Advancements in India’s Smart Cities Mission

December 31, 2024

Recent studies by IIM Bangalore highlight the Smart Cities Mission in India has led to improvements in education and safety, as well as the impact of urban initiatives across various cities. The findings are part of the SAAR – Sameeksha series, which assesses urban project outcomes.

Enhancements in Education

The education study revealed that 71 smart cities implemented 9,433 smart classrooms in 2,398 government schools. This initiative resulted in a 22% increase in student enrolment from 2015-16 to 2023-24. Economically weaker sections benefited the most from these developments. Cities like Ajmer, New Delhi Municipal Council, and Tumakuru demonstrated increased attendance and improved learning experiences. Additionally, digital libraries were established in 41 cities, accommodating 7,809 students. These libraries serve as vital resources for competitive exam preparation. Teachers, particularly in senior secondary education, reported increased comfort in using smart classroom technology.

Urban Safety Improvements

The urban safety study focused on women’s safety through real-time monitoring. Over 59,802 CCTV cameras and emergency call boxes were installed in 93 smart cities. These systems are connected to Integrated Command and Control Centers (ICCCs). Cities such as Chennai, Nagpur, and Tumakuru showed remarkable improvements in safety. Nagpur experienced a 14% reduction in crime rates. Women in these areas reported feeling more secure in public spaces. Advanced monitoring systems and evidence-based policing have effectively reduced harassment and crime in regions with enhanced safety measures.

SAAR Platform and Future Policies

The SAAR platform, launched in 2022, connects academic research with government initiatives. It has involved 29 leading institutions, including IIMs and IITs, in completing 50 impact assessments. The insights gained are expected to influence future urban development strategies .

Overview of the Smart Cities Mission

Launched in 2015, the Smart Cities Mission aims to enhance infrastructure and improve quality of life. By November 2024, 91% of its projects were completed, showcasing innovative and replicable models for urban development.

GKToday Notes:
SAAR – Sameeksha: SAAR stands for Sameeksha, a platform evaluating urban project impacts. Launched in 2022, it connects academia and government, involving 29 institutions in 50 assessments.
Integrated Command and Control Centers (ICCCs): ICCCs are centralised hubs for urban management. They integrate various surveillance systems, enhancing public safety and response efficiency in smart cities across India.
Smart Cities Mission: Initiated in 2015, this mission aims to improve urban infrastructure. By 2024, 91% of its projects were completed, promoting sustainable and innovative urban solutions.

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