Experts recommend tier-2 cities for SCM phase 2

09 Feb 2024 CW Team

A panel of experts has recommended that the second phase of India's Smart Cities Mission should prioritise Tier-2 cities located in close proximity to state capitals and tourist destinations. Emphasising the need for inclusive urban development, the panel underscored the potential of these cities to serve as hubs of economic growth and innovation. By directing attention to these urban centres, the panel aims to address infrastructure challenges while leveraging their strategic locations to enhance connectivity and accessibility.

According to the panel, focusing on Tier-2 cities near state capitals could foster better integration with the overall state development agenda, facilitating seamless coordination between urban and regional planning efforts. Moreover, investing in these cities aligns with the government's vision of decentralising economic activities and promoting balanced regional growth across the country.

Furthermore, the recommendation to prioritise tourist cities reflects the importance of catering to the unique needs of these destinations, which experience fluctuations in population density due to tourism influxes. Enhancing infrastructure and services in these areas not only improves the quality of life for residents but also enhances the overall tourist experience, contributing to the growth of the hospitality and tourism sectors.

The panel's suggestions align with the broader objective of the Smart Cities Mission to create sustainable, citizen-centric urban environments equipped with modern amenities and efficient infrastructure. By directing resources towards Tier-2 cities near state capitals and tourist destinations, the mission can catalyse comprehensive urban development while ensuring that smaller cities play a significant role in India's journey towards becoming a more developed and inclusive nation.

Products

06 Oct 2025

TOTO India Launches Premium G & L Showers with Sleek Faucet Range

TOTO India has launched its G Shower and L Shower series, alongside an expanded range of GT, LH, and Pull-Out lavatory faucets. The collection blends advanced technology, refined aesthetics, and everyday comfort, staying true to TOTO’s philosophy of creating spaces that are both beautiful and functional. The G Shower series delivers the 3Rs of showering: Relaxing, Refreshing, and Revitalizing. Features include the Calming Shawl spray mode, Warm Spa technology, and multiple overhead and hand-shower options across eight finishes. The L Shower complements this with easy-to-use controls sui..

Hero Future Energies Secures Funding for 120 MW Hybrid Project

Hero Future Energies (HFE), through its SPV Clean Renewable Energy Hybrid Three, has secured Rs 19.08 billion in funding from the State Bank of India (lead) and Canara Bank. The funds will be used to develop and construct HFE’s 120 MW renewable energy hybrid project at Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh. The project, contracted with SJVN, integrates wind, solar, and storage technologies to deliver reliable peak power. With a 21-year repayment period, the funding ensures timely execution and the commencement of commercial operations. The financial closure demonstrates continued lender confidence in..

IOC GPS Renewables Raises Rs 8.36 billion Debt for Compressed Biogas Plants

IOC GPS Renewables Private Limited (IGRPL), a joint venture between IndianOil Corporation and GPS Renewables, has raised Rs 8.36 billion (approx. US$ 95 million) in debt financing from Indian Bank to execute nine Compressed Biogas (CBG) projects across India. The funding is the largest single-bank debt raise in the CBG sector and the first fully non-recourse financing in India for these projects. The plants—four in Haryana, three in Uttar Pradesh, one each in Chhattisgarh and Andhra Pradesh—will each produce 15 tonnes of CBG per day using paddy straw as feedstock. All nin..