INDIA INFRASTRUCTURE REPORT 2023

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Context: The India Infrastructure Report 2023 (IIR 2023) released by Shri Venkaiah Naidu, the former Vice-President of India, highlights various crucial aspects of urban planning and development in India.

Details

• The India Infrastructure Report 2023 on Urban Planning and Development was released on December 4, 2023. The release event, held virtually, featured Shri Venkaiah Naidu, former Vice-President of India.
• The report is a collaborative effort of the IDFC Foundation, Infrastructure Development Corporation (Karnataka) Ltd. (iDeCK), and the National Institute of Urban Affairs (NIUA).

About the Report

• The India Infrastructure Report (IIR) 2023 is part of the acclaimed IIR series initiated by the IDFC Foundation in 2001.
• The report comprises 25 well-researched papers by experienced authors in the urban planning sector, covering a range of complex issues related to urban planning and development.
• Key Aspects Addressed:
  • Planning and Governance
  • Smart Initiatives
  • Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) and Financing
  • Housing and Migration
  • Public Service Delivery
  • Integrating Infrastructure
  • Urban Redevelopment

Focus Areas

• The transformative potential of digital technology in shaping India's urban landscape, with an emphasis on 'smart cities' and performance ranking criteria.
• Examination of financial dimensions, including PPPs, financial sustainability of urban bodies, and the efficacy of municipal bonds as financing instruments.
• Urban transportation planning and redevelopment, emphasizing transit-oriented development, efficient urban goods movement, and regulation of floor space and land prices.
• The report is expected to contribute to inclusive socio-economic development in the state and aid in the all-round development of the nation.
• Anticipated to play a role in powering growth and helping India become one of the top three largest economies globally.

IDFC Foundation ●A not-for-profit institution working on philanthropic initiatives in social infrastructure. ●Engages in research, policy advocacy, and capacity building in various infrastructure sectors.

iDeCK (Infrastructure Development Corporation Karnataka Ltd.) ●Established in 2000 as a joint venture of the Government of Karnataka, IDFC Foundation, and HDFC. ●Focuses on catalyzing well-planned, sustainable infrastructure projects, especially through public-private participation.

NIUA (National Institute of Urban Affairs) ●Established in 1976, NIUA is a Central Autonomous Body under the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs. ●Acts as a national think-tank, conducting research, knowledge exchange, capacity development, policy planning, and advocacy in urban development.

Conclusion

• The India Infrastructure Report 2023 serves as a comprehensive resource addressing critical issues in urban planning and development, offering insights, solutions, and a roadmap for sustainable growth.

PRACTICE QUESTION Q. How can urban planning and development strategies be effectively implemented in India to address the challenges of rapid urbanization, promote sustainable growth, and enhance the overall quality of life for residents?