Smart Cities Mission is one of its kinds and does not follow a ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach. Only a broad framework has been given to cities in which they have to conceptualize their idea of a Smart City and plan their pathway to ‘smartness’.

Ministry of Urban Development has so far selected 60 Smart Cities in various rounds and based on the Smart City Proposals submitted by Cities, this Ministry has started the process to set the standards for the Smart Cities in India. 16 key features have been outlined, which form the guiding framework for the development of Smart Cities in India. Cities have used this framework to determine their pathway towards ‘smartness’ in their SPVs. The framework includes criteria for Smart City features, induction and the benchmarks. Importantly, there are four stages defined in the pathway of Cities towards smartness. Starting with the baseline condition the Smart Cities will progress through the following stages -

• Level 1 – Base case where service levels are less than 50% of the prescribed benchmark
• Level 2 – Service levels are more than 50% of the prescribed benchmark
• Level 3 – Service levels are more than 75% of the prescribed benchmark
• Level 4 – Advanced stage where prescribed benchmark has been achieved

Co-creation of ideas, strategies, innovative and frugal solutions through an extensive consultative process with all stakeholders is mandated in the Smart Cities Mission Guidelines. Therefore, to finalize the standards for Smart Cities, this Ministry has decided to invite suggestions on the draft Standards. Citizen from all walks of life are welcome to be a part of the consultative process and provide valuable inputs. The last date of submission of suggestions is 20th December 2016.

Click here to read the Draft Standards for Smart Cities.