Discuss the initiatives taken by the Government of India to build smart cities, and highlight the…

Question

Discuss the initiatives taken by the Government of India to build smart cities, and highlight the challenges in doing so.

Ghissu Editorial · Accepted Answer

The Government of India launched the Smart Cities Mission in 2015 for 100 cities, using Special Purpose Vehicles, citizen-led proposals, links with AMRUT and Integrated Command and Control Centres in every city. Challenges include weak municipal finances and capacity, exclusion of the urban poor and poor waste management.

**Introduction**

The Smart Cities Mission⟦2⟧⟦1⟧ addresses India’s urbanisation by transforming 100 cities into technology-driven, sustainable urban centres, tackling infrastructure and governance challenges.

**Institutional Framework and Governance**

1. **SPVs and Scheme Integration**: Special Purpose Vehicles ensure local accountability; integration with AMRUT⟦3⟧ and DILRMP creates a coordinated urban development ecosystem.  
2. **Citizen Participation and State Issues**: Participatory planning is encouraged, but ==Andhra Pradesh⟦4⟧’s CAG report highlights institutional weaknesses with 82 ULBs failing solid waste compliance.==

**Implementation Challenges and Outcomes**

1. **Project Completion and Technology Use**: 94% of projects are complete nationally; all cities have Integrated Command Centres using AI and IoT, though utilisation and tech integration vary.  
2. **Social Inclusion and Financial Constraints**: Benefits often favour affluent areas over informal settlements; many SPVs face revenue generation issues beyond government grants.

**Urban Infrastructure and Service Delivery**

1. **Waste and Utility Management**: ==Andhra Pradesh’s ULBs process only 46% of collected waste, with legacy waste issues; smart meters improve resource efficiency.==  
2. **Transport and Digital Governance**: Cities like ==Visakhapatnam== enhance connectivity via port-led corridors; e-governance platforms improve citizen services but digital divides persist.

**Way Forward**

1. **Revenue and Capacity Building**: Municipal bonds, land monetisation, and PPPs can boost finances; targeted training can strengthen ULBs.  
2. **Inclusive and Tech-Driven Development**: Plans must address informal settlements; expand AI and IoT for sustainability and resilience.

**Conclusion**

The mission’s transformative potential hinges on addressing governance, financial, and social challenges to build inclusive, resilient smart cities aligned with Viksit Bharat 2047.

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