Artificial Intelligence (AI) for Achieving SDGs

The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into sustainable development strategies has the potential to accelerate progress toward the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This study employs a qualitative, systematic literature review (SLR) supported by thematic analysis and bibliometric mapping to examine AI’s contributions across sectors, with a particular focus on the Indian context. The objectives include mapping sectorspecific AI applications to SDG targets, identifying ethical and governance challenges, exploring emerging technological convergences, and addressing key research and policy gaps.The findings reveal that AI significantly advances SDGs through applications in agriculture, energy, urban development, water management, and business, enhancing efficiency, resource optimization, and innovation. The integration of AI with emerging technologies—such as the Artificial Intelligence of Things (AIoT), blockchain, and FinTech—further amplifies sustainability outcomes. However, persistent challenges, including algorithmic bias, data privacy issues, governance limitations, and unequal access, impede equitable adoption. In India, AI adoption remains uneven due to infrastructure gaps, skill shortages, and limited regulatory frameworks. This study identifies critical gaps in the literature: the absence of integrated AI– SDG frameworks, limited longitudinal impact assessments, and insufficient context-specific research. The findings underscore the need for robust governance, capacity-building initiatives, and targeted policy measures to ensure that AI serves as an inclusive and effective driver of sustainable development.