Understanding the National Urban Digital Mission (NUDM)

National Urban Digital Mission (NUDM): All That An Aspirant Should Know

The National Urban Digital Mission (NUDM) aims to digitize municipal services across India. Launched in 2021, the mission is designed to create a citizen-centric and ecosystem-driven approach to urban governance and service delivery, with goals set for completion by 2024. The Union Budget for 2024-25 has allocated ₹1,450 crore for this program, although it is still awaiting final Cabinet approval.

Goals of NUDM

The mission focuses on several key objectives:

• Digitization of Municipal Services: Services such as property tax payments, birth and death certificate applications, and grievance redressal will be available online.
• Citizen-Centric Governance: Prioritizing the needs of citizens and ensuring easy access to information and services.
• Ecosystem-Driven Approach: Encouraging collaboration among government entities, citizens, businesses, and other stakeholders for improved urban management.
• Improved Ease of Living: Enhancing urban life for citizens through technology-enabled solutions.

Key Features

NUDM encompasses several innovative features:

• Shared Digital Infrastructure: Establishing common digital platforms, building blocks, and standards for cities and towns.
• Open-Source Approach: Digital assets will be available as open-source resources, promoting wider adoption and innovation.
• Scalability and Speed: Utilizing technology to efficiently tackle urban challenges across the nation.

Progress and Funding

Initiated in 2021, the NUDM aims to encompass all cities and towns by 2024. The ₹1,450 crore allocated in the 2024-25 Union Budget reflects the government's commitment to this transformative project.

Opportunities

NUDM presents several advantages:

• Improved efficiency and transparency in urban services.
• Empowerment of citizens through easy access to information and services.
• Promotion of innovation and collaboration within the urban ecosystem through its open-source approach.

Challenges

Despite its potential, NUDM faces some challenges:

• Ensuring equitable access to digital infrastructure and services for all citizens.
• Addressing the digital divide and enhancing digital literacy.
• Maintaining data security and privacy.

Overall, the National Urban Digital Mission holds significant promise for transforming urban governance in India. By digitizing services, enhancing citizen participation, and promoting collaboration, it aims to create more livable and sustainable cities.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is the National Urban Digital Mission?
Answer: It is a government initiative aimed at creating a shared digital infrastructure for efficient and citizen-centric urban service delivery.

Q2. What are the key objectives of NUDM?
Answer: The main objectives include digitizing municipal services, promoting citizen-centric governance, and enhancing the ease of living in urban areas.

Q3. How is NUDM funded?
Answer: The mission is funded by the government, with ₹1,450 crore allocated in the 2024-25 budget specifically for its implementation.

Q4. What are the benefits of NUDM for citizens?
Answer: Benefits include easy access to information and services, improved efficiency and transparency in governance, and greater participation in urban development initiatives.

UPSC Practice MCQs

Question 1: What is the main aim of the National Urban Digital Mission?
A) To enhance rural services
B) To digitize municipal services
C) To improve agricultural productivity
D) To promote e-commerce
Correct Answer: B

Question 2: Which year was the National Urban Digital Mission launched?
A) 2019
B) 2020
C) 2021
D) 2022
Correct Answer: C

Question 3: How much funding was allocated for NUDM in the 2024-25 Union Budget?
A) ₹500 crore
B) ₹1,000 crore
C) ₹1,450 crore
D) ₹2,000 crore
Correct Answer: C

Question 4: What is a key feature of NUDM's approach?
A) Solely government-driven
B) Open-source digital assets
C) Focus on rural areas
D) Centralized data management
Correct Answer: B

Question 5: Which challenge does NUDM aim to address?
A) Climate change
B) Digital divide
C) Urban unemployment
D) Population control
Correct Answer: B