Q : How does smart city in India, address the issues of urban poverty and distributive justice? ( 2025 PYQ, 10 Marks )

Q :  How does smart city in India, address the issues of urban poverty and distributive justice?  ( 2025 PYQ, 10 Marks )

Introduction 

The Smart Cities Mission (2015) aims to promote sustainable and inclusive urban development through technology, efficient service delivery, and citizen participation. It envisions cities that are not only digitally advanced but also socially equitable and responsive to the needs of the urban poor.

Main Body 

Addressing Urban Poverty through the Smart City Mission

1. Inclusive Urban Infrastructure:
• Development of affordable housing, water, sanitation, and transport facilities in slums through projects like “Affordable Housing in Partnership” and “Integrated Command and Control Centres (ICCCs)” ensures better quality of life for the urban poor.
2. Slum Redevelopment and Upgradation:
• Smart City projects integrate in-situ slum redevelopment (e.g., in Pune, Ahmedabad) under PMAY (Urban) to provide tenure security and improved amenities without displacement.
3. Livelihood Creation and Digital Empowerment:
• Smart cities promote digital literacy, start-up hubs, and e-governance platforms—enhancing job opportunities and financial inclusion.
• Example: Bhopal Smart City’s incubation centres and digital skill training programs empower urban youth.
4. Accessible Urban Services:
• Technology-driven solutions—such as smart transport, e-health, and e-education platforms—make essential services more inclusive for marginalized sections.

Promoting Distributive Justice

Equitable Resource Allocation:

• By focusing on both core and peripheral areas, cities like Indore and Surat have adopted models where development benefits reach low-income neighbourhoods, not just business districts.

Data-Driven Decision-Making:

• Use of real-time data analytics helps target welfare schemes efficiently ensuring transparency and reducing leakages in service delivery.

Green and Sustainable Urbanism:

• Development of eco-parks, non-motorized transport, and renewable energy projects enhances environmental justice by improving living conditions for all citizens.

Social Inclusion through Design:

• Barrier-free infrastructure, gender-sensitive public spaces, and affordable mobility enhance spatial justice a key component of distributive fairness.

Conclusion : 

Smart cities in India represent a pragmatic and inclusive step toward sustainable urban transformation — integrating technology, equity, and citizen-centric governance to ensure growth that is both efficient and just.