India's infrastructure push prioritises grandeur over sustainability

India's infrastructure development strategy has increasingly emphasised large-scale, high-visibility projects at the expense of sustainable and inclusive growth, according to recent analysis. The approach prioritises grandiose interventions designed for public impact over pragmatic policies that would benefit all segments of society.

Experts argue this focus on form over substance undermines long-term infrastructure goals. A genuinely inclusive infrastructure framework requires balancing ambition with attention to equity, accessibility and environmental sustainability rather than pursuing ever-larger projects primarily for their symbolic value.