ASSESSING THE GROWTH OF URBAN AGRICULTURE AND POTENTIALITY OF GREEN MANAGEMENT FOR GREEN CITY MODEL IN JHARGRAM MUNICIPALITY, WB, INDIA

Urban agriculture, the practice of cultivating, processing, and distributing food within or around urban areas, is gaining momentum as cities grapple with challenges such as food insecurity, climate change, and rapid urbanization. As more than two-thirds of the global population is expected to live in urban settings by 2050 (United Nations, 2018), urban agriculture (UA) is increasingly seen as a sustainable response to urban food demands and environmental concerns. This practice serves multiple functions beyond food production,including improving food security,promoting sustainability, generating income, and strengthening communities. As urban populations grow, urban agriculture plays a vital role in ensuring access to fresh, nutritious food, especially in low-income neighbourhoods or food deserts. It reduces the environmental impact of food transportation by shortening supply chains and encourages the recycling of organic waste and use of eco-friendly practices like composting and rainwater harvesting. Jhargram is a scenic municipality located in the western part of West Bengal, India, known for its rich cultural heritage, royal history, and natural beauty. The primary objective of this research is to explore the emerging prospect and potentiality of urban agriculture in Jhargram municipality, with the broader aim of contributing to its transformation into a sustainable green city. The research begins by assessing the current urban landscape and land use pattern of the municipality, identifying underutilized or vacant spaces-such as rooftops, terraces, community plots, and public lands-that hold potential for conversion into productive agricultural zones.