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Sustainable Rural Landscape Development for Livelihood of Pastoral Community: a case of Bhitara Village, Western Banni, Kutch
No full textBanni grassland, an arid grassland system, is located in the district of Kutch, Gujarat, India, which was one of Asia’s largest grassland, spread over an area of 2500 km2. Consisting of two ecosystems in juxtaposition, viz., wetlands and grasslands, Banni’s fall under the Dichahnthium-Cenchrus-Lasiurus type of grass cover. It has a rich history, geography, biodiversity, and culture. Maldharis are the silvipastoralists who reside in Banni and are guarding, nurturing and protecting the grassland for over 450 years. Banni grassland saw various changes and imbalances in the ecosystem after the natural tragedy of the 1819 earthquake, damming of rivers, the invasion of Prosopis Juliflora, and scanty rainfall. The area under grassland has reduced from 142,000 hectares in 1989 to 63,000 hectares in 2009 while the area invaded by Prosopis juliflora has increased to 82,000 hectares (Koladiya et al., 2016). Several authors have raised concern over habitat degradation, desertification, and increased salinity in and around Banni grasslands, (Parikh and Reddy-1997). Among the three primary regions of Banni, the Western region, which depends on livestock for 96% of its income and practices traditional pastoralism (Guide, 2004), suffers the additional challenge of seasonal flooding, forcing them to shift among the Banni. Their reliance on grassland, seasonal migration, and local ways of utilizing scarce resources during droughts or summers all contribute to a dynamic culture of livelihood that is connected with land, water, grass, and pastoralism systems. With livestock rearing being the primary activity of the people of Banni, grassland degradation poses a major threat to their pastoral economy.
Different methods like stakeholder interviews, group discussions, household surveys, field visits, and mapping of layers will be carried out to identify the issues of the Bhitara village in Western Banni and will examine their traditional knowledge of resource management, and there a dependency on landscapes.
This research is an attempt to understand a landscape through the lens of the local pastoral community. By addressing these issues in depth effective grassland management strategies and sustainable interventions can be made by integrating the community with its landscape
Revitalisation of Post-Industrial Sites for Creative Industries: a case of Kaleeshwara and Somasundharam Mills, Coimbatore
No full textCoimbatore, the Manchester of South India, has been the hub of textile mills since late 1800s. The industrial revolution played a vital role in the city’s growth. Coimbatore is still one of the largest exporters of cotton yarns of India. These textile mills were the backbone of the city’s growth, and its economic boom. A few among such were the renowned Coimbatore Spinning and Weaving mills, Kaleeswarar mills, and Somasundharam mills. Located in the heart of the city, these mills were the important influencing factors of the city’s growth pattern.
As it so happened, a decline in these textile mills happened alongside Mumbai in the late 1980s. The introduction of synthetic fabrics, advanced technology in spinning mills and mismanagement in these pioneer mills led to their decline. Later today after almost 20 years of their downfall, these sites of industrial heritage are now merely under-utilised open spaces, lying in the heart of the city’s current Central Business District.
This study aims predominantly at understanding the co-existence of the city with its industrial heritage and how it is embedded in the urban ecology. To understand the downfall of these industries, the thesis explores the process of creative destruction and adopts the theory of New industrial urbanism to revive the lost industrial economy. The thesis also explores strategies for the transformation of these post-industrial site and weaving them into the urban fabric. It aims at exploring how interpretive design of such spaces can strengthen the cognitive connection to place and relate with time.
The site is studied by mapping and analysing the historic, cultural, socio-economic, and ecological factors. The study progressed with a critical analysis of the data gathered from the above-mentioned studies. The findings of this analysis will reveal the potentials and threats involved in the site and its surroundings, that would be addressed in the further discussions and recommendations.
