What Is Smart Cities Mission? Key Facts, Goals, and City List Explained

What is the Smart Cities Mission?

Launched on June 25, 2015 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Smart Cities Mission is a flagship initiative by the Government of India. Its core aim is to make Indian cities more livable, sustainable, and economically vibrant by leveraging technology, smart governance, and citizen-first infrastructure.

With over 100 cities selected, the mission addresses key urban challenges and promises modern infrastructure, efficient public services, and better quality of life.

Why India Needs Smart Cities

• As per Census 2011, over 31% of India's population lives in urban areas.
• Cities contribute nearly 63% of India’s GDP.
• By 2030, 40% of Indians are expected to live in cities and contribute 75% to GDP.

Key Highlights of the Smart Cities Mission

Goals of the Mission

1. Better Urban Planning

Promotes mixed land use—residential, commercial, recreational—through smart zoning.

2. Housing for All

Supports the development of affordable housing, aligned with PMAY and other schemes.

3. Sustainable Mobility

Encourages walkable localities, cycling paths, and Transit-Oriented Development (TOD).

4. Smart Public Services

Facilitates online delivery of services, grievance redressal, and e-governance.

5. Urban Identity & Culture

Every city develops a unique identity through its food, art, local economy, or lifestyle.

Smart Solutions That Power the Mission

• Smart meters for electricity & water
• Solid waste management & composting
• Video crime surveillance
• Renewable energy integration
• Intelligent traffic management
• Smart parking & mobility solutions
• Telemedicine & e-health services
• Urban skill development centers
• Water treatment & leakage detection
• Public engagement platforms

Core Pillars of a Smart City

• Citizen-Centric Development
• Technology-Driven Governance
• Sustainable Resource Use
• City-Specific Innovation
• Convergence with missions like Swachh Bharat, Digital India & AMRUT

Financing the Smart Cities Mission

Funding Sources

Current Status (March 2025)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the Smart Cities Mission?
A mission to modernize Indian cities with smart infrastructure and services.

Who launched the Smart Cities Mission?
Prime Minister Narendra Modi in June 2015.

How many cities are part of the mission?
Currently, 100 cities across India are included.

Which ministry manages this mission?
The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs.

What are some major benefits of smart cities?
Better public services, mobility, safety, and urban living.

Are smart cities connected to other missions?
Yes, like AMRUT, Digital India, PMAY, and Swachh Bharat.

How is funding allocated?
Through central and state funds, PPPs, and loans.

What is the deadline for Smart City projects?
March 31, 2025.