On New Year’s Day, the United Nations announced the launch of the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals, which was adopted unanimously by 193 heads of state and other top leaders at a summit in September, PTI reported. It includes 17 goals and 169 targets to wipe out poverty, fight inequality and tackle climate change over the next 15 years.

India’s role is deemed critical for the success of the SDGs, considering the country's 1.4 billion population. Before the SDGs came into effect, India had pointed out initiatives already launched by its government, such as Make in India, Digital India, Smart Cities and Skills India. It said the initiatives aim to boost economic development and manufacturing in the country, which in turn will improve the standard of living of millions.

The SDGs are expected to accomplish what the 15-year cycle of the Millennium Development Goals that ended in 2015 could not. This includes eradicating extreme poverty and hunger, achieving universal primary education, promoting gender equality, reducing child mortality and ensuring environmental sustainability.