How does Smart City in India address the issues of urban poverty and distributive justice? (150 words) upsc mains 2025 gs1 model answer

How does Smart City in India address the issues of urban poverty and distributive justice? (150 words)

The Smart Cities Mission (2015) aims to make Indian cities more sustainable, inclusive, and technology-driven. While primarily focused on improving infrastructure and governance, it also plays a significant role in addressing urban poverty and distributive justice.

1. Addressing Urban Poverty:

  • Affordable Housing: Initiatives like Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Urban) integrated with smart cities provide secure housing for slum dwellers.
  • Livelihood Creation: Smart city projects generate employment in construction, IT-enabled services, urban mobility, and waste management.
  • Digital Inclusion: Digital literacy programs and Wi-Fi hotspots bridge the knowledge gap for the urban poor, enhancing access to education and e-governance services.
  • Basic Services: Use of ICT ensures equitable access to water supply, sanitation, healthcare, and public transport.

2. Promoting Distributive Justice:

  • Participatory Governance: Through citizen engagement platforms and mobile apps, marginalized communities can voice concerns in city planning.
  • Inclusive Infrastructure: Barrier-free public spaces, e-rickshaw facilities, and gender-sensitive design promote accessibility for women, elderly, and differently-abled.
  • Resource Equity: Smart grids and water metering reduce wastage and ensure fair distribution of scarce resources.
  • Environmental Justice: Focus on green spaces, non-motorized transport, and renewable energy benefits poorer communities disproportionately affected by pollution and climate change.

Examples:

  • Ahmedabad Smart City: Redevelopment of slums with in-situ housing.
  • Pune Smart City: “Digital classrooms” project benefiting low-income children.

Conclusion:
By combining technology, citizen participation, and inclusive planning, Smart Cities can transform urban landscapes into engines of poverty reduction and equitable growth. However, success depends on ensuring that innovations remain accessible to all, not just the affluent.

Note: This Model Answer is only for Reference Purpose only

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