What Do “Smart Cities” Mean? Analyze their applicability to India’s urban growth. Will the disparities between rural and urban areas grow? Provide justifications for “Smart Villages” in the context of the RURBAN Mission and PURA. (200 words) [UPSC 2016]
Model Answer Significance of the Sagarmala Programme The Sagarmala programme is a transformative initiative by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, aimed at promoting port-led development in India. This programme leverages the strategic advantages of ports to stimulate economic growth andRead more
Model Answer
Significance of the Sagarmala Programme
The Sagarmala programme is a transformative initiative by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, aimed at promoting port-led development in India. This programme leverages the strategic advantages of ports to stimulate economic growth and enhance the country’s maritime infrastructure. Key significance includes:
- Reduced Logistics Costs: Sagarmala seeks to lower logistics costs for both domestic and international trade by improving connectivity between ports and production centers, making Indian goods more competitive in global markets.
- Increased Efficiency: The programme focuses on modernizing port infrastructure and using digital technologies to streamline operations, ultimately improving cargo movement and the ease of doing business in the maritime sector.
- Promotion of Coastal Shipping: By shifting more cargo transport to coastal and inland waterways, which currently contribute only 6% to the transport modal mix, the programme aims to enhance sustainability and reduce road congestion.
- Job Creation and Economic Growth: The initiative is projected to boost merchandise exports by approximately $110 billion by 2025 and create around 10 million new jobs, significantly impacting the economy.
- Regional Development: Sagarmala aims to revive traditional trade routes with regions like Africa, West Asia, and Southeast Asia, strengthening India’s position in global trade.
- Community Development: Funds from the programme will support skill development, livelihood generation, and coastal tourism, benefiting local communities.
Challenges Associated with the Sagarmala Programme
Despite its potential, the Sagarmala programme faces several challenges:
- Resource Mobilization: Investment mobilization and timely budgetary support remain critical hurdles, as highlighted by ICRA .
- Complex Taxation: The shipping industry is burdened by a complex tax regime, which increases operational costs and deters investment .
- Poor Coordination: A report from a Parliamentary Standing Committee pointed out inefficiencies due to lack of coordination among ministries, leading to delays and increased costs .
- Environmental Concerns: Infrastructure development poses risks to fragile ecosystems, including coastal erosion and challenges associated with dredging .
- Disaster Vulnerability: Coastal regions, particularly on the eastern coast, are at risk from natural disasters like cyclones, necessitating resilient infrastructure .
- Security Issues: Developing numerous small ports could heighten security vulnerabilities, especially along the western coast, due to geopolitical tensions .
Addressing these challenges through better coordination, integrated planning, and climate-resilient infrastructure is essential for the success of the Sagarmala programme.
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Smart Cities are urban areas that use digital technology to enhance performance, well-being, and reduce costs & resource consumption across the city. They integrate information and communication technology (ICT) with Internet of Things (IoT) to manage assets and resources efficiently. Features iRead more
Smart Cities are urban areas that use digital technology to enhance performance, well-being, and reduce costs & resource consumption across the city. They integrate information and communication technology (ICT) with Internet of Things (IoT) to manage assets and resources efficiently. Features include smart infrastructure, intelligent traffic management, sustainable energy solutions, and improved public services.
Relevance for Urban Development in India
Smart cities aim to improve urban living standards by offering better public services, such as clean water, efficient waste management, and reliable transportation. For instance, Ahmedabad and Pune have implemented smart traffic management systems to ease congestion and improve air quality.
They focus on sustainable development by incorporating green technologies and renewable energy sources, reducing the environmental footprint of urbanization. The Delhi Smart City Project emphasizes solar energy and electric vehicle infrastructure.
Smart cities attract investments and create job opportunities in technology and infrastructure sectors, contributing to overall economic growth.
Impact on Rural-Urban Differences
While smart cities aim to address urban challenges, they risk increasing rural-urban disparities by concentrating resources and development in urban areas. This can lead to the neglect of rural areas and exacerbate inequalities.
Arguments for ‘Smart Villages’
PURA aims to bridge the gap between urban and rural areas by providing urban-like amenities in rural settings. Implementing smart technologies in villages can improve quality of life, infrastructure, and economic activities, thereby reducing migration to cities.
The RURBAN Mission focuses on transforming rural areas by integrating urban amenities, economic development, and infrastructure improvements. Smart villages would benefit from this approach by fostering sustainable development and empowerment in rural areas.
Conclusion
While smart cities are crucial for urban development in India, there is a need to balance this with initiatives for smart villages to prevent widening rural-urban gaps. Programs like PURA and the RURBAN Mission can help in creating sustainable and inclusive development across both urban and rural areas.
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