Adoption of Sustainable Development Goals for Equitable Water Distribution in India: Promoting Inter-State Harmony and Streamlining River Water Dispute Adjudication

Abstract

Water scarcity and inter-state river water disputes pose persistent challenges to India’s federal structure and sustainable development. Despite constitutional mechanisms and tribunal-based adjudication, conflicts over river water sharing continue to strain inter-state relations and delay equitable allocation. This paper argues that the systematic adoption of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)[1], particularly SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation) and SDG 16 (Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions), can provide a more equitable, transparent, and cooperative framework for water distribution in India. By integrating sustainability principles, data-driven governance, and institutional reform, SDG-aligned policies can streamline adjudication processes, reduce conflict, and promote harmony among Indian states.