Question : Urbanization in India

Will the Minister of HOUSING AND URBAN AFFAIRS be pleased to state:

(a) whether the standard prescriptions of governance reform such as transparency, accountability and consultation and involvement of the people remain ineffective in urbanization in the country;

(b) if so, the details thereof;

(c) whether India is facing immense challenges on account of its urbanization and if so, the details thereof;

(d) whether the Government has any effective mechanism to address these issues; and

(e) if so, the details thereof?

THE MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) OF THE
MINISTRY OF HOUSING AND URBAN AFFAIRS

(SHRI HARDEEP SINGH PURI)

(a)& (b): The issues of transparency, accountability and consultation and involvement of the people are very much relevant and effective in addressing various aspects of urbanization in the country.

(c): The challenges being faced due to rapid urbanisation are manifold. These include addressing of issues of planned and sustainable development, livelihood, urban infrastructure, delivery of services, housing, transportation, sanitation, waste management etc.

(d) & (e): Yes, Madam. The enactment of the 74th amendment to the Constitution was made to devise a mechanism for devolution of funds, functions and functionaries from the States to the Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) so that the ULBs are able to perform effectively as vibrant units of self-government. Further the devolution of the funds by the successive Union Finance Commissions to the States for their ULBs is another mechanism to assist the states to address the challenges of urbanisation.

Urban Development is a State subject and Government of India assists the State Governments and Urban Local Bodies through various programmes, schemes and guidelines in implementation of various reforms for efficient urban governance and service delivery. Also the Ministry extends technical and financial assistance to the States through its flagship programmes of Swachh Bharat Mission(SBM), Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation(AMRUT), Smart Cities Mission(SCM), Pradhan MantriAwasYojana-Housing for All (Urban) (PMAY-HFA-U), Heritage City Development and Augmentation Yojana (HRIDAY), DeendayalAntyodayaYojana- National Urban Livelihood Mission (DAY-NULM) and Metro Rail projects, to address various challenges of urbanisation.

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