Question : SMART CITIES



(a) Whether a draft concept paper on developing smart cities in the country has been prepared and if so, the highlights of the same;

(b) The perceived definitions/components of a smart city and the details of the blue print prepared to provide the institutional, physical, social and economic infrastructure for these cities;

(c) The estimated time and amount of funds required for the development of these cities; {

(d)The details of proposals received from various States in this regard, State-wise and the criteria proposed for identifying these cities; and

(e)Whether the Government has sought assistance, financial or otherwise from foreign countries in this regard and if so, the details thereof?

Answer given by the minister


THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF URBAN DEVELOPMENT (SHRI BABUL SUPRIYO)

(a): Yes, Madam. The Draft Concept Paper talks about energy efficiency, improved physical infrastructure, environment sustainabifity, access to information, use of clean technology & ECT, participation of private sector, citizen participation and smart governance.

(b): Smart Cities are those that are able to attract investments and experts & professionals. Good quality infrastructure, simple and transparent online business and public services processes that make it easy to establish an enterprise and run at efficiently without any bureaucratic hassles are essential features of an investor-friendly smart city.

Institutional Infrastructure, Physical infrastructure, Social Infrastructure & Economic Infrastructure refer to the activities that relate to governance planning and management of a city, urban mobility system, energy system, water supply system, sanitation facilities, education, healthcare and creation of employment opportunities.

(c) to (e): The Concept Paper on developing 100 Smart Cities is presently at draft stage, which is available on the Ministry`s website (www.indiansmartcities.in). Consultations with State Governments are being held. The Guidelines for selection of cities and budget required shall be finalized after approval of the scheme.

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