ISS Previous Year Paper 2019 GS Solution Question 2(d) Urbanisation and the Urban Poor in India

ISS Previous Year Paper 2019 GS Solution Question 2(d) Urbanisation and the Urban Poor in India. Detailed answer discussing how rapid urbanisation affects the living conditions and challenges faced by the urban poor.

ISS Previous Year Paper 2019 GS Solution Question 2(d) Urbanisation and the Urban Poor in India

ISS Previous Year Paper 2019 GS Solution Question

Q.2(d) Discuss the impact of urbanisation on the urban poor in India.

Answer :

Urbanisation has significantly transformed India's economic and social landscape. Millions of people migrate from rural areas to cities in search of better employment opportunities and improved living standards. However, the benefits of urbanisation are not distributed equally.

One of the major challenges faced by the urban poor is the growth of slums and informal settlements. Rapid migration often exceeds the capacity of cities to provide affordable housing, forcing many low-income families to live in overcrowded and poorly serviced areas.

Employment opportunities generated by urbanisation are frequently concentrated in the informal sector, where workers face low wages, job insecurity, and limited social protection. Many migrants work as daily wage labourers, domestic workers, street vendors, or construction workers.

The urban poor also experience inadequate access to basic services such as clean drinking water, sanitation, healthcare, education, and public transportation. Environmental pollution and poor living conditions further increase health risks.

At the same time, urbanisation can create opportunities for social mobility by providing access to markets, education, and employment. Government initiatives such as Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY), Smart Cities Mission, and urban poverty alleviation programs aim to improve living conditions for disadvantaged urban populations.

Therefore, while urbanisation promotes economic growth, inclusive urban planning is essential to ensure that the urban poor also benefit from development.

Conclusion

Urbanisation offers significant opportunities for economic advancement but also presents serious challenges for vulnerable populations. Sustainable and inclusive urban development policies are necessary to improve the quality of life of the urban poor and ensure equitable growth.