The thesis aims at proposing a framework for the reclamation of these post-industrial sites by addressing the creative class to bridge the gap promoting the socio-economic growth of the city and revive its lost heritage. Besides serving the socio-economic needs, these derelict spaces could be treated as the vestiges in linking the lost connection of the city with its heritage
a Comprehensive Framework for Urban Development
No full textAs urban areas expand, there is a pressing need to address the positive and negative impacts of this growth. Urbanization brings economic development, improved infrastructure, and enhanced quality of life for many, but it also strains resources, exacerbates environmental degradation, and intensifies social inequalities. By examining the positive and negative impacts of rapid urbanization, with a focus on the need for green spaces, it seeks to understand how the adoption of SDGs can mitigate adverse effects and foster sustainable urban development. The lack of green spaces in contemporary urban layouts, however, constitutes an important concern. Sustainable urban development is critically needed, as seen by the decrease in green spaces in the face of growing urbanization. In terms of social, environmental, and economic aspects of sustainable development, urban open areas provide essential ecosystem services. The Gujarat Town Planning Scheme significantly contributes to the organization of spatial layouts and the facilitation of public land allocation. Through assessing the influence of town planning schemes (TPSs), a widespread spatial planning mechanism in Gujarat, valuable insights can be gleaned regarding how urban planning policies can be customized to address specific environmental challenges and promote sustainable practices. Land use planning is a crucial tool for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). In alignment with the SDGs, it is crucial to strengthen the scheme's emphasis on green spaces. This enhancement can significantly improve urban living conditions and citizen welfare. Particularly in Surat, a rapidly expanding city grappling with a scarcity of green areas, there is a pressing need for the development of blue and green infrastructure. This strategic approach is essential for enhancing the city's resilience and sustainability amidst its rapid growth. Embracing localized SDG indicators fosters community involvement in green space planning, fosters a sense of ownership, and improves environmental quality, public health, and overall well-being. This holistic approach not only elevates the quality of life for Surat's residents but also significantly contributes to the advancement of SDGs related to sustainable urban development. Identifying the concerns arising from rapid urbanization but also offering constructive pathways towards addressing these concerns through the integration of SDGs into urban planning practices fosters collaboration and innovation. It is envisaged that Surat and other urban centers in India can achieve
Abstract | V
“Strategic Integration of SDGs into Town Planning Schemes: A Comprehensive Framework for
Urban Development”
sustainable and inclusive growth in a positive and impactful manner. Collaboration and innovation are key to fostering inclusive development and contributing to SDG advancements in urban sustainability
पौधे लगाएं और सौर ऊर्जा से बिजली बनाएं : आर्य.( "Plant trees and generate electricity from solar energy: Arya.")
No full textSustainable Lifestyle and Climate-Resilient Design and Planning" began at SPA Bhopal. The event inaugurated by RSS leader Manmohan Vaidya focused on spirituality’s role in sustainable living. Key discussions included climate-resilient design traditional knowledge and environmental psychology. The conference was organized by SPA Bhopal in collaboration with other national SPAs and the Environmental Conservation Activity Institution
A case of Delhi Land Pooling Policy
No full textThe global housing affordability crisis presents a complex challenge influenced by
factors such as land prices, supply constraints, and regulatory dynamics. This
study delves into the evolution of Land Supply Models for affordable housing
provision in India, with a focus on the Delhi Land Pooling Policy. By analysing
existing literature and policy frameworks, the study highlights how limited land
supply, coupled with zoning regulations and infrastructure demands, contributes to
inflated land values and housing prices, particularly affecting low and middleincome
households. There is a critical need for a comprehensive examination and
reform of land supply mechanisms, considering evolving government roles and
policies.
Examining existing Land Supply Mechanisms in India reveals complexities in land
availability, cost dynamics, government policies, and stakeholder roles. Urban
areas, facing high demand, encounter significant obstacles due to escalating land
costs, prompting states to explore new models for assembling land for affordable
housing. Over the past decade, there has been a notable shift in the roles of the
state and private sector in land assembly. Government, traditionally a provider of
affordable housing, is now evolving policies to include mandatory affordable
housing components within land governance frameworks, while engaging the
private sector to address demand, with the government acting as an enabler and
regulator. Various policies and schemes, such as TP Schemes, Pooling Policies,
and Affordable Housing Policies, exemplify this shift by adopting a Private landbased
Incentivized Subsidized Housing provision approach. By integrating
affordable housing components into land governance policies and engaging the
private sector, opportunities can be explored to enhance land supply efficiency,
project feasibility, and overall affordability.
The implementation of the Delhi Land Pooling Policy serves as a case study for
evaluating the efficiency and effectiveness of this shift towards providing affordable
housing. Allowing private landowners to pool their land for development, the policy
illustrates the interplay between government regulations, private sector
Emerging Land Models for Affordable Housing – A case of Delhi Land Pooling Policy
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involvement, and affordable housing provision. The study focuses on the policy's
feasibility through meticulous examination of its financial aspects, aiming to bolster
the supply of affordable housing within the affordable segment. Scenario analysis
demonstrates the financial feasibility of the Delhi Land Pooling Policy with current
norms and regulations. However, amidst the competitiveness of demand and
supply in the broader NCR domain, various scenarios warrant scrutiny. This
analysis uncovers potential scenarios that offer equitable returns and profits,
benefiting both developer entities and the affordable segment.
