During the last few years, Delhi has experienced significant prosperity and expanding employment opportunities along with considerable improvements in infrastructure, basic services and amenities. Home to about 17 million people, the city attracts thousands of migrants every year, who arrive in search of livelihoods and educational opportunities. Delhi has emerged as a sort of microcosm of the entire country, unmatched in characteristics and spirit by any other city of India.

The Delhi Human Development Report 2013 discusses the various aspects of the prevailing human development scenario in Delhi, including employment, livelihood, educational opportunities, healthcare, basic services and amenities, as well as the issue of public safety that has been a source of widespread concern in the recent past.

While encompassing both the achievements and emerging challenges that constantly confront this vibrant city, the report not only relies on the latest statistics and available information, but also analyses the findings of a large survey of about 8000 households. This was carried out to identify the perceptions and aspirations of the citizens belonging to various groups. The Report documents the tremendous positive changes taking place in Delhi in numerous spheres, signifying the dynamics of its socio-economic development along with the monumental task of ensuring that the benefits of prosperity accrue to all, especially the less privileged sections of its society. In essence, therefore, this report is both a mirror to the city and an endeavour to promote inclusion and equity at various levels.