Purpose – The study aims to map the integration of sustainable development goals (SDGs) into domestic legislation and higher education institution (HEI) policy frameworks, with a particular focus on India and Hungary. It seeks to assess the extent of SDG implementation by HEIs in both countries and provide a comparative perspective on their progress. Design/methodology/approach – A comparative analysis is conducted using both primary and secondary data sources. The study examines domestic policy frameworks and legislative measures relevant to SDGs, alongside the performance of HEIs in SDG implementation in India and Hungary. Findings – The study finds that India has had a harmonised and dedicated SDG framework for HEIs since 2020, whereas Hungary, despite having multiple policies and legislative initiatives aimed at SDGs, lacks such a unified framework for higher education. In both countries, substantial gaps remain in the performance of HEIs in achieving the SDGs. Originality/value – To the best of the authors' knowledge, this is the first cross-country comparative study that focuses specifically on the role of HEIs in the implementation of SDGs in India and Hungary. It contributes to closing the evidence and knowledge gap by highlighting how policy alignment can enhance institutional strategies and performance in sustainable development.