Manifesto Watch: Similar Visions, But Divergent Pathways On Urban Development

However, these priorities are divided between the manifestos of the BJP and the Congress.

The need for robust policies and strategies to manage this urban transition becomes urgent since projections indicate that nearly 70 per cent of India's GDP will originate from cities by 2030. Further, the country's urban populations are poised to nearly double to 630 million by 2030. 

The decisions of the next government will fundamentally determine the quality of life for the millions who call the cities home.

Differences and Similarities

In their respective manifestos, the BJP and the Congress have articulated their visions for urban development, highlighting common ground on important issues. Satellite townships to alleviate the strain on existing urban centres feature prominently in their agendas. Take, for instance, the role of Noida and Gurugram as satellite towns for Delhi.

Both manifestos emphasise on multi-modal urban public transport systems signalling a recognition of the transportation challenges in Indian cities. It's a nod of approval for initiatives like expanding the PM-eBus under the BJP's plan and prioritising the safety of women and children during travel and transport, as underscored by the Congress.

The two parties emphasise the need to address governance issues while recognising the implementation deficit as a significant obstacle in urban development.

The BJP advocates for cooperative urban governance and modern regulatory frameworks, while the Congress prioritises implementation of constitutional amendments for decentralised power, including the direct election of city mayors. 

The Congress manifesto also highlights integrated rural-urban transport systems and strategies to boost urban household incomes through an urban employment programme.

The BJP focuses on real estate issues like affordable housing and global conference hubs, raising concerns about equitable economic development and potential displacement of marginalised communities.

The two manifestos articulate comprehensive visions for infrastructure development, with a focus on enhancing quality, accessibility, and capacity across various sectors.

While the Congress emphasises mobilising public and private capital for construction and infrastructure projects, the BJP highlights its feats such as the expansion of railway networks and road infrastructure, promoting affordable housing, and sustainable urban development. 

Continuity, Discontinuity and Change

The two parties underscore a shared commitment to advancing infrastructure development, showcasing initiatives like the expansion of railway networks, improvement of road infrastructure, and the promotion of affordable housing, which transcend party lines.

The Congress manifesto pledges to uphold ongoing endeavours like the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana, the Right to Homestead Act, and the expansion of the National Drinking Water Mission. Similarly, the BJP reaffirms its dedication to enhancing railway infrastructure, bolstering road networks, and fostering affordable housing through regulatory reforms.

The Smart Cities Mission, a significant initiative from previous terms, is notably absent in the BJP manifesto. Despite this, the parties have proposed new schemes that reflect their distinct priorities and approaches to urban development.

The Congress manifesto promises to introduce initiatives such as the establishment of an urban employment programme and the development of twin cities to mitigate urban sprawl. The BJP's focus is on innovative measures like the introduction of new-age trains and the expansion of electric vehicle infrastructure.

Additionally, the Congress underscores its commitment to urban governance by pledging to further implement the 74th Amendment Act. This reflects a continued focus on decentralisation and empowering local governments to effectively manage urban affairs.

Innovative Propositions

In the BJP manifesto, the development of new-age trains like Vande Bharat and the expansion of high-frequency trains for regional connectivity showcase its commitment to modernising transport infrastructure. Additionally, initiatives to promote sustainable urban landscapes, eliminate open landfills, and strengthen urban land record systems reflect a forward-thinking approach to urban development.

The Congress manifesto, however, comes up with schemes tailored to address specific urban challenges, including the direct election of Mayors/Chairpersons with fixed terms and enhanced executive powers for better urban governance.

Furthermore, the emphasis is on safety in travel and transport, humane solutions for stray dog management, and effective implementation of decentralised governance structures at the grassroots-level.

Areas For Improvement

The BJP manifesto has room for improvement in addressing pressing urban challenges such as congestion and environmental sustainability. A more proactive approach in proposing specific strategies to promote alternative modes of transportation and enhance green infrastructure could strengthen the party's commitment to sustainable urban development.

The Congress's manifesto could have been more forward-thinking by including specific strategies to promote job creation and economic growth in urban areas, especially considering the challenges posed by rapid urbanisation.

While both manifestos offer comprehensive visions for infrastructure development, there are areas where each party could improve their proposals. The Congress manifesto could be more proactive in addressing urban congestion and environmental sustainability, particularly in promoting green energy initiatives and sustainable resource extraction practices.

Similarly, the BJP manifesto could enhance its focus on social inclusivity and equitable development, with specific strategies to address the needs of marginalised communities and promote inclusive growth.

Not Very Different From Each Other

Both manifestos demonstrate strengths in their comprehensive approach to infrastructure development, emphasis on innovation, and commitment to safety and sustainability.

The Congress manifesto's strengths lie in its focus on social inclusivity and proactive measures to address urban challenges, while the BJP manifesto excels in its emphasis on technological innovation and sustainable mobility solutions.

However, weaknesses may include the need for more proactive measures to address urban congestion and environmental sustainability, particularly in promoting alternative modes of transportation and enhancing green infrastructure.

Opportunities lie in leveraging emerging technologies and promoting sustainable practices, while threats may arise from implementation challenges and potential resistance to regulatory reforms. Overall, both the Congress and BJP manifestos present balanced visions for fostering infrastructure development and urban growth in India.

While the two manifestos may share common goals of infrastructure development and urban governance reform, they diverge in their approaches and strategies.

Despite these differences, both parties recognise the significant impact of urbanisation on India's future. While the BJP manifesto leans towards infrastructure development, the Congress focuses on governance reforms and regional development to accommodate this rapid urban transition.

However, a notable omission from both manifestos is any mention of informal settlements, which are home to nearly half of India's urban population. This gap underscores the pressing need for policies that address the needs of vulnerable urban residents and ensure inclusive urban development.

Former Reserve Bank of India Governor Raghuram Rajan's recent statement highlights India's failure to fully leverage its demographic dividend, emphasising the critical importance of effective urbanisation, job creation, and seamless migration in harnessing the potential of its young population.

The next 5 to 10 years will be important for India's urban areas, as the quality of urbanisation, employment opportunities, and access to essential services will determine the country's ability to capitalise on its demographic advantage.