About the Conference

NITI Aayog, The Institute for Human Development (IHD) and Department of Urban and Regional Planning, University of Florida are organizing an International Conference on “Planning for Sustainable and Inclusive Urban Development in India: Learning from International Experiences and Future Strategies” during 1-3 August 2015 at the India International Centre, New Delhi. The Union Minister for Urban Development, Government of India, Shri Venkiah Naidu will inaugurate the Conference and the Vice-Chairman of NITI Ayog, Professor Arvind Panagariya will deliver the keynote address in the inaugural session.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

India is one of the fastest growing large economies in the world. It ranks third in terms of GDP Purchasing Power Parity. Its per capita income, however, remains one of the lowest among the developing countries. Low per capita income and widespread poverty in the country are attributed, among other factors, to low level of urbanisation, i.e. only about 30 per cent. Further, the pace of urbanisation in India has been much slower compared to most of the developing regions, such as Latin America and South-east Asia.

+ Concept note

Themes of the Conference

• International experiences of urbanisation and lessons for India
• Historical and emerging patterns of urbanization in India
• Challenge of employment and skills
• Ensuring Public safety and security
• Mobility and migration
• Planning for transport and infrastructure needs
• Creating sustainable cities: greenfield urbanization, private and industrial townships
• Rural–urban linkages and growth of small and medium towns
• Land use, slum upgradation and affordable housing
• Challenge of governance and restructuring institutions
• Apart from the thematic sessions, there will be two high level panel discussions:
  • Apart from the thematic sessions, there will be two high level panel discussions:
  • ‘Swachh Bharat’ (Clean India)