Authors: Nagaraja.B G, Dr.M.P. Somashekar
Abstract: The global commitment to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030 represents a unified effort to eradicate poverty, reduce inequality, promote health and education, and protect the environment. As one of the most populous nations, India plays a critical role in the success of the SDG agenda. However, the country faces numerous challenges in implementing these goals effectively. Key barriers include inadequate funding, lack of reliable and disaggregated data, weak monitoring mechanisms, and socio-political complexities that hinder equitable development. In this context, social work emerges as a crucial force in addressing the human-centric dimensions of sustainable development. This paper critically analyzes the obstacles India faces in attaining SDGs and examines how social work as a profession, rooted in principles of justice, participation, and empowerment, can contribute meaningfully to the SDG framework. Drawing on secondary data from research articles, government documents, and global reports, the study identifies gaps in policy implementation and suggests practical strategies for strengthening indicator development, resource mobilization, and participatory governance. The paper also highlights how social workers can act as facilitators, advocates, and change agents within communities, especially among vulnerable and marginalized populations. Ethical considerations such as inclusive participation, cultural sensitivity, and transparency are emphasized as foundational principles in social work interventions related to the SDGs. The study concludes that the integration of social work into SDG implementation efforts can foster more resilient, just, and sustainable communities, thereby contributing to both national and global development goals.
DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.17616427
