Report of working group on urban, poverty, slums and delivery system
Introduction: The Growing Challenge of Urban Poverty in India
Urban poverty is a pressing issue that has gained significant attention in recent years, particularly in developing nations like India. Historically, the focus of policymakers and planners in India was predominantly on rural development, given the agrarian nature of the economy and the overwhelming rural population. However, with rapid urbanization and economic transformation, urban poverty has emerged as a critical concern. While rural poverty remains a significant challenge, the rise of slums, inadequate infrastructure, and limited access to basic services in urban areas have highlighted the need for comprehensive strategies to address urban poverty. This article delves into the evolution of policies targeting urban poverty in India, examines the challenges faced, and explores the current initiatives aimed at alleviating this growing issue.
Section 1: Historical Context of Urban Poverty in India
The roots of poverty in India can be traced back to the early days of the country’s planning process. During the First Five-Year Plan (1951-1956), the primary emphasis was on agriculture and rural development. Urban development was largely driven by industrial growth, with limited attention paid to the socio-economic conditions of urban dwellers. Social services such as health and education were provided to urban populations, but these efforts were overshadowed by the concerted focus on rural India.
For several decades, poverty was not explicitly recognized as a distinct policy concern. It was only during the Seventh Five-Year Plan (1985-1990) that urban issues began to gain prominence. This period marked a shift towards addressing urban challenges, including infrastructure development, environmental improvement (such as slum upgrading), and livelihood promotion. Subsequent plans continued to increase allocations for urban development, reflecting a growing acknowledgment of the importance of cities as engines of economic growth.
One of the most significant milestones in addressing poverty came with the launch of the Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission (JNNURM) during the Tenth Five-Year Plan (2002-2007). JNNURM represented the first comprehensive attempt to tackle poverty through a holistic approach, encompassing infrastructure development, housing, and social services. Despite its ambitious goals, the performance of JNNURM has been mixed, with challenges such as uneven implementation and insufficient funding persisting. Nevertheless, it laid the foundation for future urban development initiatives.
External Link: Planning Commission of India – Five Year Plans
Section 2: The Urban-Rural Divide in Policy Allocation
Despite the increasing recognition of poverty, there remains a significant disparity in budgetary allocations between rural and urban sectors. For instance, during the current plan period, per capita expenditure on the urban sector stands at Rs. 1,566, which is significantly lower than the Rs. 7,433 allocated per capita for rural development. This disparity reflects the historical bias towards rural areas, which were home to the majority of India’s population until recently.
In the past, the focus on rural development was justified due to the large proportion of the population living in villages and the agrarian nature of the economy. However, the economic landscape has undergone a dramatic transformation over the decades. India has transitioned from a predominantly agrarian economy to one driven by manufacturing and services. This shift has led to increased migration to urban areas, resulting in rapid urbanization and the emergence of new challenges, such as overcrowding, inadequate housing, and insufficient access to basic amenities.
External Link: World Bank – Urbanization in India
Section 3: Urbanization Trends and Future Projections
India is part of a global trend where an increasing number of people are moving to urban areas in search of better opportunities. Over the last six decades, both the number of towns and the absolute urban population in India have grown steadily. According to census data, the share of the urban population in India increased from 17.3% in 1951 to 31.16% in 2011. Projections suggest that by 2030, India’s urban population could reach approximately 590-600 million, accounting for nearly 40% of the total population.
This rapid urbanization presents both opportunities and challenges. On the one hand, cities are engines of economic growth, contributing significantly to GDP and employment generation. On the other hand, the influx of migrants into urban areas has exacerbated existing problems, such as the proliferation of slums, inadequate infrastructure, and environmental degradation. Addressing these challenges requires a multi-pronged approach that combines infrastructure development, social inclusion, and sustainable urban planning.
External Link: UN-Habitat – Urbanization and Development
Section 4: Current Initiatives and the Road Ahead
To address the growing issue of urban poverty, the Indian government has launched several initiatives in recent years. One notable example is the Smart Cities Mission, which aims to develop 100 smart cities across the country by leveraging technology and innovation to improve urban infrastructure and services. Another initiative is the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY), which seeks to provide affordable housing to all by 2022. These programs reflect a renewed commitment to tackling poverty and improving the quality of life for urban residents.
However, much more needs to be done to bridge the gap between urban and rural development. Key areas that require attention include enhancing access to basic services such as water, sanitation, and healthcare; promoting inclusive economic growth; and ensuring sustainable urban planning. Additionally, greater collaboration between central and state governments, as well as partnerships with private sector stakeholders and civil society organizations, will be crucial in achieving these goals.
External Link: Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs – Smart Cities Mission
Conclusion: A Call for Comprehensive Action
Urban poverty in India is a complex and multifaceted issue that demands urgent attention. While significant progress has been made in recognizing and addressing the challenges faced by urban dwellers, much work remains to be done. The transition from a rural-focused development model to one that prioritizes urban areas is essential to meet the needs of a rapidly urbanizing population. By investing in sustainable urban infrastructure, promoting inclusive growth, and fostering innovation, India can pave the way for a brighter future for its urban poor. The time to act is now, as the stakes are high and the consequences of inaction are profound.
External Link: Brookings Institution – Urban Poverty in India