The central government informed the Lok Sabha that it had disbursed ₹47,225 crore to states and union territories under the Smart Cities Mission as of November 15, 2024. Out of the total funds released, ₹44,626 crore, which accounts for 94 per cent, has been utilised. In a written response, Minister of State for Housing and Urban Affairs, Tokhan Sahu, revealed that work orders for 8,066 projects worth ₹1,64,669 crore had been issued as of mid-November. Of these, 7,352 projects, representing 91 per cent of the total, amounting to ₹1,47,366 crore, have been successfully completed under the mission.

Monitoring and oversight

Sahu emphasised the robust monitoring framework of the Smart Cities Mission. At the state level, the mission's progress is overseen by a high-powered steering committee chaired by the state’s chief secretary. At the national level, an apex committee led by the secretary of the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs ensures efficient implementation.

Mission timeline and budget

The Smart Cities Mission, launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on June 15, 2015, has been extended to March 31, 2025, to allow the completion of ongoing projects. The mission has a total central government outlay of ₹48,000 crore for 100 cities. As of November 15, 2024, ₹47,225 crore has been released, demonstrating the government’s commitment to urban transformation.