Small Cities, Big Change
- connect2783
- Nov 1, 2023
- 3 min read
Updated: Jul 18
India’s smaller cities found themselves on the global map, with G20 flags flying not just in metros! From Hampi’s long-awaited infrastructure upgrades to grassroots participation in Aizawl and Jowai, the summit left tangible traces. But behind the glitter of global diplomacy, some cities faced disruption and displacement. What does this sudden spotlight mean for cities not used to it? And what lingers after the delegates leave?
India’s G20 Presidency in 2023 has featured over 200 meetings held across 60 cities.
Hosting 125 nationalities, the decentralised organisation of the global summit has been an opportunity for the smaller cities.
The G20 Cultural and Sherpas meeting in Hampi accelerated the development of long-demanded basic infrastructure. The town now boasts of improved roads, drinking water facilities and restrooms, enhancing the experience for travellers and residents alike.
With the influx of tourists due to the delegates’ visit, the local economy has also been boosted. In Amritsar, Punjab government’s investment of Rs 10 crore in refurbishing government schools ahead of the officials’ visit significantly improved infrastructure.
Besides this, the summit also witnessed “Jan Bhagidari”, or public participation in large numbers. Cycle rallies organised in smaller towns such as Jowai and Batote encouraged the active participation of government schools in raising awareness about the G20, NEP and foundational learning.
Mizoram hosted the B20 session, an official G20 business community forum. In preparation, the local community played a vital role by actively participating in cleanliness drives. The Young Mizo Association and the local council even extended support to areas without official programmes for dignitaries, demonstrating their spirit to establish Aizawl’s potential for future investments.
In Rudrapur, however, the G20 meet sparked controversy as numerous structures were demolished to revamp the highways. While this may have improved road quality, traders argue that they have been operating in the area for decades and now face the sudden loss of their businesses.
G20’s impact on India’s urban landscape has been a mixed bag of changes. Infrastructure upgrades mandated right before hosting international presence have raised concerns about the efficiency of local bodies. Nevertheless, the summit prompted smaller cities to recognise the need for efficient coordination and resource management.
India’s G20 Presidency in 2023 has featured over 200 meetings held across 60 cities. Hosting 125 nationalities, the decentralised organisation of the global summit has been an opportunity for the smaller cities.
The G20 Cultural and Sherpas meeting in Hampi accelerated the development of long-demanded basic infrastructure. The town now boasts of improved roads, drinking water facilities and restrooms, enhancing the experience for travellers and residents alike.
With the influx of tourists due to the delegates’ visit, the local economy has also been boosted. In Amritsar, Punjab government’s investment of Rs 10 crore in refurbishing government schools ahead of the officials’ visit significantly improved infrastructure.
Besides this, the summit also witnessed “Jan Bhagidari”, or public participation in large numbers. Cycle rallies organised in smaller towns such as Jowai and Batote encouraged the active participation of government schools in raising awareness about the G20, NEP and foundational learning.
Mizoram hosted the B20 session, an official G20 business community forum. In preparation, the local community played a vital role by actively participating in cleanliness drives. The Young Mizo Association and the local council even extended support to areas without official programmes for dignitaries, demonstrating their spirit to establish Aizawl’s potential for future investments.
In Rudrapur, however, the G20 meet sparked controversy as numerous structures were demolished to revamp the highways. While this may have improved road quality, traders argue that they have been operating in the area for decades and now face the sudden loss of their businesses.
G20’s impact on India’s urban landscape has been a mixed bag of changes. Infrastructure upgrades mandated right before hosting international presence have raised concerns about the efficiency of local bodies. Nevertheless, the summit prompted smaller cities to recognise the need for efficient coordination and resource management.
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