The Million Plus Cities and Towns of India

There are more than 1,000 cities and towns around the country that have a population of over one million people. These places are home to some of the most diverse and interesting cultures on the planet. From mega-cities like Tokyo and Mumbai to smaller towns like Innsbruck and Graz, each place has its unique character and story to tell.

What Makes a City Million Plus? 

The definition of a million-plus city has changed over time. In the past, a city with a population of one million or more was considered a million-plus city. However, this definition is no longer accurate, as many cities in India now have populations that exceed one million.

The current definition of a million-plus city is an urban agglomeration with a population of one million or more. An urban agglomeration is defined as a contiguous urban area, which includes the city itself and any adjoining outgrowths.

As per this definition, there are currently 52 million-plus cities in India. These cities are home to nearly 600 million people, which is approximately half of India’s urban population.

Some Million Plus Cities and Towns of India

1. New Delhi: The capital of India, New Delhi is a megacity with a population of over 25 million people. It is one of the oldest cities in the country and is home to many historical sites and landmarks.
2. Mumbai: The largest city in India, Mumbai is a bustling metropolis with a population of over 20 million people. It is the financial and entertainment capital of the country and is home to some of the most famous Bollywood stars.
3. Bangalore: Often referred to as the “Silicon Valley of India”, Bangalore is a major tech hub with a population of over 12 million people. It is also one of the greenest cities in the country and is home to many parks and gardens.
4. Chennai: The capital of Tamil Nadu, Chennai is a major cultural centre with a population of over 11 million people. It is known for its music, dance, and art scene, as well as its delicious food.
5. Hyderabad: The capital of Telangana, Hyderabad is a historic city with a population of over 11 million people. It is known for its beautiful architecture, pearl industry, and delicious Hyderabadi cuisine.
6. Pune: The second largest city in Maharashtra, Pune is a major educational and cultural centre with a population of over seven million people. It is home to many universities and colleges, as well as historical sites like the Shaniwar Wada fort.

These are just some of the many cities and towns around India that have a population of one million or more people. Each place has its own unique culture and history that make it worth exploring.

Significance Of Million Plus Cities

Million Plus Cities are the most important drivers of India’s economic growth. They are the engines of our economy and account for a large share of our GDP. According to a report by McKinsey, by 2025, these cities are projected to contribute nearly 60% of India’s GDP.

There are several reasons why Million Plus Cities are so important to the Indian economy:

1. They are the primary markets for most companies and therefore play a critical role in driving demand and consumption.
2. They generate a large share of tax revenues for the government.
3. They are home to a majority of India’s skilled workforce and therefore play an important role in attracting investment and creating jobs.
4. They also play a key role in India’s exports, as they are the source of a large share of our exportable goods and services.
5. Million Plus Cities are therefore critical to India’s economic growth and development. We need to invest in these cities to ensure that they continue to drive our economy forward.

Conclusion

The million-plus cities and towns of India are home to a large and growing population. While the majority of these residents live in urban areas, there is a significant number who live in rural areas as well. The population of these cities and towns is expected to continue to grow in the coming years, as more people move to urban areas in search of employment and better opportunities. The government is working to improve infrastructure and services in these cities and towns, to accommodate the growing population and provide residents with the necessary amenities. With proper planning and implementation, the million-plus cities and towns of India can continue to thrive and provide a good quality of life for its residents.