The “Vision Viksit Bharat@2047: Digital Public Infrastructure for Smart Cities” seminar held on 15th February 2025 brought together policymakers, researchers, and industry experts to chart a roadmap for India’s urban future. The seminar’s core focus was on leveraging digital public infrastructure to transform urban governance and services in the lead-up to 2047, when India aspires to be a developed nation.

Key themes addressed included the implementation of smart city technologies, sustainable urban development, effective waste management through circular economy models, and AI-driven governance mechanisms.

Experts underscored the importance of blending technology with inclusive policies to ensure that smart cities remain sustainable and citizen-centric. The seminar highlighted key priorities for smart city development, including strengthening digital infrastructure, real-time monitoring through ICCCs, and the adoption of open data platforms and APIs for improved service delivery. Emphasis was placed on tech-enabled solutions like AI, data analytics, and DPI to enhance city management and logistics, along with better smart waste management through policies like Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR). It also stressed participative governance, social media engagement, PPP-led innovation (e.g., PCMC’s E-Classroom), and the need for a national framework on smart city data and AI ethics. Promoting sustainability through green infrastructure and measurable indicators, along with training programs and embedded research support, were key takeaways.

Distinguished speakers included:

• Ms. S. Kiriwandeniya, Chief Guest and Director, SANASA, Sri Lanka
• Mr. Binod Anand, Policy Strategist and Member of National Committees
• Mr. Nilkanth Poman, Chief Information & Technology Officer, PCMC 
• Ms. Chitra Panwar, Company Secretary, PCSCL

Brief about Seminar

• 34 Researchers presented papers
• Selected the 3 best papers