India’s urban landscape has witnessed a remarkable transformation since 2014. Decades of neglect gave way to rapid modernisation. Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, cities became engines of growth and symbols of national pride. Massive investments, infrastructure upgrades, and inclusive policies are reshaping urban India’s future.
Historical Context of Urban Neglect
Post-Independence India focused on centralised governance inspired by Soviet models. Cities, especially Delhi, suffered from poor infrastructure and decay. Government buildings were outdated and roads congested. Metro rail systems were limited to a few cities. Urban development was low priority, reflecting in the quality of civic amenities.
Financial Commitment to Urban Development
Between 2004 and 2014, central investment in urban sectors was ₹1.57 lakh crore. Since 2014, this surged to nearly ₹28.5 lakh crore. This 16-fold increase signals a paradigm shift. Funds have been channelled into transport, housing, energy, and digital infrastructure, accelerating urban growth at an unprecedented pace.
Transport and Connectivity Revolution
Metro rail length expanded from 248 km in 2014 to over 1,000 km across 23 cities . Daily ridership exceeds one crore passengers. New corridors are under construction in cities like Pune, Surat, and Agra. Expressways such as Delhi-Mumbai and Bengaluru-Mysuru reduce travel time and pollution. The Delhi-Meerut Regional Rapid Transit System cuts commute to under an hour. Mumbai’s Atal Setu sea bridge and the upcoming Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train enhance connectivity further.
Inclusive Urban Policies
Schemes like PM SVANidhi have empowered over 68 lakh street vendors with collateral-free credit and digital tools. PM Awas Yojana (Urban) has sanctioned 120 lakh houses, with 94 lakh completed. Millions have moved from slums to secure pucca homes. These initiatives promote economic inclusion and improve living standards.
Energy and Environmental Improvements
City gas distribution expanded from 57 to over 300 geographical areas. Domestic piped natural gas connections rose from 25 lakh to 1.5 crore. CNG stations support cleaner public transport. These changes contribute to safer, more sustainable urban living environments.
Modernised Civic Infrastructure
India’s airports increased from 74 to about 160, boosting air connectivity. Over 1,300 railway stations are being upgraded under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme. The expanded Terminal-1 at Delhi’s IGI Airport handles over 100 million passengers annually. Convention centres like Bharat Mandapam and Yashobhoomi host global events, enhancing India’s international stature.
Economic and Digital Growth Synergy
India’s economy is the world’s fourth largest at $4.2 trillion. Digital infrastructure supports urban life and commerce. GST rationalisation lowers tax burdens on urban households, encouraging consumption and job creation. This synergy fuels sustainable urban expansion and prosperity.
Global Image and Urban Identity
Cities now reflect India’s modernity and ambition. Urban spaces are designed to project national confidence internationally. The transformation of Delhi’s Central Vista and other projects symbolise this new urban identity. Cities are no longer neglected but celebrated as centres of opportunity and culture.
Questions for UPSC:
- Taking example of India’s metro rail expansion, discuss the role of urban transport in sustainable economic development.
- Examine the impact of housing schemes like PM Awas Yojana on social inclusion and urban poverty alleviation.
- Analyse the relationship between energy reforms such as city gas distribution and environmental sustainability in Indian cities.
- Discuss in the light of India’s urban transformation, how infrastructure development influences a country’s global image and diplomatic standing.
