Status Brief: Urban India – National Urban Conclave on Future Ready Cities provides a concise overview of India’s urban landscape across nine thematic areas, highlighting challenges, strategies, and actionable recommendations for sustainable development. With India expected to add over 400 million urban residents by 2040, the book emphasizes the need for robust infrastructure, affordable housing, digital governance, and inclusive planning. Drawing on the progress of past missions and programs, it offers illustrative case studies and insights to guide policymakers, planners, researchers, and practitioners in preparing India’s cities for the future. Compiled and edited by the Centre for Urban Studies (CUS), IIPA New Delhi, this report is the foundation for informed discussions and strategic action toward future-ready cities.