A Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Member of Parliament (MP) is set to propose the construction of high-tech cities, dubbed ‘NaMo Nagar,’ in every state of India. This proposal, submitted as a Private Member’s Bill, is scheduled for discussion in the Rajya Sabha on Friday, August 2nd. Dr Bhim Singh, the Rajya Sabha MP from Bihar, argues that rapid urbanization in recent decades has led to a surge in urban populations exceeding rural populations. While acknowledging the government’s efforts towards urban development, Singh emphasizes the need for further action as the rate of urbanization remains relatively low. He cites the government’s 2015 mission to develop 100 smart cities, aimed at promoting sustainable and inclusive urban development. Singh also mentions the Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT), launched in 2015, which focuses on improving essential services and infrastructure in urban areas, including water supply and sewerage systems. However, Singh points out that despite these initiatives, reports often highlight the challenging living conditions in many cities. He notes that even Delhi, the capital, and Mumbai, the economic hub, are not exempt from these issues. To illustrate the potential benefits of well-planned urban spaces, Singh uses the example of Chandigarh. Known for its thoughtfully designed urban layout and efficient public transport system, Chandigarh has successfully reduced congestion and improved residents’ quality of life. Singh believes that replicating this model across India is essential. He advocates for the construction of ‘NaMo Nagar’ in every state, emphasizing that these modern and technologically advanced cities will drive economic growth and infrastructure development.
The concept of a Private Member’s Bill is crucial to understanding Singh’s proposal. Private members, those MPs who are not part of the government’s ministerial team, can introduce bills. These bills, known as Private Member’s Bills, are distinct from government bills, which have the backing of the government and represent its legislative priorities. The Speaker of the Lok Sabha or the Chairperson of the Rajya Sabha has the authority to determine whether or not a private bill is accepted. While government bills can be discussed any day, Private Member’s Bills are only considered on Fridays. It’s worth noting that the Parliament hasn’t passed a private member’s bill since 1970, despite passing 14 such bills in the past, six of which were passed in 1956. This Friday, August 2nd, the Rajya Sabha will dedicate time between 2 pm and 4.30 pm to discuss these private members’ bills, including Singh’s proposal for ‘NaMo Nagar’ cities.
