Smart Cities Mission India – Benefits, Progress & How It Works
Cities That Think, Grow, and Care – The Vision of Smart India
Imagine living in a city where traffic signals work smartly, garbage bins tell when they’re full, water never leaks, and you feel safe walking in the streets at night. This is not a dream anymore—it’s the reality under India’s Smart Cities Mission.
Launched by the Government of India, this mission is transforming 100 cities across the country to become more livable, technology-driven, and citizen-friendly.
In 2024–25, the government is focusing on completing the final phase, with over 90% projects already completed. Let’s understand this scheme in simple language.
What is the Smart Cities Mission?
The Smart Cities Mission (SCM) was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 25 June 2015 under the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA).
Aim of the Scheme:
To improve the quality of life in cities by using technology, data, and people-friendly solutions.
Key Features:
- Use of smart technology in transport, lighting, energy, and safety
- Clean and sustainable infrastructure
- Good governance through e-services
- Citizen participation in city planning
- Area-based development (focus on selected localities)
The mission does not follow a “one-size-fits-all” model. Instead, each city creates its own Smart City Proposal based on its needs.
Who Can Apply?
This scheme is city-led. So individuals do not need to apply.
However, citizens are encouraged to participate in consultations through city websites or platforms like MyGov.
A total of 100 cities were selected through a competitive challenge process, ensuring fairness and quality planning.
What Benefits Will People Get?
Through Smart Cities Mission, citizens receive:
- Better mobility with smart traffic signals, e-buses, bicycle tracks
- 24×7 water supply and efficient sewage management
- LED street lighting and smart electricity grids
- Wi-Fi hotspots and CCTV for safety
- Mobile apps for municipal services
- Green open spaces, improved air quality
- Real-time dashboards for city services
These services make life easier, cleaner, and safer—especially for the middle class, poor, elderly, and women.
What Is the Process or Last Date?
There is no application for individuals.
Cities are selected, and their Smart City Proposals are funded by the Centre and State jointly.
Budget:
- Central Govt grant: ₹500 crore per city
- State & ULB contribution: Matching ₹500 crore
- Total planned investment: Over ₹2 lakh crore
Timeline:
- Phase 1: 2015–2020
- Phase 2: 2020–2025
- Completion deadline: June 2025
By March 2025, most cities are expected to finish all projects.
Real Impact – Official Quote and Progress
“As of April 2024, 6,900+ projects worth ₹1.5 lakh crore have been completed under the Smart Cities Mission.”
— Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs, mohua.gov.in
Cities like Surat, Indore, Bhopal, Pune, and Varanasi have emerged as role models. Smart solutions like public bike sharing, waste-to-energy plants, and command control centres are already operational.
These efforts are not just urban upgrades—they are improving the lives of millions every day.
How to Know If Your City Is Included?
You can check the list of 100 selected smart cities on the official portal.
Some major cities include:
- Ahmedabad
- Varanasi
- Lucknow
- Bengaluru
- Bhubaneswar
- Ranchi
- Chennai
- Indore
- Pune
- Jaipur
🔗 Official Link to City List and Updates: https://smartcities.gov.in
You can also visit your municipal corporation website for city-specific project information.
How Citizens Can Get Involved?
Even if you don’t apply, you can:
- Join city consultation programs
- Give suggestions through MyGov.in
- Use mobile apps launched by your city
- Stay informed via your local municipality
Citizens are the heart of the Smart City movement.
Read also:
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Final Thoughts – Cities that Care, Cities that Grow
India is growing fast, and our cities must grow with it. But growth with planning, safety, and sustainability is what the Smart Cities Mission offers.
The mission proves that with the right leadership, technology, and public support, India can build world-class urban spaces.
If your city is part of this scheme, participate. If not, demand better governance. Because every Indian deserves a city that works smartly for them.
Official Portal: https://smartcities.gov.in
Launched By: Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs, Government of India