While nobody can deny the fact that cities are the engines of economic growth and are essential for harnessing the benefits of agglomerations and economies of urbanization, integrated and inclusive rural transformation is just as important as urban development in promoting sustainable and equitable growth. Urban development often receives more attention and resources than rural development — which must be given due priority in the development agenda — but not at the cost of rural development.
Neglecting rural areas can lead to a widening gap between urban and rural areas and can result in unsustainable migration towards cities, causing problems in both sectors. In cities, this can not only overburden the infrastructure and services in urban areas but also results in unplanned urban sprawl and the emergence of slums and shanty towns as well as distortions in the already under pressure property market. Read Full Op-Ed
