ShodhPatra: International Journal of Science and Humanities

Spatial Planning for Sustainable Rural-Urban Integration: Assessing the National Rurban Mission in Khamdong Cluster, Sikkim, India

This paper examines the spatial, infrastructural, and economic potential of the Khamdong Cluster in Sikkim using the National Rurban Mission (NRuM) as the conceptual frame. The main aim is to examine the facilities that are presently available, to identify spatial gaps and to develop long-term plans that will accommodate demographic growth up to 2041. For the study, a mixed-methods approach consisting of primary household surveys, Geographic Information Systems (GIS) mapping, and deficiency analysis against NRuM statutory guidelines was used. Findings point out a mostly farming economy that is being strangled by the lack of a localised agro-processing facility. Furthermore, water supply scarcity is noticed, which is currently being met only at 50 per cent of the 70 litres per capita per day national standard. Social infrastructure mapping has revealed substantial geographic accessibility challenges caused by mountainous areas, thus the introduction of mobile healthcare immediately has been suggested. Keeping in view the 2041 scenario of sustainable rural-urban integration, the research work has come up with spatial measures such as decentralization of cold-storage facilities, implementation of integrated rainwater harvesting systems, and provision of health care services at the primary level. In the final analysis, the article makes a case for inclusive rural growth, which can be attained through the adaptation of inflexible national policy frameworks to specific geomorphological realities of the Himalayan landscape.