Rethinking the Purpose of Development
As India’s cities expand rapidly, the meaning of "development" dominates policy debates. But in the rush for growth, we must ask: Who benefits, and what is the true goal? In Jharkhand, where cities like Ranchi, Hazaribagh, Dhanbad, Dumka, and Chaibasa are transforming, this question is urgent. These centres, rich in culture and resources, are often shaped by top-down, infrastructure-heavy models. Yet, can a city’s success be measured only by flyovers and facades?
Liveability as the Outcome of Development
Development should be defined by livability, not just economic or physical expansion. A city is not truly developed if people face: Unaffordable housing, Polluted air and water, Poor public services, Insecurity. A developed city is one where people live with dignity, safety, health, and belonging. Liveability means: Access to clean water and sanitation; Reliable public transport; Inclusive public spaces; Responsive governance; Opportunities for education and livelihoods; Ecological harmony. The most liveable city is the most developed city - a shift Jharkhand must embrace.
Jharkhand’s Urban Opportunity
Jharkhand’s urbanisation is still young, offering a rare chance to plan differently. Unlike megacities forced to fix broken systems, Jharkhand’s cities can evolve organically and sustainably- if priorities are set right. Key features of Jharkhand’s urban landscape: Blending of urban and rural identities; Coexistence of tribal knowledge and modern aspirations; Deep connection to nature. Applying metro-style development risks undermining these unique qualities.
A Liveability-First Model for Development
If livability is the core measure, Jharkhand’s urban agenda should: (i) Prioritize basic services (water, sanitation, healthcare, education) over cosmetic projects. (ii) Invest in sustainable housing for all. (iii) Preserve local ecology- integrate rivers, forests, and commons into city design. (iv) Plan for people, not just vehicles- promote walkability and public transport. (v) Recognize the rural-urban continuum, especially in tribal contexts. Urban planning must also move beyond bureaucratic silos, making it participatory and inclusive. Further it must also respect local cultures and climate. Jharkhand can lead by example, not by copying sprawling metropolises, but by building cities that serve people and the environment.
A Call to Reimagine Progress
This is not a call to slow progress, but to redefine it. In a nation where, urban growth often brings inequality and environmental harm, Jharkhand can chart a different course. By pioneering a liveability-first model anchored in dignity, well-being, and sustainability.
Jharkhand can offer a bold alternative for urban India. After all, what is the value of development if people cannot truly live well?
Ritesh Ranjan is an assistant professor or Urban Planning & Architecture at NIT Calicut. With a strong background in sustainable urban development, he combines academic rigor with practical experience in architecture and city planning. His work focuses on creating liveable and sensitive urban spaces.
