Understanding the definition of urban areas is essential for analyzing patterns of urbanization, development planning, and resource allocation. In India, the Census of India, conducted every ten years, provides the official classification of urban and rural areas. The definition of urban areas is not only based on population size, but also considers administrative status, economic activity, and infrastructure.
Table of Contents
1. Census Criteria for Urban Areas
According to the Census of India, an area is classified as urban if it fulfills either of the following criteria:
A. Statutory Towns
These are areas that have been declared as urban by state governments through statutory notifications. These towns include:
- Municipal Corporations
- Municipal Councils
- Cantonment Boards
- Notified Area Committees
These towns are recognized as urban units regardless of their population size or economic activity.
B. Census Towns
These are areas that do not have statutory urban status but fulfill all three of the following Census criteria:
- Minimum population of 5000
- At least 75 percent of the male working population engaged in non-agricultural pursuits
- Population density of at least 400 persons per square kilometer
These towns are treated as urban for census and statistical purposes but are still administered as rural areas by local governance structures.
2. Importance of Urban Classification
- Policy Making: Determines eligibility for central and state urban development schemes
- Resource Allocation: Influences funding, infrastructure projects, and planning priorities
- Urban Planning: Helps in designing transport systems, housing policies, and environmental regulations
- Statistical Analysis: Facilitates comparisons between urban and rural demographics, literacy, employment, and health indicators
3. Issues with Current Definition
- Administrative Lag: Many Census Towns remain under rural governance, which hinders planned urban development
- Underreporting of Urbanization: Due to strict criteria, some rapidly urbanizing villages may not qualify as urban
- Inconsistent Criteria: Different states may notify Statutory Towns based on varied political or administrative reasons
4. Way Forward
- Revisiting Criteria: Broader indicators like infrastructure access, migration patterns, and land use can be added
- Governance Reform: Areas meeting urban characteristics should be officially notified and given urban governance structures
- Decentralized Planning: Empowering urban local bodies with funds, functions, and functionaries is necessary
- Real-time Data Monitoring: Use of geospatial data and digital platforms can help in better urban classification and management
Conclusion
The Census definition of urban areas in India plays a pivotal role in shaping urban policy, planning, and development programs. While the current classification provides a structured framework, it needs periodic revision and modernization to keep pace with the dynamic changes in population and economy. A more inclusive and flexible approach to defining urban areas will help address the realities of India’s urban transformation more effectively.