Development; Local Participation and Sustainability; Transform Lives one school at a time, and Outreach for Development. The programs are supported by a skilled research team that engages in participatory research, impact assessment, and interactive dialogues to determine informed actions to achieve sustainable results.

Establishment of E-Poshan Kendra: A Message for a Healthy Lifestyle

In June 2021, S M Sehgal Foundation began the implementation of a CSR-supported partnership initiative in district Nuh, Haryana. This integrated village development project works on water, education, health, sanitation, nutrition, and agriculture. The project included the setup of a Village Development Committee (VDC) in the project village to oversee the initiatives and sustain them for the future.

In October 2021, the project team initiated the endeavor to transform a choupal into an E-Poshan Kendra (E-nutrition center).

By January 2022, the choupal transformation was completed. Solar panels were installed in the E-Poshan Kendra for a sustainable source of energy. Community women became keenly interested in the E-Poshan Kendra and started regularly attending the training sessions held there on nutrition and a balanced diet.

Gradually the E-Poshan Kendra became a hub of information provision on good nutrition practices, sanitation, as well as on key government services. E-Poshan Kendra provides structured training to village women, and showcases thematic films and inspirational stories on sanitation and nutrition. Vaccination drives for village children were also organized in this center.

The Way Forward

India faces several challenges in achieving SDGs.

Insufficient funding is a major challenge to achieving SDG 3. Robust health systems require sustained investment to ensure that they are well equipped to deliver quality healthcare services to all. Addressing the challenges requires a comprehensive approach involving health, education, finance, and the environment.

Government initiatives, sufficient funding, and effective Public-Private Partnerships are critical to achieving SDG 3 and ensuring that all people enjoy the benefits of quality healthcare, health, and well-being.

Going forward, achieving SDG 3 in India is essential for better health and well-being and for removing disparities. This will help build a sustainable and equitable society. The vision of becoming a true economic superpower will be achieved once India’s population is healthy.

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Introduction

Sustainable Development Goal 2 (SDG2) is one of the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) adopted in 2015. The goal is to end hunger, achieve food security, and improve nutrition, and promote sustainable agriculture. The goal:

The goal also is to achieve these targets through partnerships and promote the participation of all stakeholders, including government, private sector, civil society, and communities. Moreover, it aims to achieve gender equality, reduce poverty and inequality, and increase the participation of smallholder farmers and fishers, particularly women, indigenous peoples, family farmers, pastoralists and fishers.

What are the Challenges in Achieving Food Security in Rural India?

Achieving SDG2 is crucial for the well-being of individuals and the sustainable development of communities and countries. Food security is a fundamental human right, and essential for the physical and mental health of individuals, as well as for their social and economic well-being.

Achieving food security in rural India is a complex and multifaceted issue that is affected by a range of social, economic, and environmental factors. Some of the key challenges in achieving food security in rural India:

These challenges can only be overcome by implementing a comprehensive and coordinated approach that addresses the underlying causes of food insecurity. This includes increasing agricultural productivity, improving access to markets and infrastructure, promoting sustainable agricultural practices, and providing support and education to farmers. Additionally, the government should work with communities, the private sector, and civil society to ensure that the initiatives are implemented effectively and reach the intended beneficiaries.

How SDG2 can be Achieved in Rural India?

Improving food security and nutrition, promoting sustainable agriculture, and building resilient livelihoods, are key to ending hunger in rural areas and improving the overall well-being of the population. In rural India, there are several ways that SDG2 can be achieved.

Initiatives taken by the Government of India to Achieve SDG2

The Indian government has implemented several initiatives to ensure food security in the country. Some of the key initiatives are-

These initiatives are aimed at ensuring that all citizens have access to food and nutrition, and supports the farmers by providing them with better prices for their produce, financial assistance, and access to markets. The government continues to monitor and evaluate these programs to ensure their effectiveness and make necessary changes.

Ensuring Food Security

This section of the blog will give you a peek in to how companies, in partnership with the S M Sehgal Foundation work toward ensuring food security, and promoting technology in agriculture and sustainable development.

The Agricultural Development Program at S M Sehgal Foundation promotes sustainable livelihoods and builds the capacities of farmers by leveraging improved agricultural interventions and new technologies. They worked with small-holder farmers to facilitate the adoption of advanced agricultural practices, including soil health management, input-use efficiency, horticultural development, crop production management, small farm mechanization, water-efficient irrigation techniques, livestock management, and the use of information and communication technology (ICT) in agricultural development.

Promoting sustainable agriculture practices among smallholder farmers

With a large percentage of India’s population still dependent on agriculture as their primary source of income and among them majority being small-scale farmers, the lack of awareness on latest techniques and also the financial crunch to develop or install latest infrastructure is a worrisome reality.

Large number of small-scale farmers continue to adopt old techniques that lead to continuous depletion of soil quality, depriving them of the maximum potential and benefits they can reap by working on their lands.

To fill this lacuna of information and infrastructure, Mosaic India Private Limited stepped in and supports such farmers in partnership with S M Sehgal Foundation. The project began in two villages in 2008. As of July 2022, it has directly impacted the lives of 150,501 families in 155 villages across three states, showcasing a case for promoting sustainable agriculture practices among smallholder farmers in rural hinterlands, which can be replicated to other parts of the country.

The solutions offered under the project address multiple dimensions of rural society, including agriculture development (soil health, balanced crop nutrition, and agriculture advice); water management (augmentation and conservation); and education (school transformation and upgrades).

