Subject: Economy

The emergence of Smart Cities represents a paradigm shift in urban development, integrating technology and data-driven solutions to enhance the quality of life. India's rapid urbanization, with over 34% of the population living in urban areas, necessitates innovative approaches to city management and development.

Smart Cities: Concept and Components

• Technology Integration: Implementation of Internet of Things (IoT) and digital solutions for efficient resource management and service delivery.
• Sustainable Infrastructure: Focus on green buildings, renewable energy, and waste management systems.
• Citizen Engagement: Digital platforms for enhanced civic participation and transparent governance.
• Economic Growth: Creation of innovation hubs and technology parks to boost local economies.

Relevance for Urban Development

• Data-Driven Decision Making: Real-time monitoring of city services through integrated command centers.
• Resource Optimization: Smart metering and efficient distribution of water, electricity, and other resources.
• Enhanced Mobility: Implementation of intelligent traffic management and public transportation systems.
• Quality of Life: Reduction in urban poverty from 13.7% in 2012 to 12.55% in 2022.

Impact on Rural-Urban Divide

• Digital Divide: Risk of technological disparity between urban and rural areas.
• Economic Concentration: Potential clustering of opportunities in smart cities.
• Migration Pressures: Increased rural-to-urban migration seeking better opportunities.

Smart Villages: Need and Implementation

• PURA (Providing Urban Amenities to Rural Areas):

  • Focus on physical, electronic, and knowledge connectivity.
  • Integration of rural development initiatives with modern amenities.

• RURBAN Mission:

  • Development of rural growth clusters with urban facilities.
  • Ended in March 2022 but laid foundation for rural transformation.

Way Forward

• Balanced Development: Integration of Smart Cities Mission with rural development initiatives.
• Budget Allocation: Significant allocation of ₹82,577 crore for urban development in 2024-25.
• Rural Focus: Enhanced allocation of ₹1,80,233 crore for rural development ensuring balanced growth.

The future of India's development lies in creating a synergy between smart cities and smart villages, ensuring inclusive growth while bridging the rural-urban divide through initiatives like Digital India and Skill India Mission.