Urgent need for comprehensive reforms in urban governance

Rajiv Gauba, Member, NITI Aayog in his address during the valedictory session of the 2nd National Urban Conclave, highlighted the urgent need for comprehensive reforms in urban governance, planning and financing to realise the vision of Viksit Bharat @ 2047.

Emphasising the scale of India’s ongoing demographic and urban transition, Shri Gauba noted that India’s population would continue to grow for several decades, stabilising at approximately 165 crore around 2060. With nearly half of India’s population expected to live in urban areas by 2050, the urban population is projected to increase from approximately 50 crore at present to 85 crore.

Meeting the infrastructure, housing and basic service requirements of the urban population will need a fundamental change in how cities are planned, governed and financed.

Describing cities as crucibles of economic growth where talent, capital and ideas converge, he observed that, despite India’s rich history of planned urban settlements, cities had experienced relative neglect post-independence. Post 2014, there have been concerted efforts through several large missions like Smart Cities, AMRUT, Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, Swachh Bharat and the Urban Livelihoods Mission. The budgetary outlay for urban sector has grown 10-fold. Huge investments of about ₹3.7 lakh crore have been made in metro rail and bus systems.

Concluding his address, Shri Gauba stated that all these reforms can be implemented by States bringing in new Municipal Acts and urged MoHUA to get the reforms implemented by linking them to support under urban missions. He emphasised that empowered city governments are essential to unlocking India’s urban growth potential and realising the vision of Viksit States and Viksit Bharat. (UPDATED ON 25TH OCTOBER 2026)