Who really needs to make the sacrifices?
Speaking to members of the Indian diaspora at The Hague in mid-May, Prime Minister Modi said the war in West Asia can overturn the gains of the Indian economy in the past decade.
Category Center for Habitat, Urban and Regional Studies
Annapurna Yojana in West Bengal: Income Support and the Changing Nature of Welfare
West Bengal has a long tradition of state-sponsored welfare programmes aimed at alleviating poverty and reducing socio-economic inequality. In 2021, the Trinamool Congress (TMC) government under Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee introduced the Lakshmir Bhandar Scheme, a monthly cash transfer programme targeting women from economically weaker households. The scheme quickly became a flagship welfare initiative, enrolling approximately 2.21 crore (22.1 million) women across West Bengal before being replaced by the Annapurna Bhandar scheme in mid-2026. (West Bengal Government)
Pradhan Mantri Adi Adarsh Gram Yojana (PMAAGY)
Policy UpdateParidhi Passi Background India’s tribal communities have faced a paradox that has defined development policy for decades. They are among the most constitutionally protected groups in the country, yet consistently among the most underserved. According to the 2011 Census,…
CITIIS Program: Redefining Urban Development for a Sustainable Future
As India undergoes rapid urbanisation, cities are discovering opportunities such as economic growth, innovation and employment. But, the rapid nature of urbanization also creates challenges in terms of waste management, resource consumption, climate vulnerability and infrastructure stress.
Beyond Connectivity: The Urban and Regional Impact of the Mumbai-Pune Missing Link Project
Inaugurated on 1st May 2026 by the Chief Minister of Maharashtra, the Mumbai-Pune Missing Link Project is a major infrastructure endeavour undertaken by the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC).
Social Accountability for Stronger Municipal Finances: The Role of Citizen Participation in Enhancing Property Tax Compliance in Indian Cities
Policy UpdateTanvi Nerurkar Background India’s cities are facing a major transition. Urban areas now produce more than 60 % of the country’s GDP and are expected to be home to almost 600 million people by 2036. Urban Local Bodies (ULBs)…
Climate Budgeting by Urban Local Bodies: The Next Frontier of Indian Cities
Indian cities are increasingly at the forefront of the climate crisis. Rapid urbanisation, growing populations, and rising infrastructure demands have heightened exposure to challenges such as heatwaves, urban flooding, poor air quality, water stress, and pressure on essential services.