India is at a tipping point in terms of its development trajectory. Urbanization is happening fast, with people moving from rural to urban areas in search of economic growth. But both urban and rural areas are under threat from the consequences of climate change. The rising temperatures, erratic rainfall, droughts, floods and other climate risks…
The Chandigarh administration is implementing Deregulation 2.0 to replace rigid zoning rules with a “permitted until prohibited” approach, aiming to unlock land, reduce red tape, and support mixed-use development. Reforms target industrial productivity, educational infrastructure, and creation of a land bank, while emphasizing flexibility, investment attraction, and sustainable urban planning. The Chandigarh administration is advancing…
In Ludhiana, a proposal to convert school-reserved land in Rajguru Nagar into residential housing has sparked objections from civic groups and residents, citing planning laws and Right to Education (Article 21A). Critics warn that repurposing public-purpose land undermines urban governance, educational access, and sets a dangerous precedent for future development A growing urban planning dispute…
From the periphery of mapping and surveying, spatial technology has made a significant transition into the mainstream. It has transitioned into industrial decision-making, governance and economic planning. Geospatial technologies are becoming a fundamental infrastructure layer supporting everything from urban planning to climate resilience. This industry’s explosive growth portends both unheard-of opportunity and difficult governance issues….
For over a decade, affordable housing has been positioned as a cornerstone of India’s urban development program. Government schemes such as Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana- Urban (PMAY-U), new financing norms and private-sector innovations were expected to unlock millions of homes for low- and middle-income families. Despite these policy initiatives, the affordable housing segment appears to…
Photo Credit: Antara Mrinal Clear Cut Livelihood DeskNew Delhi, UPDATED: Oct 09, 2025 04:55 ISTWritten By: Antara Mrinal As urbanization reaches the world stage, the true test of city planners is no longer just how to build more quickly, but how to build more equitably. Sustainable Development Goal 11 implores that cities be inclusive, safe,…