Despite the policy's financial feasibility and promise of good returns, it has not seen
implementation on the ground. Major issues include the lack of trunk infrastructure
provided by DDA, leading to hesitation among developers to commence land
development. Trust issues among consortium members and landowners, driven by
lack of transparency and personal interests, also hinder progress. Additionally,
landowners and developers are critical of high EDC & IDC prices, which they find
burdensome. The significant price dichotomy between EWS units under DDA and
DE exacerbates the problem, enabling beneficiaries to sell allotted units for higher
prices. Concerns also arise regarding LIG segment units exceeding affordability
limits and landowners' differing development targets conflicting with sector plan
controls of FAR use and density distribution.
While the research concludes by acknowledging the financial efficiency of the Delhi
Land Pooling Policy and its potential to supply more affordable housing, it also
highlights significant shortcomings requiring detailed study. Addressing these
challenges through emerging land models is essential to tackle the affordable
housing challenge effectively
a Case of Gift City, Gujarat
No full textCities around the world are experiencing rapid growth, posing significant
challenges for urban planners striving to accommodate this influx of people while
ensuring a high quality of life. This thesis delves into the intricate relationship
between urbanization, planning strategies, and the creation of livable cities, using
the case study of GIFT City, a burgeoning financial hub in India, as a focal point.
By examining GIFT City's development trajectory, this research aims to identify
opportunities for enhancing its livability through strategic urban planning
interventions. The study begins by investigating the fundamental factors that
contribute to a city's livability and poses critical questions regarding GIFT City's
current performance in this regard. The overarching aim is to develop a
comprehensive framework tailored to enhancing liveability specifically in
Greenfield Cities like GIFT City. This framework encompasses the identification of
relevant liveability indicators, an evaluation of GIFT City's status using these
indicators, and the proposition of planning interventions aimed at achieving
enhanced liveability outcomes. While the scope of the study primarily focuses on
generic liveability indicators, it acknowledges the potential limitations in capturing
the unique characteristics of GIFT City. Data availability and methodological
constraints may impact the accuracy of the evaluation, and further refinement of
the framework through stakeholder consultations and pilot testing is anticipated.
The expected outcomes of this research include a comprehensive list of potential
liveability indicators pertinent to urban development, a nuanced understanding of
GIFT City's strengths and weaknesses regarding liveability, and a robust
framework for planning and development that prioritizes liveability in GIFT City. By
integrating these elements, the revised master plan for GIFT City has the potential
to serve as a model for sustainable urban development, addressing the challenges
posed by rapid urbanization while enhancing the quality of life for its residents
बेरीनाग नगरपालिका को स्मार्ट सिटी बनाने को लेकर हुई बैठक
No full textProfessor Gayatri Nanda from SPA (School of planning and Architecture ), an organization working on smart city projects, stated that the work will be completed within the next 20 years
Polo Forest Gujarat
No full textThis thesis examines the role of ancient texts in the conservation of temples, focusing on the case study of Polo Forest in Gujarat, India. Polo Forest, situated amidst the Aravalli Range, is famous for its rich archaeological heritage. Through a multidisciplinary approach combining historical research, archaeological analysis and conservation studies, this thesis examines how ancient texts have informed and guided conservation efforts in Polo Forest. By examining textual references to temple construction, design principles and ritual practices, this study clarifies the importance of these texts as an invaluable source of knowledge for understanding and preserving the temple heritage of western India. The thesis also explores the challenges and opportunities associated with integrating traditional methods with modern conservation practices, highlighting the importance of community engagement, interdisciplinary collaboration and sustainable management strategies in safeguarding the cultural heritage of Polo Forest for future generations.
Ancient temples dotting the landscape of the Polo Forests of Gujarat, India, stand as a timeless testimony to the region's rich cultural heritage. These temples evoke the memory of a bygone era, each structure imbued with deep historical significance and architectural splendor. However, amidst the serene tranquility of Polo Forest lies a significant challenge. Preservation and protection are these ancient buildings against the relentless march of time and encroachment of modernity.
At the heart of this conservation effort lies the profound influence of ancient texts, which serve as invaluable repositories of knowledge, providing insight into the complex art of temple construction, design aesthetics and ritual practices. These texts, ranging from ancient texts to medieval texts, provide a glimpse into the spiritual, cultural and architectural principles that underpinned the creation and sustenance of temples in ancient India. By studying these textual sources, scholars and conservationists gain a deeper understanding of the philosophical underpinnings, technical intricacies, and symbolic representations embedded in the temple architecture of Polo Forest.
One such text of profound importance is the Shilpasastra, a corpus of ancient Indian architectural texts that describe the principles and guidelines governing temple construction. Based on the wisdom contained in these texts, conservationists are able to understand the structural elements, proportions, and decorative techniques used in the construction of the Polo Forest temples. Moreover, Shilpasastra provides insights into the symbolic significance of temple architecture, elucidating the cosmic, religious and philosophical dimensions inherent in every aspect of temple architecture
