Measuring Governance through the 5P Sustainability Index: A Block-Level Assessment Model for India

Abstract Current sustainability assessment models rarely extend to territorial governance and constituency-based development. This research introduces the 5P Sustainability Index (5PSI) as a tool for evaluating block-level governance performance across India. The 5P framework measures outcomes for People, Planet, Prosperity, Peace, and Partnership, integrating both quantitative and qualitative indicators. The study aligns the framework with global standards such as the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), India’s Panchamrit COP26 commitments, and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles. A pilot application in Javad block, Madhya Pradesh demonstrates the model's effectiveness. The findings indicate that the 5P framework can enhance accountability, evidence-based policy, and comparative benchmarking among governance units across India.