Sustainable development and governance are closely interlinked concepts that together shape the path of societies toward balanced economic growth, social justice, and environmental protection. Sustainable development refers to a pattern of development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. Governance, particularly in the context of decentralisation and local governance, provides the institutional framework, processes, and mechanisms through which sustainable development goals can be planned, implemented, and monitored in an inclusive and accountable manner. The idea of sustainable development emerged as a response to the limitations of growth-centric development models that prioritized economic expansion without adequate concern for social equity and environmental degradation. It emphasizes the integration of three core dimensions: economic sustainability, which focuses on efficient and equitable use of resources and long-term economic viability; social sustainability, which stresses human development, equity, inclusion, and social justice; and environmental sustainability, which seeks to protect ecosystems, conserve biodiversity, and maintain ecological balance. These dimensions are interdependent, and progress in one cannot be achieved at the expense of the others. Governance plays a decisive role in translating the principles of sustainable development into practical outcomes. Governance refers to the way power is exercised in the management of public affairs, including the formulation of policies, allocation of resources, and enforcement of rules. Good governance is characterized by participation, transparency, accountability, responsiveness, effectiveness, rule of law, and equity. In the context of sustainable development, governance ensures that development policies are inclusive, long-term oriented, environmentally responsible, and socially just. Decentralisation and local governance are particularly significant for sustainable development because they bring decision-making closer to the people and local ecosystems. Decentralisation involves the transfer of powers, functions, and resources from central governments to lower levels of government such as states, districts, municipalities, and village councils. Local governance institutions, being closer to local communities, are better positioned to understand local needs, priorities, and environmental conditions. This proximity enables more context-specific planning and implementation of development initiatives that align with sustainability goals. At the local level, sustainable development requires participatory planning processes that actively involve citizens, community-based organizations, and marginalized groups. Local governance institutions such as Panchayati Raj Institutions and urban local bodies play a crucial role in facilitating grassroots participation. Through mechanisms like gram sabhas, ward committees, and local consultations, citizens can voice their needs and contribute to decisions related to resource management, infrastructure development, social welfare, and environmental protection. Such participatory governance enhances social sustainability by promoting