Urbanization and Housing Challenges in India: An Analysis of Slum Populations, Homelessness, and Housing Shortages

Abstract

This study aims to examine and discuss the issues of housing shortages, slum populations, and homelessness in urban India. As Indian cities become increasingly crowded due to the influx of people migrating from rural areas in search of employment and improved living conditions, the demand for housing has surged, resulting in a significant housing shortage. Ensuring affordable shelter and essential amenities for the urban poor presents a major challenge for governments in developing nations like India, where the urban population continues to grow rapidly, often accompanied by an increase in low-income households. This paper aims to explore urbanization and growth of million-plus citiesin India and examine the housing shortage in urban areas, with a particular focus on slum populations and homelessness.