In a landmark gathering for India’s urban future, the 74th National Town and Country Planners Conference commenced at Karnavati Club in Ahmedabad on Friday. Organized by the Institute of Town Planners India, the event was inaugurated by Katikithala Srinivas, Secretary of the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs.
Key figures including Gujarat Urban Development Minister Darshana Vaghela, UP’s Keshav Varma, and ITPI head Pradeep Kapoor set the stage for profound discussions. Centered on ‘Proactive Regional Planning for Developed India,’ sessions delved into sustainable high-density living, equitable development models, and innovative ways to house booming populations within limited land resources.
Minister Vaghela shared her insights post-event: ‘Participating in this 2026 conference with top planners was enlightening. In this era of swift urbanization, structured, eco-friendly growth hinges on advanced planning encompassing infra, greenery, mobility, homes, and services.’
Srinivas highlighted Gujarat’s exemplary model, urging nationwide adoption. He elaborated on PM Modi’s foresight: nearly half the population urbanizing, driving most economic output via youthful demographics. ‘We’re preparing ahead with ongoing stakeholder engagements. Minister Manohar Lal’s regular conferences ensure phased, collaborative urban advancement,’ he affirmed.
This conclave not only mapped challenges but also charted actionable paths, reinforcing commitment to a vibrant, inclusive urban India.