India’s 47 million-plus cities account for nearly 1/3rd of India’s urban population and contribute to 60% of India’s GDP.
- However, these face acute challenges related to infrastructure deficits, service delivery, housing, mobility, environmental sustainability, and social inclusion that impact overall livability and quality of life in these growth centres.
Challenges in Urban Governance in Million-Plus Cities
- Limited devolution of functions: On average, city governments have full control over only 4 functions out of 18 functions (74th Constitutional Amendment Act).
- Fragmented institutional setup and ineffective leadership: Absence of clear role demarcation between elected representatives and the municipal administration.
- Mayors are not regarded as the real heads.
- Weak revenue base and limited devolution of funds: Weak own-source revenues, high dependence on tied grants, delays in constitution, inadequate institutional support and weak/ selective implementation of State Finance Commissions’ recommendations.
- Weak public service delivery: City governments continue to play little or no role in key services like public transport, planning, water and sanitation.
- Capacity constraints: Shortfalls in recruitment, high dependence on deputation, frequent transfers, and limited investment in training.
Key Recommendations of Report
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