What does urban mobility look like when metros and flyovers aren't the norm? This article explores how people in India’s small and mid-sized cities move: on foot, by cycle, and through shared autos and e-rickshaws; and why these everyday modes are often missing from formal planning. Drawing from Nāgrika’s recent research and panel discussion, it highlights overlooked policy gaps, invisible data systems, and powerful community-led solutions that can shape a more inclusive and

In India’s smaller cities, cars get the spotlight while pedestrians and cyclists fight for space. There exists glaring contradictions in India's urban mobility: from footpaths turned parking lots to sidelined e-rickshaws, despite most people relying on walking, cycling, or informal transport! As cities chase costly metro dreams, are we overlooking the modes that truly keep them moving?

भारत के छोटे शहरों में गाड़ियों को खास तवज्जो मिलती है, जबकि पैदल चलने वालों और साइकिल चालकों को जगह के लिए संघर्ष करना पड़ता है। हमारे शहरी परिवहन में कई साफ-साफ विरोधाभास दिखते हैं — फुटपाथों को पार्किंग में बदल दिया गया है, ई-रिक्शा जैसे साधनों को नजरअंदाज किया जाता है, जबकि ज़्यादातर लोग चलकर, साइकिल से या अनौपचारिक साधनों से ही सफर करते हैं। शहर महंगे मेट्रो प्रोजेक्ट्स के पीछे भाग रहे हैं, लेकिन क्या हम उन साधनों को नजरअंदाज़ कर रहे हैं जो सच में शहरों को चलाते हैं?

India's startup scene is shifting, with Tier-II and Tier-III cities driving a surge in new businesses. Smaller cities now account for 50% of the country’s startups, spurred by local support, skilled talent, and government initiatives. Yet, challenges like funding and infrastructure remain. Could these smaller cities become the next big innovation hubs? Shows like Shark Tank are already putting a spotlight on these rising stars; could they be the key to unlocking their potenti