The Smart Cities Mission (SCM) is a groundbreaking initiative launched by the Government of India. Its primary aim is to foster economic growth and enhance the quality of life for citizens by promoting local development. By leveraging technology, the mission seeks to create smart outcomes for urban dwellers. The goal is to develop 100 cities nationwide, ensuring they are both citizen-friendly and sustainable.
As of July 7, 2023, a total of 7,978 work orders have been issued for various projects under the SCM. Out of these, 5,909 projects, or 74 percent, have been successfully completed, showcasing significant progress in urban infrastructure development.
The Government of India has allocated a substantial sum of Rs 73,454 crore for SCM projects. As of now, Rs 66,023 crore, which constitutes 90 percent of the total funding, has been utilized effectively, demonstrating the commitment to urban transformation.
In the 2023 SCM Rankings, Surat city in Gujarat emerged as the top performer. This recognition highlights the effective implementation of smart solutions and urban planning in Surat.
SCM projects prioritize several core areas, including:
Key sectors include solid waste management, water supply, water conservation, urban mobility, and digital governance, among others.
Despite the positive developments, the SCM faces several challenges. These include administrative issues, execution gaps, coordination difficulties between government departments, data protection concerns, and the mobilization of funds. Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic has caused delays in project timelines.
The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) has launched various initiatives to enhance the impact of the SCM. Some of these programs include:
The future of the Smart Cities Mission looks promising as it aims to create sustainable and inclusive urban spaces. The mission is focused on accommodating the increasing urban population while preventing unplanned urbanization. It strives to ensure socio-economic benefits for marginalized communities within smart cities.
Q1. What is the primary goal of the Smart Cities Mission?
Answer: The primary goal of the Smart Cities Mission is to promote economic growth and improve citizens' quality of life through local development and smart technological solutions.
Q2. How many projects have been completed under the SCM as of 2023?
Answer: As of July 7, 2023, 5,909 projects, which is 74 percent of the total initiated, have been completed under the Smart Cities Mission.
Q3. Which city ranked first in the SCM Rankings for 2023?
Answer: Surat city in Gujarat topped the SCM Rankings for 2023, demonstrating effective smart urban solutions and development.
Q4. What are the main challenges faced by the SCM?
Answer: Key challenges include administrative and execution gaps, coordination issues among departments, funding mobilization, and delays caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Q5. What initiatives support the Smart Cities Mission?
Answer: Initiatives such as the National Urban Digital Mission, Ease of Living Index, and India Smart Cities Awards Contest support and enhance the impact of the SCM.
Question 1: What is the aim of the Smart Cities Mission?
A) To reduce urban unemployment
B) To develop 100 citizen-friendly cities
C) To increase rural population
D) To promote traditional farming
Correct Answer: B
Question 2: Which city topped the SCM Rankings in 2023?
A) Mumbai
B) Surat
C) Delhi
D) Chennai
Correct Answer: B
Question 3: How much funding has been allocated for SCM projects?
A) Rs 50,000 crore
B) Rs 73,454 crore
C) Rs 100,000 crore
D) Rs 60,000 crore
Correct Answer: B
Question 4: What percentage of the SCM funding has been utilized?
A) 50%
B) 75%
C) 90%
D) 100%
Correct Answer: C
Question 5: Which of the following is a focus area of SCM projects?
A) Agricultural development
B) Core infrastructure elements
C) Rural electrification
D) Traditional crafts
Correct Answer: B
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