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India's Blind Spot: Understanding and Managing Our Cities
A comprehensive study on the phenomenon of Indian urbanization, and what comes with it.
Indian policy has been characterised by a denial of urbanization. This has prevented us from meaningfully addressing the blizzard of policy issues that come with the from governance deficit to infrastructure shortfall, from effective management of land to lack of focus on growing city economies; from access to potable water to incessant flooding; from traffic congestion to sufficient urban green and public spaces; and from lack of safety to marginalization of urban poor, migrants, and vulnerable communities. Consequently, cities have truly become India's blind spot. And blind spots can be fatal.
India's Blind Spot will explore our understanding of Indian cities and how we have reached this point of exasperation. The book illustrates that cities are critical to achieving India's promised destiny and provides policy solutions and innovations to tackle complex issues in our cities. The book vividly explains that Indian cities will be at the frontier of driving key global political-economy trends in coming decades.
Indian policy has been characterised by a denial of urbanization. This has prevented us from meaningfully addressing the blizzard of policy issues that come with the from governance deficit to infrastructure shortfall, from effective management of land to lack of focus on growing city economies; from access to potable water to incessant flooding; from traffic congestion to sufficient urban green and public spaces; and from lack of safety to marginalization of urban poor, migrants, and vulnerable communities. Consequently, cities have truly become India's blind spot. And blind spots can be fatal.
India's Blind Spot will explore our understanding of Indian cities and how we have reached this point of exasperation. The book illustrates that cities are critical to achieving India's promised destiny and provides policy solutions and innovations to tackle complex issues in our cities. The book vividly explains that Indian cities will be at the frontier of driving key global political-economy trends in coming decades.
- GenresNonfictionIndia
538 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 11, 2023
15 people are currently reading
187 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
January 10, 2024
Comprehensive but bland.
December 31, 2023
Urbanization refers to the process of population migration from rural areas to urban centres, leading to the growth and expansion of cities. It involves rural landscapes' physical, social, and economic transformation into urban environments. The effects of urbanization on city life can be both positive and negative. Managing urbanization requires careful urban planning, sustainable development strategies, and inclusive policies that address the needs of all residents. By striking a balance between economic growth, social equity, and environmental sustainability, cities can maximize the benefits of urbanization while minimizing its negative consequences.
To shed light on the prevailing circumstances and to propose practical solutions, "India's Blind Spot" by Devashish Dhar embarks on a comprehensive exploration of Indian cities and their current state of exasperation. The book aims to deepen our understanding of the intricacies and complexities of urbanization in India. It emphasizes that cities are critical to achieving India's promised destiny and are poised to drive critical global political and economic trends in the coming decades.
The book's standout feature lies in its comprehensive collection and organized presentation of a wide range of information, primarily at a macro level. This wealth of data forms the foundation for the book's recommendations across eight vital sectors, encompassing urban economy and governance. Regardless of whether readers agree with the proposed solutions, the book's meticulous sourcing of data lends it integrity and credibility. Furthermore, the abundance of material in the book offers ample opportunities to delve deeper into the discourse and explore the subject matter from various perspectives.
By analyzing the challenges faced by Indian cities, "India's Blind Spot" puts forth a range of policy solutions and innovative approaches to tackling these multifaceted issues. It advocates for a holistic and integrated approach encompassing improved governance structures, enhanced infrastructure development, sustainable land management practices, and nurturing vibrant city economies. The book also emphasizes the urgent need to address the pressing concerns of water scarcity, flooding, and environmental degradation, while simultaneously prioritizing the creation of accessible and well-designed urban green spaces and public areas. Furthermore, it calls for a concerted effort to ensure the safety and inclusion of marginalized populations, such as the economically challenged, migrants, and vulnerable communities.
Amitabh Kant, G20 Sherpa and former CEO, NITI Aayog and author of MADE IN INDIA: 75 Years of Business and Enterprise, released in March 2023 and published by Rupa Publications, commented on India's Blind Spot:
'Does a brilliant job of combining economics, history and international relations to highlight the importance of well-planned, sustainable cities for India, and to illustrate how to implement sound urbanization ... Insightful, evidence-backed, comprehensive, progressive and scholarly.'
Just for reference, several captivating books delving into urban planning and development aspects have been published recently. Notable among them are Varun Gandhi's "The Urban Metropolis" (2023), AN Sarkar's "Smart Cities" (2016), and Ashok Kumar Jain's "City Planning for a Changing India" (2018). These works offer intriguing insights into the dynamic and evolving field of urbanization, providing readers with valuable perspectives and knowledge.
