India needs a localized approach for urban development

India is set to experience significant urban growth in the coming years, becoming home to the largest urban population in the world. However, much of the planning for this urban future is done far away from the actual cities. Since the 1990s, India's urbanization has been influenced by various government missions aimed at improving urban infrastructure and services. These initiatives include housing schemes and urban renewal efforts. The challenge with the current system is that it often takes a top-down approach. The central government controls financial resources, which limits local governments' ability to respond to specific community needs. While cities are seen as vital to India's economic growth, the strictures placed on funding often overlook the unique contexts and requirements of different areas. Cities across India are experiencing urbanization differently. For example, some regions may need more housing, while others may have sufficient infrastructure or services. The one-size-fits-all approach to grant allocations does not address these discrepancies. To improve the situation, experts suggest that a significant portion of the Union Budget—around 70%—should be directly transferred to state and city governments. This would allow local governments to prioritize spending based on their specific requirements instead of following generic guidelines set by the central government. By encouraging local decision-making, cities can better address the unique challenges they face. Ultimately, addressing local needs through improved financial devolution is essential. It allows cities to become more responsive to their residents, transforming urban areas into more livable spaces while preventing infrastructure collapse. The current centrally driven missions often fail to connect effectively with local communities, highlighting the necessity for a fundamental redesign of urban policies to foster sustainable growth.