Indo-German sustainability project launched
The Green and Sustainable Development Partnership (GSDP) project was launched under Indo-German collaboration to accelerate the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) at the grassroots level. Himachal Pradesh, recognised for its exemplary work in SDG implementation, was chosen as the first state to pilot this initiative.
Chief Secretary Prabodh Saxena emphasised the state’s commitment to overcoming geographical and climate-related challenges in its pursuit of sustainable development. He highlighted Himachal’s significant progress in green initiatives and the role of the GSDP in enhancing capacity building, knowledge sharing and stakeholder engagement.
For 2024-25, the GSDP has planned workshops, webinars and awareness campaigns addressing renewable energy, e-mobility and water conservation. These initiatives aim to educate stakeholders at state and district levels, supported by informational materials and training sessions to identify resources for effective SDG implementation.
Dr Rajiv Kumar Sen, Senior Adviser to NITI Aayog, underscored the importance of grassroots efforts and applauded the state’s exceptional performance in the SDG India Index. He stressed the need for proactive collaboration among stakeholders to meet SDG targets.
Principal Secretary Planning Devesh Kumar urged close coordination with NITI Aayog and highlighted the formation of 11 working groups to ensure smooth execution of development schemes. The SDG Coordination and Accreditation Centre Foundation is expected to play a pivotal role in achieving these objectives.
Dr Gorald Goswami, Project Chairman of GSDP, detailed the Indo-German collaboration’s contributions to sustainable development. Presentations by Deputy Secretary NITI Aayog Hemant Kumar and Planning Department Principal Advisor Dr. Basu Sood outlined strategies for meeting SDG targets.
The initiative reinforces Himachal Pradesh’s leadership in sustainable development, providing a robust framework for addressing environmental challenges and promoting green growth.
