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Center’s Smart Cities Mission shows significant progress in urban development

EconomyCenter's Smart Cities Mission shows significant progress in urban development

Smart Cities Mission (SCM) has achieved significant milestones as of November 27, 2023. With an ambitious vision, work orders have been issued for a staggering 7,959 projects of approximately Rs 1,71,224 crore. Demonstrating efficiency and progress, 6,271 of these projects, valued at Rs 1,16,269 crore, have already been successfully completed. The financial commitment to this transformative initiative is evident, with an impressive Rs 78,749.88 crore released, of which Rs 71,135.70 crore (90%) has been effectively utilized

Central govt initiated the Smart Cities Mission (SCM) on June 25, 2015, with the objective of promoting cities that offer essential infrastructure and a decent quality of life to their citizens. The mission aims to create clean and sustainable environments through the application of smart solutions. Over the years, 100 Smart Cities have been selected through four rounds of competition from January 2016 to June 2018.

The focus of SCM is to identify compact areas and establish replicable models that can serve as guiding examples for other regions within the same city or other aspiring cities nationwide.

The India Smart City Awards (ISACs) have recognized the best cities, projects, and innovations through four editions, with a publication of award-winning projects accompanying each edition. The mission has also produced numerous publications, newsletters, advisories, and documents, providing valuable resources for towns and cities across the country.

Platforms such as national and regional conferences, seminars, and webinars are utilized for peer-to-peer learning. Additionally, outcome indices like the Ease of Living Index have been introduced to facilitate cross-learning among cities.

The implementation of SCM at the city level is overseen by a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV), while at the state level, the State Level High Powered Steering Committee (HPSC) monitors mission progress. At the national level, an Apex Committee, headed by the Secretary of the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA), is responsible for monitoring implementation. Nominee Directors from MoHUA on the Boards of SPVs regularly assess progress in respective cities.

MoHUA maintains continuous communication with states and Smart Cities through video conferences, review meetings, field visits, regional workshops, and other channels. Smart Cities are subject to regular assessments based on various parameters, including project implementation and fund utilization, monitored through the Real Time Online Geospatial Management Information System (GMIS).

The implementation period of SCM has been extended until June 2024, with all Smart Cities expected to complete their projects within the stipulated timeframe.

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