SSC CGL DEST Previous Year – Urbanisation & Smart Cities

India is urbanising rapidly. The urban population of India is expected to reach nearly 600 million by 2030, making India one of the most urbanised countries in the world. Urbanisation brings both opportunities and challenges. Cities are centres of economic activity, innovation and cultural exchange. They provide access to education, healthcare, employment and a wide range of services. However, rapid and unplanned urbanisation is creating serious problems. Many cities in India are struggling with inadequate infrastructure, traffic congestion, air and water pollution, slums and a shortage of affordable housing. The Smart Cities Mission was launched by the Government of India in 2015 to transform 100 cities into smart, sustainable and liveable cities. The mission focuses on improving urban infrastructure and services through the use of technology. Smart solutions for water supply, waste management, transport, power and governance are being implemented in cities across the country. The AMRUT scheme aims to provide basic urban infrastructure such as water supply, sewerage and parks to smaller cities and towns. Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana aims to ensure housing for all urban poor by 2022. Metro rail networks are being expanded in several cities to provide efficient and affordable urban transport. The challenge of making Indian cities inclusive, where the benefits of urban development reach the poor and the marginalised, remains. Participatory planning and governance, where citizens are involved in decision-making, is important for making cities work for everyone.