The project carries a decade-rich of experiences in mitigating low-yield agriculture into a remunerative and profitable activity and improving awareness among the farming community regarding modern agricultural techniques and water management practices that continue to the present day helping fulfill the goals of No Poverty and Zero Hunger under SDGs.

Read the more stories of S M Sehgal Foundation working to achieve food security, and achieve SDG2 in rural India!

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Introduction

The United Nations adopted the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in 2015, intending to end poverty by 2030 and ensure a peaceful and prosperous existence for all. The clarion call was to ensure that “no one on the planet was left behind.” There were 17 SDGs in all, supporting major essentials of human development. However, the most fundamental Goal, (1) aimed to “end poverty in all its forms everywhere,” was the central driving force behind this aspirational vision.

It was understood that all 17 SDGs are integrated and interdependent. Achieving positive action in one would affect outcomes in others, and the aim was to achieve development that balanced social, economic, and environmental sustainability.

Goal No.1- END POVERTY

The SDGs look to end poverty in all forms and dimensions by 2030. This entails targeting vulnerable sections of society, improving accessibility to basic resources and services, and supporting those affected by conflict and climate disasters.

The world is endowed with vast water resources including lakes, rivers, and aquifers. However, this precious resource has been degraded and overutilized, leading to a water crisis. Given the SDGs, synthesizing the importance of water is key to development. Thus to realize the SDGs, it is critical to recognize the centrality of water as a resource. Water has the potential to contribute to various economic sectors such as agricultural and livestock production, energy, manufacturing and processing, tourism, health, fisheries, and trade.

Water as a resource is ubiquitous. As such, it is recognized by the adage “Water is life.”

Water is a universal component of every living being and the importance to human life. Water is a major driver of human economic and social expediency and is a leading driver of economic development. On the flip side, it is also a source of contention and conflict.

SDG #6 looks at making clean water and sanitation accessible to all. Water has a central role to play in poverty reduction and tackling inequality among other goals. Water, therefore, has an overlapping role to play in achieving the SDGs.

What is the Importance of Water in the Entire Life Cycle?

Besides all the above, water is a key element in marine life, tourism, and a host of other areas, and has a direct bearing on the economic development of India. It is, therefore, a central resource for achieving the lofty goals of sustainable development not only in India but the entire world.

On a grassroots level, some of the considerations to take this vision forward can be in the following areas:

Water: The Way to Poverty Reduction

Achieving water security is a prerequisite to long-term sustainable development. At the household level, water security refers to “access by all individuals at all times to sufficient safe water for a healthy and productive life.” Country-specific water security is understood to be “the availability of an acceptable quantity and quality of water for health, livelihoods, ecosystems, and production, coupled with an acceptable level of water-related risks to people, environments, and economies.”

Water security is important in achieving SDGs, and failure can lead to serious economic loss compounded over time. The time has come to reduce risks and ensure a basic supply of water for productive and other purposes. This in turn will create a firmer foundation for development.

Policy action is required to give higher priority to investments in water in ways that strongly support the most fundamental Goal (1) to “end poverty in all its forms everywhere.” Efforts to integrate water interventions into the sustainable rural development agenda are the need of the hour.

S M Sehgal Foundation: Leading the Way in Water Management in India

S M Sehgal Foundation (Sehgal Foundation) has been working since 1999 to improve the quality of life of the rural communities in India. A sustainable rural development NGO in India. S M Sehgal Foundation’s main program areas are Water Management, Agriculture Development, Local Participation and Sustainability, Transform Lives one school at a time, and Outreach for Development.

The Water Management program by S M Sehgal Foundation works with communities to harvest and store rainwater for direct use, and/or replenish groundwater by building and restoring infrastructure in villages. It supports the revival of traditional water bodies, construction of water storage infrastructure, and safe disposal of wastewater. It promotes safe drinking water for all with innovative low-cost, sustainable technologies and WASH behavior. It creates awareness about the need for water conservation and builds the capacities of local communities for better management and long-term sustainability of their water resources. The program seeks opportunities to collaborate for continuous improvement and replication of low-cost water management interventions.

Check Dam Revives Water Table

Guwada is a village in Chula panchayat, Alwar district, Rajasthan. The 350 families who live here are entirely dependent on agriculture for livelihood.

During the monsoon, a rainwater stream flows through Guwada’s Panchayati land. This Panchayati land was in the form of a rainy river with a depth of about eleven feet. In Sodawas village, the stream merges with the Sabi River. The rainwater stream flowed straight across and out of Guwada and did not benefit the villagers in any way.

In December 2020, the team under a CSR-supported partnership project, implemented by S M Sehgal Foundation, approached the members of Chula panchayat and the community of Guwada with a proposal to construct a check dam across this stream, so that the rainwater would accumulate in it and recharge the groundwater. This proposal was enthusiastically accepted by the people who understood that the depleting groundwater level was a problem for them.

The check dam construction began in December 2020 and was completed in April 2021. During the monsoon season, the villagers observed that the check dam, which was of a capacity of 33 million liters (about 5 feet in depth) filled up and emptied four times, implying that about 132 million liters of water had percolated into the ground. The three farmers whose homes are close to the check dam reported that the water level in their wells had come up by about thirty feet. The water level at a depth of about 125 feet earlier came down to about 95 feet. The villagers were enthused upon observing these results and realized this was an investment for their future. Agriculture in the area has benefited from the rise in the water table, and this has a long-term potential to address the problem of water runoff by harnessing it.

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