"India's Blind Spot" ultimately presents a compelling case for recognizing the immense potential and significance of Indian cities. It argues that by embracing urbanization and adopting comprehensive strategies to address the associated challenges, India can position itself as a global leader in shaping the future of politics, economics, and sustainable development. Through policy reforms, innovative solutions, and a collective commitment to inclusive urban growth, India can transform its blind spots into vibrant hubs of opportunity, progress, and prosperity for all its citizens.
To shed light on the prevailing circumstances and to propose practical solutions, "India's Blind Spot" by Devashish Dhar embarks on a comprehensive exploration of Indian cities and their current state of exasperation. The book aims to deepen our understanding of the intricacies and complexities of urbanization in India. It emphasizes that cities are critical to achieving India's promised destiny and are poised to drive critical global political and economic trends in the coming decades.
The book's standout feature lies in its comprehensive collection and organized presentation of a wide range of information, primarily at a macro level. This wealth of data forms the foundation for the book's recommendations across eight vital sectors, encompassing urban economy and governance. Regardless of whether readers agree with the proposed solutions, the book's meticulous sourcing of data lends it integrity and credibility. Furthermore, the abundance of material in the book offers ample opportunities to delve deeper into the discourse and explore the subject matter from various perspectives.
By analyzing the challenges faced by Indian cities, "India's Blind Spot" puts forth a range of policy solutions and innovative approaches to tackling these multifaceted issues. It advocates for a holistic and integrated approach encompassing improved governance structures, enhanced infrastructure development, sustainable land management practices, and nurturing vibrant city economies. The book also emphasizes the urgent need to address the pressing concerns of water scarcity, flooding, and environmental degradation, while simultaneously prioritizing the creation of accessible and well-designed urban green spaces and public areas. Furthermore, it calls for a concerted effort to ensure the safety and inclusion of marginalized populations, such as the economically challenged, migrants, and vulnerable communities.
Amitabh Kant, G20 Sherpa and former CEO, NITI Aayog and author of MADE IN INDIA: 75 Years of Business and Enterprise, released in March 2023 and published by Rupa Publications, commented on India's Blind Spot:
'Does a brilliant job of combining economics, history and international relations to highlight the importance of well-planned, sustainable cities for India, and to illustrate how to implement sound urbanization ... Insightful, evidence-backed, comprehensive, progressive and scholarly.'
Just for reference, several captivating books delving into urban planning and development aspects have been published recently. Notable among them are Varun Gandhi's "The Urban Metropolis" (2023), AN Sarkar's "Smart Cities" (2016), and Ashok Kumar Jain's "City Planning for a Changing India" (2018). These works offer intriguing insights into the dynamic and evolving field of urbanization, providing readers with valuable perspectives and knowledge.
"India's Blind Spot" ultimately presents a compelling case for recognizing the immense potential and significance of Indian cities. It argues that by embracing urbanization and adopting comprehensive strategies to address the associated challenges, India can position itself as a global leader in shaping the future of politics, economics, and sustainable development. Through policy reforms, innovative solutions, and a collective commitment to inclusive urban growth, India can transform its blind spots into vibrant hubs of opportunity, progress, and prosperity for all its citizens.
August 2, 2023
India's Blind Spot is a groundbreaking book by Devashish Dhar offering a comprehensive exploration of India's often-neglected urban landscape. This influential study sheds light on the nation's denial of urbanization and its far-reaching impact on various policy issues. Mr. Dhar artfully illustrates how cities will play a pivotal role in driving key global political-economic trends in the coming decades.
The book goes beyond being a critique of India's urban policies and presents a roadmap to the nation's transformation. By unraveling the complexities of Indian urbanization, Mr. Dhar makes a compelling case for the country to shed its reluctance and embrace the opportunities of urban growth. The book charts a course towards well-planned, sustainable cities that can drive India's economic progress while ensuring a better quality of life for its citizens.
The book's accessibility and forward-thinking approach makes it a significant contribution to the discourse on Indian cities. By reading and acting upon the book's recommendations, India can unveil its urban potential, shaping a more prosperous and equitable future for all. Highly recommended!
The book goes beyond being a critique of India's urban policies and presents a roadmap to the nation's transformation. By unraveling the complexities of Indian urbanization, Mr. Dhar makes a compelling case for the country to shed its reluctance and embrace the opportunities of urban growth. The book charts a course towards well-planned, sustainable cities that can drive India's economic progress while ensuring a better quality of life for its citizens.
The book's accessibility and forward-thinking approach makes it a significant contribution to the discourse on Indian cities. By reading and acting upon the book's recommendations, India can unveil its urban potential, shaping a more prosperous and equitable future for all. Highly recommended!
