Architecture as a Trigger for Socio-Economic Development

Settlements in rural India are socio-culturally unique. Their physical cluster based pattern, occupational pattern, cultural dimensions and economy set them apart from the rest of the world. But the most important parameter that keeps them distinct and grounded is their people and culture. Urban settlements in India are growing rapidly, diminishing the rural counterpart. Many villages are becoming part of Urban Agglomeration or are under heavy pressure of urbanization. It is without doubt that, cultural dimension of rural habitats is one of the major parameters for which our country is recognized worldwide. Most of Indian rural and peri-urban areas have long-established craft clusters or communities which impact the livelihood of the residents. These crafts in many settlements were the second best employment generator after agriculture be it pottery, toy making or textiles. These craft communities are under transition due to changing times. Social cohesiveness of such settlements are also in danger due to migration and changing social dynamics. This impacted their settlement patterns adversely. These aspects needs urgent attention of policy makers and Indian rural areas are in dire need of rejuvenation. Architecture or built environment plays an important role in creating an identity of an area. It also provides people the suitable platform or arena to perform their activities, social or occupational. Appropriate spaces with right mix of user centric activities creates excellent places to inhabit and thrive. Wisely designed architectural programs in underprivileged areas can trigger growth potential. Truly said by Winston Churchill, “we shape our buildings; thereafter they shape us.” This concept paper aims to investigate the power of right architecture as a trigger for socio-economic growth of a less focused area with the help of case studies and pre – post scenario analysis. The paper also discusses the tailored approach to design right architecture insert in such existing settlement so, that its inherent characteristics don’t get affected adversely as well as it doesn’t dilute its conventional cultural identity.