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Smart Cities Mission

Central Scheme (All India) Infrastructure Application Mode: MIXED Active
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This profile has been independently compiled from official gazette notifications and verified web domains. Source Authority Link: smartcities.gov.in Authority: Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs • State/Region: Central Scheme (All India) • Last Audited: 10 Sep 2026

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A central government initiative to develop 100 selected cities into sustainable, citizen-friendly urban areas through core infrastructure upgrades and digital integration.

Detailed Summary

Overview

The Smart Cities Mission (SCM) was launched in 2015 by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs to promote cities that provide core infrastructure, a clean and sustainable environment, and a high quality of life to citizens through the application of smart solutions.

Core Infrastructure Components

  • Adequate water supply and smart metering.
  • Assured electricity supply with renewable energy integration.
  • Sanitation, including solid waste management and sewage treatment.
  • Efficient urban mobility and public transport.
  • Affordable housing, especially for the poor.
  • Robust IT connectivity and digitalization of services.
  • Good governance, especially e‑governance and citizen participation.
  • Sustainable environment, including green spaces and climate resilience.

Implementation Approach

Each selected city forms a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) headed by a full‑time CEO, with representation from the state government, urban local body, and private sector. The SPV is responsible for project planning, fund mobilization, implementation, and monitoring. Funding comes from the central government (₹500 crore per city), state government, and ULBs, supplemented by convergence with other schemes and private investment.

Monitoring and Evaluation

Progress is tracked through the Smart Cities Online Portal, which captures key performance indicators, project milestones, and financial expenditure. Independent evaluation agencies conduct periodic reviews to ensure accountability and course correction.

Key Benefits & Financial Assistance

Comparison Criteria Benefits
Key Benefits
  • Installation of smart water meters and SCADA-based water management systems.
  • Deployment of intelligent traffic management systems, including adaptive signal control and incident detection.
  • Establishment of Integrated Command and Control Centres (ICCC) for real-time surveillance, disaster management, and municipal service coordination.
  • Development of pedestrian-friendly zones, widened footpaths, and segregated cycle lanes.
  • Implementation of waste-to-energy plants and source segregation for solid waste management.
  • Provision of free Wi‑Fi hotspots and smart lighting in public areas.

Eligibility Criteria Profile

Comparison Criteria Eligibility
  • The scheme applies to municipal corporations, municipal councils, and nagar panchayats of the 100 cities selected through the national challenge.
  • All urban residents residing within the jurisdictional limits of these nominated Smart Cities are eligible to avail the benefits of the implemented projects.
  • No restrictions based on age, gender, income, caste, religion, or disability status apply for availing the urban infrastructure and services developed under the mission.

Application Process Guide

  1. Identification of cities: States nominate cities based on the Smart Cities Challenge criteria; the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs selects the final list of 100 cities.
  2. Formation of SPV: Each selected city creates a Special Purpose Vehicle under the Companies Act, 2013, with equity participation from the state government, ULB, and private partners.
  3. Project preparation: The SPV prepares a Smart City Proposal (SCP) detailing vision, plan, funding, and implementation strategy.
  4. Approval and fund release: The SCP is appraised by the Ministry; upon approval, central funds are released in installments linked to milestones.
  5. Implementation: The SPV undertakes execution of projects through tendering, contracting, and monitoring as per the SCP.
  6. Monitoring: Progress is reported monthly on the Smart Cities Online Portal; third‑party audits verify compliance and impact.

Common FAQs regarding this Yojana

The mission covers 100 cities selected through a competitive challenge process conducted by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs. The list is available on the official website smartcities.gov.in under the 'Selected Cities' section.

Residents benefit through improved water supply with smart metering, reduced traffic congestion via intelligent traffic systems, enhanced safety from ICCC surveillance, better waste management, and upgraded public spaces such as footpaths, cycle lanes, and parks.

No. The Smart Cities Mission focuses on urban infrastructure and service-level improvements. It does not provide direct cash subsidies or transfers to individuals.

Implementation is overseen by a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) created for each city, which includes representatives from the state government, the urban local body, and private sector partners. The SPV reports to the state's urban development department and the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs.

Project status, financial expenditure, and key performance indicators are updated regularly on the Smart Cities Online Portal (smartcities.gov.in). Citizens can access city‑wise dashboards under the 'Projects' tab.