September 16, 2023
Review Title: A must read for decision makers
I found this book to be incredibly interesting. It's not often that I read nonfiction and it's even rarer for me to read a book about cities. But this one captivated me and made me realise that books that talk about relevant but not so conventional or popular things can be entertaining to read as well. In this book the author touches upon various important aspects of our society and backs up all his arguments and opinions with solid researched data. Things are not said just for the sake of it, they are contemplated, explained, elaborated and given due credence while being presented. Why is urbanisation so important? How has the covid outbreak affected our cities? How is urban India different from rural India? How can we better our living standards? How can we change as a society and hence as a country by developing our cities? These are all questions that are touched upon in this book and even given solutions to for those willing to take it.
An excellent book and a must read, especially for those who are the decision makers of our society.
I found this book to be incredibly interesting. It's not often that I read nonfiction and it's even rarer for me to read a book about cities. But this one captivated me and made me realise that books that talk about relevant but not so conventional or popular things can be entertaining to read as well. In this book the author touches upon various important aspects of our society and backs up all his arguments and opinions with solid researched data. Things are not said just for the sake of it, they are contemplated, explained, elaborated and given due credence while being presented. Why is urbanisation so important? How has the covid outbreak affected our cities? How is urban India different from rural India? How can we better our living standards? How can we change as a society and hence as a country by developing our cities? These are all questions that are touched upon in this book and even given solutions to for those willing to take it.
An excellent book and a must read, especially for those who are the decision makers of our society.
July 31, 2023
Reading a nonfiction, especially one about a subject that isn't spoken about much, can sometimes feel a bit tedious. There are tons of books out there about communication or life hacks or relationship goals but this is the first book I've come across that talks of our cities, the places we live in, and a very underrated, even ignored, part of our lives. This is precisely the reason why I picked it up. I was curious to know how a book about our cities can hold my attention and boy, it didn't only hold my attention but in fact made me want more once it ended. The information given in this book is an eye opener and the way the author has given references to almost every point he made spoke of the level of research that has gone behind curating this book. I can talk about many things that I liked in it but won't because I want people to read it and know for themselves because this is a book that must be read to be understood.
India's Blind Spot is without a doubt one of the best nonfiction books I've read and I'll strongly recommend it to others.
August 4, 2023
India's Blind Spot by Devashish Dhar talks about India's cities, their past, and the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. It's a solid book giving out some very relevant information and I thoroughly enjoyed reading it. What I particularly liked about the book is that it avoids jargon and speaks in a very easygoing everyday manner that one can quickly comprehend. Many times when writing non fiction authors tend to go overboard with the language thus making it difficult to connect with its inherent subject. Devashish Dhar avoids falling into that trap and keeps it simple and that adds to the effectiveness of the narrative. His observations especially about the post covid world and how the pandemic has affected the cities that we inhabit are top notch and the running theme of urbanization throughout makes one think of our lifestyles and the world that's around us. Overall, a very interesting and informative read
August 6, 2023
India's Blind Spot is an exceptional book by visionary author Devashish Dhar, delving into the intricacies of Indian urbanization with expertise and a transformative vision. The book's central theme revolves around the denial of urbanization and its profound impact on policy challenges. Dhar's keen insights address governance, infrastructure deficits, social marginalization, and environmental concerns.
Passionate about positive change in Indian cities, the book emphasizes the role of well-planned, sustainable urban centers in shaping India's destiny. Dhar urges policymakers, investors, and citizens to actively participate in India's urban transformation and his book is a blueprint for action and progress. With a focus on sustainable progress and inclusive development, this book serves as a beacon of hope, guiding India towards a brighter urban future for generations to come. A must read for all.
Passionate about positive change in Indian cities, the book emphasizes the role of well-planned, sustainable urban centers in shaping India's destiny. Dhar urges policymakers, investors, and citizens to actively participate in India's urban transformation and his book is a blueprint for action and progress. With a focus on sustainable progress and inclusive development, this book serves as a beacon of hope, guiding India towards a brighter urban future for generations to come. A must read for all.
August 4, 2023
Devashish Dhar's "India's Blind Spot" offers a thorough examination of urbanization in India, providing a nuanced understanding of the subject. The book's detailed research and comprehensive approach encompass multiple sectors, from governance to infrastructure development and environmental sustainability. It underscores the importance of inclusive policies that cater to marginalized communities, while also addressing pressing issues such as water scarcity and environmental degradation. By presenting practical solutions and highlighting the immense potential of Indian cities, this book serves as a valuable resource.
