UPSC Mains 2025 General Studies I
Q. How does the Smart City initiative in India address the issues of urban poverty and distributive justice?
Introduction
Rapid urbanization in India has intensified problems of urban poverty, inequality, and inadequate infrastructure. According to the NITI Aayog, nearly 35% of India’s population lives in urban areas, with a significant share residing in informal settlements. To tackle these challenges, the Government launched the Smart Cities Mission in 2015 to promote sustainable, inclusive, and technology-driven urban development in 100 cities.
How Smart Cities Address Urban Poverty and Distributive Justice
- Affordable Housing and Slum Redevelopment
Smart city planning integrates housing for economically weaker sections (EWS).
Policy Link
- Convergence with Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Urban) for slum redevelopment and affordable housing.
Example
- Slum redevelopment projects in Indore and Ahmedabad under smart city plans aim to provide dignified housing and basic services.
Impact
- Promotes equitable access to housing, reducing urban inequality.
- Improved Urban Infrastructure and Basic Services
Smart city projects focus on water supply, sanitation, waste management and public transport.
Evidence
- Smart cities emphasize 24×7 water supply, integrated transport and digital governance.
Example
- Pune smart city initiatives include improved public transport and sanitation infrastructure.
Outcome
- Enhances quality of life for urban poor living in underserved areas.
- Inclusive Urban Planning through Area-Based Development
The Smart Cities Mission promotes Area-Based Development (ABD) which includes:
- Slum redevelopment
- Retrofitting of old areas
- Redevelopment of neglected urban spaces.
Example
- Bhopal adopted ABD to upgrade infrastructure in underdeveloped urban areas.
Significance
- Reduces spatial inequality within cities.
- Digital Governance and Access to Services
Smart cities promote e-governance platforms that improve access to welfare schemes.
Example
- Smart service portals allow citizens to access subsidies, grievance redressal, and public services.
Institutional Support
- Initiatives supported by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs.
Impact
- Enhances transparency and accountability, benefiting marginalized communities.
- Employment and Livelihood Opportunities
Smart cities promote skill development, start-ups and urban employment.
Example
- Integration with programs like Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Urban Livelihoods Mission.
Impact
- Supports self-employment, street vendors and informal workers.
- Social Justice through Public Spaces and Mobility
Inclusive public infrastructure ensures equitable access to urban spaces.
Example
- Development of pedestrian-friendly streets, cycling tracks, and accessible public spaces in cities like Surat.
Outcome
- Promotes inclusive urban mobility and social equity.
Challenges and Criticism
Despite progress, concerns remain.
- Critics argue that area-based development benefits limited zones rather than entire cities.
- The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Urban Development has noted uneven implementation across cities.
Conclusion
The Smart Cities Mission seeks to address urban poverty and distributive justice through inclusive infrastructure, affordable housing, digital governance and livelihood opportunities. However, ensuring equitable benefits across entire cities and stronger participation of marginalized communities will be essential to realize the vision of inclusive and sustainable urban development.