Deep-rooted inequalities have hampered project implementation and outcome. The efficiency of local governance holds the key to resolving this issue. Decentralisation should be encouraged but needs effective monitoring.
One-fourth of the urban population lives in these small towns (20,000 to 1,00,000 population). These 7 crore people need amenities to match up to their ‘urban’ status. Many of these towns may not be in the vicinity of big cities.