July 28, 2023
Devashish Dhar's "India's Blind Spot" delves into the complexities of modern Indian political economy. The book examines issues such as defining urban areas, addressing climate change, implementing effective economic development policies, managing pollution, optimizing land use, tackling housing shortages, ensuring women's safety, combating terrorism, promoting innovation, fostering a creative economy and tourism, maximizing the use of fixed assets, creating child-friendly cities, prioritizing public transport, and focusing on demand management.
August 10, 2023
The book explores the complex landscape of Indian urbanization. Devashish Dhar's research and analysis are exemplary, providing readers with a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities inherent in India's cities. The book serves as a wake-up call, urging policymakers to prioritize urban development and offering pragmatic solutions to bridge the gap. Devashish Dhar's holistic approach, coupled with his engaging writing style, makes this book a must-read for anyone seeking a comprehensive understanding of the urbanization phenomenon in India.
August 10, 2023
In "India's Blind Spot," Devashish Dhar skillfully navigates the complexities of urbanization in India, shedding light on its challenges and proposing viable solutions. The book's strength lies in its wealth of data, which lends credibility to its recommendations. It covers crucial sectors, including governance and urban economy, offering a comprehensive understanding of the issues at hand. This this book is a valuable resource for policymakers, researchers, and anyone interested in India's urban transformation. Go for it!!
August 17, 2023
The book explores the complex landscape of Indian urbanization. Devashish Dhar's research and analysis are exemplary, providing readers with a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities inherent in India's cities. The book serves as a wake-up call, urging policymakers to prioritize urban development and offering pragmatic solutions to bridge the gap. Devashish Dhar's holistic approach, coupled with his engaging writing style, makes this book a must-read for anyone seeking a comprehensive understanding of the urbanization phenomenon in India.
March 25, 2023
'India's Blind Spot: Understanding and Managing Our Cities in a Post-COVID World' written by Devashish Dhar, is well-researched, engagingly written, and provides a comprehensive and multidisciplinary perspective on Indian cities. It is recommended for anyone interested in understanding establishments and development of cities, and the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in the post-pandemic world.
Informative. Crisp. Highly recommended.
Informative. Crisp. Highly recommended.
July 24, 2023
"India's Blind Spot: Understanding and Managing Our Cities" is an essential guide for sustainable urban development in India. Devashish Dhar's comprehensive study and practical policy recommendations provide valuable insights for policymakers and urban planners. Dhar's emphasis on citizen participation and balanced growth makes this book a must-read for those interested in creating vibrant and inclusive cities.
July 25, 2023
Devashish Dhar's "India's Blind Spot" offers a thoughtful analysis of the challenges and opportunities presented by urbanization in India. The book's focus on policy solutions and innovations provides valuable insights for policymakers and urban planners. Dhar's emphasis on sustainable development and citizen engagement makes this an important resource for those interested in the future of Indian cities.
July 31, 2023
India's Blind Spot by Devashish Dhar is a remarkable book that delves deep into the challenges and opportunities presented by urbanization in India. The author skillfully navigates through the intricate web of issues, from land management and water scarcity to traffic congestion and urban poverty. Devashish Dhar's comprehensive understanding of the subject matter is evident throughout the book, and his policy solutions offer a roadmap for sustainable urban development.
August 2, 2023
Most of us live in cities but we seldom stop to think how these cities came to be or where they're leading to. This book gives an answer to these unasked questions and enunciates the importance of urbanisation and development while at the same time keeping a solid footing rooted in the traditions that's so prevalent in our society.
The writing is fluid and easy to understand and the examples given and the research quoted is of a very high order. It's a must read book for not only general citizens but also for people who are in positions of power and are taking decisions that are determining how our cities are progressing.
The writing is fluid and easy to understand and the examples given and the research quoted is of a very high order. It's a must read book for not only general citizens but also for people who are in positions of power and are taking decisions that are determining how our cities are progressing.
August 4, 2023
"India's Blind Spot" by Devashish Dhar is a captivating read that effortlessly appeals to both policy experts and non-experts alike. The book skillfully combines anecdotal and empirical evidence to shed light on the history and future of our cities. Devashish Dhar's background as a Public Policy Specialist and his impressive academic achievements lend credibility to his work. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and found it to be an accessible and enlightening exploration of urbanization in India.
August 9, 2023
This book is a must-read for anyone who is interested in understanding India's urbanization phenomenon. It gives a comprehensive view of the challenges that have hindered India's urban potential. It also provides some significant policy-related solutions that can lead toward a sustainable urban future.
