Urban Agriculture in Bangalore: Enhancing Sustainability, Livelihoods, and Climate Resilience in the Context of Population Dynamics

Divya Rajeswari Swaminathan, Bangalore University
Sharath Hulihalli Manjunatha, Bangalore University

Urban agriculture (UA) is emerging as a vital strategy in addressing the interlinked challenges of sustainability, livelihoods, and climate resilience in rapidly urbanizing cities like Bangalore. As the city's population continues to expand, driven by economic growth and migration, the demand for food, water, and other resources intensifies. This study explores how UA practices can contribute to food security, environmental sustainability, and economic livelihoods, particularly for marginalized urban communities. By integrating UA into Bangalore’s urban landscape, the potential to reduce the urban heat island effect, improve air quality, and enhance green spaces becomes evident, contributing to climate resilience. Furthermore, UA offers sustainable livelihoods, especially for low-income groups, by fostering income generation through local food production, reducing dependence on distant agricultural systems, and promoting circular economies. Using GIS mapping and participatory research methods, this paper assesses the spatial distribution and potential expansion of UA in Bangalore. It also examines the policy and infrastructural challenges to scaling UA initiatives within the city’s socio-economic and demographic context. Ultimately, the study highlights UA as a key component in creating resilient urban systems that support sustainable population growth while mitigating the impacts of climate change.

Keywords: Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Internal Migration and Urbanization, Population, Environment, and Climate Change, Economic Demography

See extended abstract.