Future of Smart cities and National Smart Cities Mission, India

Purpose- This paper problematizes the dominance of market- based approach to urban development that primarily relies on public- private partnerships (PPP) as a public policy tool. It analyzes the inadequacies and limitations of PPP in delivering sustainable development. Design/ Methodology- A qualitative analysis based on a combination of Hermeneutics and Doctrinal Research Methodology, this paper systematically evaluates the National Smart Cities Mission (2016), Government of India in the backdrop of the Sustainable Development Goals, United Nations. The theoretical framework of the limitations of public- private partnerships is used to critically analyze the inadequacies of the policy initiative. Findings- The findings indicate that the some of the limitations of the PPP model are ultra vires with the core objectives of sustainable development goals. Goal 11- Sustainable cities and communities Goal 16- Peace, justice and strong institutions Research Limitations- Democracy forms the cornerstone of the present analysis. This paper analyzes the efficacy of PPP model in achieving sustainable development within the broad socio- political framework of democracy. For other modes of public systems management, the same limitations may not be relevant. Practical Implications- This paper is aimed to assist policy makers and government instrumentalities in involving other stakeholders like citizens over and above the private corporations in preparing master plans and to synthesize proposals for cities smarter growth. Social Implications: The debate presented in this paper can facilitate policy initiatives aimed at reducing inequalities within and between countries; which is yet another important goal of sustainable development. Originality- The normative contribution of this paper lies in reviewing the need to include citizens in the PPPs. Presently in India; PPP has been narrowed to only include corporate developers. PPPs can also include the citizens who are the beneficiaries; to improve the quality of life of the citizens and strengthen their relationship with the cities they inhabit.