United Nations:
India and
China have together lifted at least 125 million out of slums between 1990 and 2010, and improved the lives of slum dwellers more than any other country, a new UN report has said.
India has lifted 59.7 million people out of slum conditions since 2000. Slum prevalence fell from 41.5 per cent in 1990 to 28.1 per cent in 2010. This is a relative decrease of 32 per cent, the study found, according to the report called State of the World's Cities 2010/2011.
"Lessening poverty and improving conditions in slums are part of
India's urban development policy," the report said, pointing out four main reasons for it.
First, building the skills of the urban poor in their chosen businesses, and by providing them micro-credit. Second, providing basic services and development within slum settlements, thus improving living conditions.
Third, providing security of tenure to poor families living in unauthorized settlements, improving their access to serviced low-cost housing and subsidized housing finance.
Fourth, encouraging the poor to take part in decision-making and community development efforts.
China has made the greatest progress on this front with improvements to the daily conditions of 65.3 million urban residents, the report said.
PTI
First Published: Friday, March 19, 2010, 13:53