In an important step towards accelerating progress on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), NITI Aayog and UNDP India strengthened their commitment by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).This MoU serves as a formal agreement, outlining the collaborative framework between the two entities.
The MoU symbolizes cooperation in several key areas
- Localizing the SDGs: The partnership underlines the importance of bringing the SDGs to the grassroots level, ensuring their effective implementation and impact.
- Data-driven monitoring: Using data as a powerful tool, the Coalition aims to enhance Monitoring and evaluation of SDG progress.
- Empowering Aspirational Districts and Blocks: Cooperative efforts extend to empowering and uplifting specific areas designated as Aspirational Districts and Blocks.
- Diverse Collaborative Initiatives: The partnership includes a wide range of collaborative projects and initiatives contributing to overall development.
Signatories to the MoU
- NITI Aayog CEO B. V. R. Subrahmanyam
- Dr. Yogesh Suri, Senior Advisor (SDG), NITI Aayog
- Shoko Noda, UNDP India Local Representative
UNDP’s Pledge of Progress
- Shoko Noda, UNDP India’s local representative, emphasized the organization’s dedication. He acknowledged India’s important role in making the SDGs a reality, citing significant reduction in multidimensional poverty.
- The scope of the partnership includes SDG localisation, data-driven decision making and promotion of various programs like Aspirational Districts and Block Initiative, SDG financing, women’s livelihoods, innovation and Mission LiFE.
Period of Cooperation
- The MoU establishes a five-year cooperation period.
- During this period, joint efforts between NITI Aayog and UNDP India will be engaged in various developmental initiatives and projects.
Roles of NITI Aayog and UNDP
- NITI Aayog plays the role of the key coordination body for SDG implementation and monitoring at both national and sub-national levels.
- Conversely, UNDP takes on the important responsibility of integrating and harmonizing actions within the UN system to accelerate progress towards the SDGs.