If the first day of the new calendar year is an aptly solemn time to make resolution(s), as a state, for Arunachal, the list must be rather lengthy. But, however large in numbers they may be, they actually have a common character, which is to take the state forward by making amends of those areas which have so far brought terrible loss of face, if compared to national figures. Year 2019 had seen publication of various developmental reports by multiple agencies, and while searching Arunachal’s position, it had been a scrolling exercise extreme down the screen, almost in all cases. The penultimate day of the just-old year has churned out one such- the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) India Index 2019-20, developed by NITI Aayog has placed the state in the bracket of ‘worst performing states’ which, rank-wise is third from bottom. Now, the matter could have been concluded here with the repetition that it’s boring to hear such as it’s nothing new for the state. But that would be unjustified and brazen pessimism if figures are comparatively analysed, when it can be found that the state has actually improved its score from 51 in 2018 to 53 in 2019. Here lies the inspiration that should be derived and the point which should be taken due notice by policy makers. It implies that for taking the state to that desired levels of development, the processes employed thereto warrant some extra doses of inputs, which means expediting the works within their set-out deadlines. It might only be then, rankings will show signs of improvement. Giving that ‘extra’ and speed’ should be the motto to be religiously pursued all throughout 2020. If any resolution is to be taken by the state on the eve of new year, it should and must be this.

The Index is hugely important for any state or UT since it serves the vital purpose of reflecting true pictures of their current developmental standings, realise the deficiencies and most importantly, help in devising better strategies to achieve desirable targets. SDG India Index takes into account 16 out of the 17 goals specified by UN and this year, ranking has been calculated based on 54 targets. For Arunachal, there are some targets among the above where it has shown deep sliding and some where it has improved. For example, in ‘No Poverty’, it has been poor since the slip is steep from 2018’s  52 to 2019’s 34. Again in ‘Quality Education’ there has been commendable improvement from 2018’s  44 to 2019’s 58.

Whatever it might be, the state must prioritise in rectifying drawbacks first and then improve further in all remaining fronts. If there are extra inputs of energy and determination, it’s very well possible. Do it now - let this be the driving force for Arunachal in 2020.