Rethinking Social Inclusivity. The Case of Urban Villages in Delhi

Abstract

This study analyses the socio-spatial inclusion and exclusion of Delhi’s urban villages under the framework of inclusive and safe urban development. Unlike slums, urban villages receive limited policy attention, despite their important role in housing rural migrants and supporting local economies. Their exclusion from official planning makes them vulnerable to marginalisation or gentrification. Using a qualitative technique, the study combines policy analysis with comparative case studies of Hauz Khas and Zamrudpur. Findings reveal a gap between policy intent and implementation, facilitated by fragmented governance, dated planning regulations, and inadequate finance. The two cases illustrate distinct outcomes driven by selective planning, political influence, and administrative neglect. The paper recommends for a context-sensitive, participatory planning acknowledging unique characteristics of urban villages, along with inclusive, localised policy reform.