Discuss the impact of rapid urbanization on the social fabric of Indian cities. How can urban planning and governance be made more inclusive and sustainable?

Rapid urbanization has had a profound impact on the social fabric of Indian cities, presenting both opportunities and challenges. India’s urban population has grown from 27.8% in 2001 to 34.9% in 2021 (Census of India), putting immense pressure on urban infrastructure, services, and social cohesion.

• Urbanization has led to the emergence of slums and informal settlements, where a significant proportion of the urban poor reside. A 2011 study by the National Sample Survey Office (NSSO) found that 65 million people, or 17.4% of the urban population, lived in slums.
• The influx of migrants from rural areas has contributed to the erosion of traditional social networks and the emergence of new forms of social organization based on shared experiences of marginalization and resilience.
• Rapid urbanization has also exacerbated socio-economic inequalities, with the urban poor facing challenges in accessing basic services like healthcare, education, and sanitation. A 2019 report by the World Bank found that only 56% of urban households in India had access to piped water supply.

To make urban planning and governance more inclusive and sustainable, a participatory and decentralized approach is needed. This involves empowering local governments and communities to play a greater role in urban decision-making and resource allocation.

• Inclusive urban planning should prioritize the needs of the urban poor and marginalized communities, ensuring their access to affordable housing, basic services, and livelihood opportunities. Towards this, the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Urban), launched in 2015, aims to provide affordable housing for all by 2022.
• Sustainable urban development requires the integration of environmental considerations into urban planning, such as promoting green spaces, sustainable transportation, and waste management.
• Strengthening urban governance involves promoting transparency, accountability, and citizen participation in urban decision-making. The 74th Constitutional Amendment Act, 1992, mandated the devolution of powers to urban local bodies, but its implementation has been uneven across states.

Ultimately, creating inclusive and sustainable cities requires a holistic and collaborative approach that engages diverse stakeholders, including government, civil society, private sector, and citizens. By prioritizing the needs of the most vulnerable and leveraging the potential of technology and innovation, Indian cities can become engines of equitable growth and social transformation.