Viksit Bharat@2047 initiative, small towns will play big role

At a conference held at CEPT University on Saturday, experts discussed the significant role small cities can play in achieving the vision of Viksit Bharat@2047. The event focused on fiscal health and citizen satisfaction in municipalities across Gujarat, providing insights to help cities strategize their growth toward the goal of a developed India.

The conference was organized by CEPT University under the aegis of the Indian Council of Social Science Research (ICSSR) as part of the Viksit Bharat@2047 initiative. It centered around urban governance and managing the future growth of Indian cities. Experts gathered to explore how small cities could contribute to the broader vision of equitable and sustainable urban development.

Prof. Mercy Samuel, Senior Associate Professor at CEPT University, shared details about an ICSSR-funded study aimed at improving urban governance in Gujarat’s smaller cities. She explained that the study aims to bridge the gap in data-driven decision-making by providing micro-level financial insights and developing an interactive visualization tool. This will help empower local bodies and the state in fostering sustainable growth and resilience. “By focusing on small cities, we can significantly contribute to the Vision Viksit Bharat@2047, ensuring informed and equitable urban development,” she stated.

During the day-long event, renowned urban governance experts delved into crucial topics such as the impact of the 74th Constitutional Amendment, strategies for revenue generation, expenditure management, capacity building, and transparency. They also discussed the importance of fostering citizen participation to promote financial independence for local municipalities. These discussions aimed at ensuring that small cities can effectively contribute to India’s growth and development in line with the national vision.

AM