Secretary: India's urban population to reach 1 billion soon

India's urban population is expected to reach 1 billion in the coming years, said Government Secretary Kuldip Narayan said during the ministerial roundtable at the 13th Session of the World Urban Forum (WUF13) in Baku, according to Report.

He noted that India currently has about 500 million urban residents, and within the next 25 years, the urban system will expand significantly: "This transformation brings major challenges but also historic opportunities for inclusive and sustainable development. India's urbanization policy is built on principles of social inclusion, economic opportunity, and climate resilience."

Narayan highlighted India's flagship housing initiative, Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, under which more than 12 million homes have been approved:

"Ninety percent of these homes are registered in women's names. The program is based on the principle of Housing for All and contributes to the Sustainable Development Goals on gender equality and sustainable cities."

He added that India plans a large investment program in urban development, with about $10 billion in government support, expected to leverage nearly $40 billion in public‑private partnerships. The program aims to modernize urban infrastructure and accelerate sustainable city planning.

Narayan also noted that waste processing has reached 80% nationwide, while measures on water security, circular economy, and sustainable lifestyles continue:

"Special attention is given to water supply and efficient resource management. Climate‑resilient urban planning and nature‑based solutions remain key directions of India's urban policy."