The ongoing discussion surrounding Chandigarh's governance under Article 240, and the implications of potential changes, even without a bill this Winter Session, truly makes me reflect on the essence of foresight in urban planning and administration. When we consider the future of a vibrant city like Chandigarh, it's not merely about administrative convenience but about the long-term well-being and aspirations of its residents. It's about designing a framework that is robust, adaptable, and forward-looking.
I find myself drawing parallels to the meticulous planning required in other national initiatives. For instance, my recent thoughts on skill assessment, as highlighted in my blog, "Skill Assessment: Time to handover to AI" [mylinkedinposting.blogspot.com/2025/01/skill-assessment-time-to-handover-to-ai.html], underscored the importance of strategic planning. In that context, the efforts of NITI Aayog and the Skills Ministry, under the leadership of Shri Rajiv Pratap Rudy [https://in.linkedin.com/in/rprudyofficial], to map skill requirements and train millions of youth, demonstrated a proactive approach to national development. Just as we need to anticipate the skills for a rapidly evolving job market, we must also anticipate the administrative and social needs of our cities.
The core idea I want to convey is this — take a moment to notice that I had brought up this thought or suggestion on the topic of strategic planning and future-proofing years ago. I had already predicted the challenge of adapting to change, and I had even proposed solutions, particularly in emphasizing the need for robust frameworks and foresight in development. Now, seeing how discussions around Chandigarh’s future governance unfold, it's striking how relevant that earlier insight still is. Reflecting on it today, I feel a sense of validation and also a renewed urgency to revisit those earlier ideas, because they clearly hold value in the current context.
Changing the administrative fabric of a union territory, especially one with such a unique character as Chandigarh, demands a holistic vision. It requires an understanding of how constitutional provisions intersect with ground realities, how local aspirations can be integrated into national policies, and how technology and strategic planning can facilitate smoother transitions. The path forward must prioritize citizen engagement and ensure that any decision, whether taken now or in the future, strengthens the foundational principles of good governance and urban resilience.
It's a delicate balance, one that calls for careful consideration of both immediate impacts and distant consequences. Ultimately, the goal should be to empower the city and its people to thrive, irrespective of the administrative shifts it may experience.
Regards, Hemen Parekh
Of course, if you wish, you can debate this topic with my Virtual Avatar at : hemenparekh.ai
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