Hindu Editorial Analysis : 25-July-2024
The recent budget has acknowledged cities as vital growth hubs in India, offering numerous opportunities for planned urban development. As urbanization accelerates, sustained investments are essential to foster growth with a clear vision and determination.
Recognizing the Urban Imperative
India’s urban landscape is changing rapidly. Currently, about 500 million people live in cities, making up 36% of the population. This shift highlights the urgent need for thoughtful planning and investment.
Challenges in Urban Transformation
Rapid Urbanization
- Population Growth: India’s urban population is increasing by 2% to 2.5% each year.
- Management Needs: Balancing infrastructure, housing, and services is crucial to support this growing population.
Infrastructure Deficits
- Inadequate Facilities: Many cities struggle with poor water supply, sanitation, and transportation.
- Key Initiatives: Programs like the Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT) aim to fill these gaps, but they require ongoing investment and efficient execution.
Housing Shortages
- Affordable Housing: Providing housing for all, particularly the economically weaker sections, remains a challenge.
- Slums and Informal Settlements: Many urban residents live in slums, lacking basic amenities, which makes transformation into sustainable neighborhoods difficult.
Environmental Sustainability
Urbanization places significant pressure on natural resources, necessitating sustainable practices in development.
Governance Challenges
Effective urban governance must involve coordination between local bodies, state governments, and central authorities. Strengthening institutions and improving transparency are essential for successful transformation.
Focus Areas Highlighted in the Budget
Housing Solutions
The Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) is crucial for providing housing to lower-income groups. The recent budget plans to construct an additional one crore housing units with an investment of ₹10 lakh crore. New rental housing options for migrant workers will also be introduced.
Core Infrastructure Development
Essential infrastructure such as water supply, sanitation, and roads is prioritized, with ₹8,000 crore allocated for these services under AMRUT. Public-private partnerships are encouraged to enhance infrastructure projects.
Urban Planning and Design
Transforming low-density areas into vibrant, mixed-use developments is vital. This includes:
- Green Spaces: Creating parks and recreational areas.
- Pedestrian-Friendly Designs: Ensuring accessibility for all.
- Adaptive Reuse: Revitalizing existing structures.
Sustainability Paradigm Shift
Urban development strategies must embrace sustainability. This includes:
- Efficient waste management
- Promoting green spaces
- Clean energy initiatives
Role of Citizens
Citizen engagement is critical for effective urban transformation. Involving communities in decision-making ensures that cities reflect the needs of their inhabitants.
Inclusive Development
Cities should cater to diverse populations, particularly vulnerable groups. Transit-oriented development plans can enhance accessibility and inclusivity.
Related Government Initiatives
National Urban Policy Framework (NUPF)
The NUPF provides a comprehensive approach to urban development, addressing areas such as:
- Urban Planning
- Housing and Affordability
- Transportation and Mobility
- Environmental Sustainability
This framework recognizes the need for significant investment—around $1.2 trillion—in urban infrastructure by 2030.
National Rural Infrastructure Development Agency (NRIDA)
While primarily focused on rural infrastructure, NRIDA sets high standards for road management, ensuring sustainable rural connectivity.
Why In News
The recent budget has recognized cities as vital growth hubs, offering numerous options and opportunities for planned development, as the accelerating pace of urbanization in India necessitates sustained investments guided by a clear vision and determination.
MCQs about Urban Growth in India
- What does the recent budget emphasize about cities in India?
A. They are declining in importance.
B. They are recognized as growth hubs.
C. They should be abandoned.
D. They have no impact on urbanization.
- Which initiative aims to address infrastructure deficits in Indian cities?
A. National Rural Infrastructure Development Agency (NRIDA)
B. Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT)
C. Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY)
D. Smart City Mission
- What is one of the key focuses of the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) ?
A. Promoting rural tourism
B. Providing affordable housing
C. Improving agricultural practices
D. Enhancing rural road networks
- Why is citizen participation important in urban transformation strategies?
A. It complicates the decision-making process.
B. It helps ensure that developments reflect the needs of the community.
C. It is not necessary for effective governance.
D. It delays project implementation.
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