Q: Discuss why India needs new cities at present. (10 marks)

India is at a critical juncture where the need for new cities has become increasingly urgent due to several interrelated factors. Here are some key reasons why new cities are essential for India’s future:

1. Population Growth and Urbanization

• Rising Urban Population: By 2036, India’s urban population is expected to reach 600 million, accounting for 40% of the total population. Existing cities are struggling to accommodate this influx, leading to overcrowding and strain on infrastructure.
• Migration: Rural-to-urban migration continues to rise as people seek better job opportunities, education, and quality of life in urban areas.

2. Economic Growth

• Economic Hubs: India’s GDP is projected GDP of $30 trillion by 2047. New cities can serve as economic hubs, driving growth and development. Urban areas contribute significantly to GDP, and well-planned cities can enhance productivity and innovation.
• Investment Opportunities: Developing new cities can attract both domestic and foreign investments, boosting economic activities and creating jobs.

3. Infrastructure and Services

• Modern Infrastructure: New cities provide an opportunity to build modern infrastructure from scratch, incorporating advanced technologies and sustainable practices.
• Public Services: Efficient public services, such as transportation, healthcare, and education, can be better planned and implemented in new cities, improving the quality of life for residents.

4. Environmental Sustainability

• Green Cities: New cities can be designed with a focus on environmental sustainability, including green spaces, renewable energy, and efficient waste management systems.
• Climate Resilience: Building climate-resilient infrastructure can help mitigate the impacts of climate change and ensure sustainable urban development.

5. Reducing Pressure on Existing Cities

• Decongestion: Developing new cities can help decongest existing metropolitan areas, reducing traffic, pollution, and pressure on resources.
• Balanced Regional Development: New cities can promote balanced regional development, ensuring that growth is not concentrated in a few urban centers.

6. Social and Cultural Benefits

• Inclusive Growth: New cities can be planned to be more inclusive, providing opportunities for all sections of society and reducing social inequalities.
• Cultural Integration: Well-planned cities can foster cultural integration and community building, enhancing social cohesion.

The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) is reviewing proposals for new cities and extensions of existing cities. The proposals include: Kopparthay (AP) , GIFT City (GJ), Gurugram expansion ( Haryana) , New Ranchi City ( Jharkhand) , Ayodhya (Uttar Pradesh) , Bantala (West Bengal ), Jabalpur Extension (Madhya Pradesh) , New MOPA Ayush City (Goa) and Nagaki Global City (Nagaland) etc. The 15th Finance Commission recommended allocating Rs 8,000 crore to establish eight new cities.

                    In conclusion, India’s need for new cities stems from rapid urbanization, economic imperatives, infrastructural deficits, and the potential for sustainable development. By strategically planning and investing in these new urban centers, India can address current challenges while positioning itself for future growth.