In a significant gathering of leaders and experts, President Droupadi Murmu graced the India Smart Cities Conclave 2023 held in Madhya Pradesh’s Indore district today.
Addressing the audience, President Murmu discussed the pivotal role cities will play in India’s future. She cited projections that indicate more than 50 percent of the population will reside in urban areas by 2047, with cities contributing over 80 percent to the GDP. In response, she urged the need to chart a clear roadmap for urban development, mindful of the evolving aspirations and requirements of city dwellers.
Climate change emerged as a central theme in the discussion on sustainable development. President Murmu lauded the Climate Smart Cities Assessment Framework launched for India’s 100 smart cities as a national-level initiative to combat climate change. She underscored the importance of green buildings and renewable energy for enhancing urban energy efficiency, emphasising the necessity for comprehensive efforts in these domains.
Highlighting the alignment with Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), particularly SDG 11, President Murmu stressed the importance of inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable urban development. She called for learning from the world’s best-managed cities, sharing successful practices, and fostering collaboration at local and global levels.
President Murmu urged citizens to take responsibility for their cities, promoting safe, clean, and healthy neighbourhoods across the nation. She also stressed the proactive involvement of the public and cooperation from relevant authorities in preventing diseases like dengue and malaria in urban areas.
Furthermore, the President emphasised the necessity of extending health services, educational institutions, and basic facilities to rural areas, alleviating the strain on urban infrastructure and enhancing the living conditions of rural communities.
Governor of Madhya Pradesh Mangubhai Patel and Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan welcomed President Murmu at the Indore airport, extending a warm reception as she arrived in the city. The India Smart Cities Conclave 2023 serves as a critical forum for discussions on India’s urban future and strategies to achieve sustainable urban development in the coming decades.
