"Without the inclusion of poor in the development agenda, the idea of development cannot be sustainable." Comment.

Sustainable development is a program for achieving human development goals that meet the needs of the present without affecting the ability of future generations to meet their own needs in terms of natural resources and ecosystem services. It considers both the present and future generations without overexploitation of natural resources and environmental damage.

Focus areas

Sustainable Development Goals mainly focus on sustainable agriculture; sustainable economic development; sustainable energy for long term use; technology for sustainable development; sustainable transport for social and economic benefits and ultimately the poverty alleviation.

Inclusion of poor

The development agenda and the idea of development cannot be sustainable until the poor are included in the program. Sustainable development has the ability to reduce poverty through balanced budgeting; creating a suitable environment for the living; income equality, etc.

• It will enhance the overall productivity and human capital generation through the provision of income and social services and creating more socially inclusive societies.
• The inclusion of the poor can help to eradicate poverty and lead to more equitable and inclusive outcomes.
• Equal rights for the poor and the vulnerable on economic resources, basic services, ownership, inheritance, technology will ensure the smooth functioning of the program.
• Mobilization of resources to execute programs and policies to end poverty in all its dimensions.

Comment

One of the Sustainable Development Goals listed by the United Nations is poverty alleviation. The term sustainability itself denotes a holistic approach and temporal processes of development with the pledge of “Leave No One Behind”. The development will only be sustainable when the inclusion of the poor will be considered.