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India's Tier-2 Cities Shine in Living Standards
29 Jan
Summary
- Emerging urban centers now surpass larger metros in living standards.
- Key reforms like Jan Vishwas Act simplify government interactions.
- National missions boost infrastructure for better quality of life.

Emerging urban centers in India are now outperforming larger metropolitan areas in the latest Ease of Living rankings. The Economic Survey 2025-26 highlights that cities like Pune, Navi Mumbai, and Indore now offer superior quality of life, benefiting from essential infrastructure and employment access without the extreme population pressures of megacities.
Government reforms and national missions are significantly contributing to these improvements. The Jan Vishwas Act aims to simplify regulations by decriminalizing minor offenses, while initiatives like the Smart Cities Mission are modernizing infrastructure. Additionally, programs like the Jal Jeevan Mission and PMAY have expanded access to basic amenities, enhancing everyday living conditions.
The survey suggests that future-ready cities will be those that effectively manage growth and service delivery, minimize commuting times, and ensure dependable civic services. The current advantage of Tier-2 cities lies in their lower congestion and enhanced governance, leading to better daily outcomes for residents.



