• Ramchander
• Dr. Arjun Lal Meena

Slum concentration in rapidly growing cities presents both a problem of urban development and a window of opportunity for more inclusive development. The "Blue City" of Jodhpur, Rajasthan, has experienced significant rural-to-urban migration and population increases over the last few decades, leading the formation of a significant number of informal settlements. These slums, characterized by inadequate housing, unavailability of sanitation, limited access to safe drinking water, and insecure land tenure have grave implications for both urban planners and policymakers. This paper will explore the public policy interventions and urban development strategies for slum upgradation in Jodhpur, with an emphasis on sustainable, participatory, and inclusive approaches. The findings present national and state level public programs such as Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission (JNNURM), Rajiv Awas Yojana, and Rajasthan Urban Infrastructure Development Program (RUIDP) for their contributions to housing deficits and the upgrading of basic services. Special emphasis is directed to policies intended to establish and promote tenure security, community engagement, public-private partnerships, and bringing slum dwellers into the urban fabric. The research also evaluates the success of infrastructural programs such as potable water supply, underground sewerage, waste disposal, and housing programs for low-income families. One of the findings indicates that physical infrastructure alone cannot ensure long-term improvement, unless pursued at the same time with social development. Strategies focused on livelihood creation, skill development, providing access to health care and education are therefore essential to ensure an holistic approach to upgrading. Also, participatory planning that brings the active engagement of slum communities in decision-making has emerged as the cornerstone of effective and sustainable interventions. The paper also indicates the importance of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) mapping and spatial planning tools intended for the mapping of clusters of slums and ranking of interventions in Jodhpur. The evaluation of gaps and achievements in existing policies proposes a multi-dimensional approach that engages affordable housing, social equity, and environmental sustainability. Upgrading slums in Jodhpur, therefore, becomes a question of not simply a better living situation but also a means to inclusive urban development, poverty reduction and improved quality of life for marginalized individuals.

Historical Background of Slums in Jodhpur, Socio-Cultural Dimensions of Slums in Jodhpur, Transformation of Traditional Lifestyle and Festivals, Economic Aspects of Slums in Jodhpur, Environmental & Health Issues in Jodhpur's Slums, Critical Policy Gaps in Slum Upgradation, Long-Term Vision for a Slum-Free Jodhpur.

"Policy Strategies and Urban Development Interventions for Slum Upgradation in Jodhpur City", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.12, Issue 9, page no.f289-f305, September-2025, Available :http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2509539.pdf

"Policy Strategies and Urban Development Interventions for Slum Upgradation in Jodhpur City", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org | UGC and issn Approved), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.12, Issue 9, page no. ppf289-f305, September-2025, Available at : http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2509539.pdf