A review on slums identification and policies in Urban Punjab, India

Growing populations, expanding urban areas, declining resources and lack of management are responsible for the growth of settlements with dark narrow streets, which are collectively called ‘Slums’. The definition of term ‘Slum” is given by various organizations at international, national and state level; describe the slum condition very clearly in that particular area. In India, many states have their own definition for slum and slum types. In Punjab state, while following its state definition, municipalities have identified slums type poorly built structures which need up gradation. But, at national level, to improve the housing structures, avail facilities and development of such areas, many policies are made and implemented by following national definition (Census of India or National Sample Survey Organization) of slums. The main focus of the study is to understand the subject of identification of different type of slums while preparing the policies at national and state level. This review study is a theoretical perspective on the concern of state versus national identification of slums and scenario of policy implementation in Class I cities of Punjab.