The writing style makes it easy to grasp the concepts Dhar introduces in the book. Would definitely recommend it for people interested in non-fiction books.
The writing style makes it easy to grasp the concepts Dhar introduces in the book. Would definitely recommend it for people interested in non-fiction books.
August 10, 2023
Backed by evidence and expertise, India’s Blind Spot emphasizes the pivotal role of well-planned, sustainable cities in India's future. It takes a close look at modern ways of living and sustaining our cities while also keeping a foot firmly planted in the values of the past. A very well thought out and written book that’s highly recommended for policymakers, investors, and curious citizens seeking to understand and embrace India's urban potential."
August 10, 2023
Through an insightful analysis of urbanization, the book highlights the need for comprehensive solutions to address the challenges faced by urban areas. Author's emphasis on sustainable land management, vibrant city economies, and the inclusion of marginalized populations reflects a holistic approach to urban growth. With its well-sourced data this book offers a roadmap for India to harness the potential of its cities and emerge as a global leader in sustainable development
August 12, 2023
"India's Blind Spot" by Devashish Dhar provides a comprehensive study of modern Indian political economy. The book explores a wide range of topics, including urban definition, delimitation, climate change, economic development policies, pollution, land utilization, housing shortage, women's safety, terrorism, innovation, creative economy, tourism, fixed asset utilization, child-friendly cities, public transport, and demand management.
August 16, 2023
The book's strength lies in its well-researched examples and compelling narratives, effectively conveying the urgency of addressing the multidimensional issues faced by Indian cities. Dhar's crisp and concise writing style invites readers to actively engage with the material and recognize the pivotal role cities play in shaping India's future. Don't miss out on this must-read exploration of "India's Blind Spot."
August 17, 2023
India's Blind Spot, Devashish Dhar provides a much-needed wake-up call to policymakers and citizens alike. Through a compelling blend of research, analysis, and real-life examples, the book sheds light on the blind spot we have towards our cities and emphasizes their significance in India's growth story. This book is an invaluable resource for understanding the complexities of urbanization and the urgent need for proactive management.
August 17, 2023
India's Blind Spot: Understanding and Managing Our Cities by Devashish Dhar does a brilliant job of combining economics, history, and international relations to highlight the importance of well-planned, sustainable cities for India. The book provides insightful, evidence-backed analysis and offers comprehensive policy solutions to address the myriad challenges faced by Indian cities. Highly recommended!!
August 29, 2023
Basically it's about Indian cities and urbanization, Some facts, things and most importantly the close look at morden way of living and sustainability,
The author described well How cities play pivotal role in driving key and economical - political trends in coming years
The book incredibly helpful to understand the cities and their truth
I personally like the examples and facts discussed by the author
Recommended to the politicians, policemans and people who want to explore the cities 🔥
The author described well How cities play pivotal role in driving key and economical - political trends in coming years
The book incredibly helpful to understand the cities and their truth
I personally like the examples and facts discussed by the author
Recommended to the politicians, policemans and people who want to explore the cities 🔥
March 23, 2023
Lifts the discussion. Hard to put down.
The author offers a highly nuanced discussion on Indian urbanisation - how we got where we are, and what (a lot) needs to be considered to get where we deserve to be. Insights and anecdotes from economics, history, politics, policy making - all packaged expertly for a reader with little knowledge on the subjects. A must read!
The author offers a highly nuanced discussion on Indian urbanisation - how we got where we are, and what (a lot) needs to be considered to get where we deserve to be. Insights and anecdotes from economics, history, politics, policy making - all packaged expertly for a reader with little knowledge on the subjects. A must read!
March 22, 2023
A very timely book for people who are not public policy experts to create wide and deep understanding of issues our cities suffer. The range of urban issues covered in this book is very comprehensive. This book is key to understand the contemporary india and its future over the next couple of decades. Easy read and highly recommended.
July 21, 2023
Devashish Dhar's "India's Blind Spot" serves as a wake-up call, highlighting the urgent need for understanding and effectively managing Indian cities. The book's analysis of the denial of urbanization in Indian policy exposes the challenges hindering city development. Dhar's practical solutions and emphasis on citizen engagement make this book a valuable guide for urban planners and policymakers.
July 22, 2023
Devashish Dhar's "India's Blind Spot: Understanding and Managing Our Cities" is an invaluable resource for urban planners and policymakers. The book's insightful analysis and practical policy recommendations offer a comprehensive understanding of the complexities of urbanization in India. Dhar's emphasis on citizen participation and sustainable development adds depth to this important read.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews