UN‐SDGs framework for child development in India: Evidence from a decentralized analysis

Abstract This article develops a framework to analyze and to assess the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN‐SDGs) related progress in child development in India, and to provide improved policy recommendations for sub‐national (state and district level) governments. District level analysis is based on a case study of Karnataka State (India). Status of India's children is described in global, national and sub‐national contexts. Child development is measured by 26 multi‐dimensional indicators comprising child health, nutrition, education, and protection and participation. Using the NITI Aayog's methodology of SDG India Index 2020–21, components' scores and composite index of child development are calculated and level of child development at national, state and district level is categorized by performer, front runner, achiever, and aspirant. Main results show that, both vertically and horizontally, low child development are related to poor performance of nutrition and education indicators in aspirational districts. However, focus on improving all 26 child development indicators is essential to reach the targets. The speed of convergence will be critical to reduce the time distance from now to 2030. Policy recommendations are focused to prioritize the public expenditure strategies in child budget for attainment of UN‐SDGs goals and targets by 2030, and to extend child budgeting to urban and rural local bodies. The empirical approach and policy recommendations are of relevance for other states in India, and applicable for countries elsewhere in the world.