India, July 14 -- 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, Poo...