Roadmap for Answer Writing

1. Introduction (50-60 words)

1. 1. • Define the Smart Cities Mission (SCM):
        Start by briefly introducing the Smart Cities Mission, launched by the Indian government in 2015. Highlight its aim to create sustainable, inclusive cities with enhanced infrastructure, better quality of life, and a clean environment through technology-driven solutions.
      • Objective of the Analysis:
        State that the question aims to assess the effectiveness of the mission’s implementation.

2. Key Achievements of the Smart Cities Mission (120-140 words)

1. 1. • Operationalization of ICCCs:
        Mention the Integrated Command and Control Centres (ICCCs) that were established in all 100 cities to monitor and manage urban systems.
      • Fund Utilization:
        The central government released 86% of the funds (₹49,000 crore) by December 2023. This is an indicator of financial commitment and progress.
      • Project Completion:
        Out of the 7970 projects worth ₹1,70,400 crore, 6419 projects have been completed, and 1551 are in progress.
      • Progress in Cities:
        Highlight the cities where 57 cities have achieved 80%-100% progress, showcasing the mission’s effectiveness in most urban centers.

3. Challenges in Implementation (120-140 words)

1. 1. • Governance Issues (SPVs):
        Critically discuss how Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs) responsible for implementation face challenges such as frequent CEO transfers and unclear guidelines, leading to inefficiencies.
      • State Funding Issues:
        Only 28 cities have received their full share of funds from states/ULBs, which is crucial for project execution.
      • Private Funding (PPP model):
        Despite the mission’s guidelines to raise 21% of funds through PPPs, half of the cities have not been able to launch any projects under this model.
      • Intercity Disparity:
        Discuss the contrasting performance among cities, with Northeastern cities facing slow progress despite receiving substantial central funding.
      • Monitoring and Coordination Issues:
        Problems in monitoring convergence schemes like AMRUT and Swachh Bharat Mission, where multiple stakeholders cause coordination difficulties.
      • Lack of Public Consultation:
        Many Smart City Forums, such as in Amravati and Imphal, have not met or have met only sparingly, limiting the involvement of public representatives in decision-making.

4. Critical Evaluation (60-80 words)

1. 1. • Effectiveness of the SCM:
        Summarize the dual nature of SCM’s implementation. While positive outcomes like improved infrastructure, technological integration, and successful city models exist, the challenges in governance, funding, and regional disparity affect the overall effectiveness.
      • Way Forward:
        Suggest improvements, such as better coordination between central and state governments, effective stakeholder engagement, and stronger governance structures.

5. Conclusion (40-50 words)

1. 1. • Final Assessment:
        Conclude by acknowledging that the Smart Cities Mission has the potential to transform urban India but needs careful addressing of its governance and funding issues to be truly effective across all cities.

Relevant Facts for Answer

1. 1. 1. Key Achievements:
         • ICCCs operationalized in all 100 cities.
         • 86% of funds (₹49,000 crore) released by the government as of December 2023.
         • 6419 of 7970 projects completed; 1551 projects in progress.
      2. Challenges in Implementation:
         • CEO turnover and unclear SPV guidelines leading to project delays.
         • Only 28 cities have received 100% state funding, affecting project execution.
         • 50% of cities could not initiate projects under the PPP model.
         • Regional disparities: Cities like Surat, Ahmedabad, and Pune performed well, while Northeastern cities lagged.
         • Coordination issues with convergence schemes such as AMRUT and Swachh Bharat.
         • Limited public consultation, with very few Smart City Forum meetings in cities like Amravati and Imphal.