“Clean India Green India” is more than a slogan—it is a national movement aimed at fostering environmental sustainability, sanitation, and urban innovation. This article explores how India’s Smart Cities Mission is accelerating the goals of a cleaner and greener nation through renewable energy, solar infrastructure, waste management, and sustainable urban planning. We link these efforts to India’s commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), and SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities).
The Concept of Clean India Green India – A Vision for Sustainable Development & SDG’s Goals
The “Clean India Green India” campaign is rooted in the broader Swachh Bharat Abhiyan and aligns with India’s vision of becoming an environmentally responsible and energy-efficient nation. From smart waste segregation to solar-powered street lighting, Indian cities are evolving rapidly to reduce carbon footprints and improve citizens’ quality of life.
Origin and Goals :
The idea of “Clean India Green India” is more than just a slogan—it represents a powerful national vision that links cleanliness, sustainability, and environmental health. The concept gained momentum as part of India’s broader commitment to inclusive development and ecological balance. Though rooted in age-old Indian cultural values of cleanliness and nature worship, the modern articulation of “Clean India Green India” emerged prominently in the 21st century alongside national campaigns aimed at societal transformation.
At its core, this initiative aims to create a cleaner, healthier, and more environmentally conscious India.
Its primary goals include:
- Eliminating open defecation and promoting sanitation.
- Encouraging responsible waste management and recycling.
- Increasing green cover through plantation or afforestation and urban greening.
- Raising public awareness about sustainable living.
- Building eco-friendly infrastructure in cities and villages alike.
The ultimate objective is to develop a civic ecosystem where cleanliness and environmental care are not just duties, but a way of life for every citizen.
Relation to Swachh Bharat Mission
on October 2, 2014, Honourable Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi launched “ Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM)” laid the foundation for the Clean India movement. The mission sought to transform sanitation habits and hygiene practices across rural and urban India, particularly aiming to make the country open defecation-free (ODF).
“Clean India Green India” builds on the success of SBM but adds an important ecological dimension. While SBM focused on sanitation and hygiene, Clean India Green India integrates this with climate-sensitive practices such as:
- Promoting green energy and reducing carbon footprints.
- Plantation drives to absorb carbon dioxide.
- Eco-friendly solid waste disposal and composting.
- Plastic-free public spaces.
In essence, Clean India Green India is a natural evolution of the Swachh Bharat Mission, widening its focus from hygiene alone to holistic environmental well-being.
Link to Climate Action and Sustainability
Clean India Green India is directly connected to global and national climate action goals. India is one of the signatories to the Paris Agreement and is actively working toward its Net Zero 2070 target. This initiative plays a vital role in that journey by fostering sustainable community behaviors and green infrastructure.
Here’s how it aligns with climate action and sustainability:
- Waste to Energy: Promoting biogas and waste-to-energy plants reduces landfill emissions and promotes renewable energy.
- Afforestation: Tree plantation programs under the campaign help sequester atmospheric CO₂.
- Sustainable Urban Development: Integration with Smart Cities and urban sustainability projects enhances energy efficiency, reduces pollution, and boosts resilience to climate change.
- Circular Economy: Clean India Green India encourages reusing, recycling, and reducing resource consumption—key principles of sustainability.
By connecting grassroots cleanliness drives with global environmental objectives, this initiative ensures that local action contributes to global impact. It’s a vision where each citizen becomes a climate warrior, contributing to a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable India.
Smart Cities flagship initiative & Clean India Green India Mission
The Smart Cities Mission is a flagship initiative by the Government of India to promote sustainable urban development. Launched in June 2015. Through the integration of advanced technologies like ICT, intelligent traffic systems, automated waste collection, and green building norms, smart cities are turning into powerful agents of the Clean India, Green India mission. This article explores the mission’s framework, its tech-driven infrastructure, real-world examples, and how it aligns with global sustainability goals like the SDGs.
Smart Cities Mission: Building Future-Ready Urban India
The Smart Cities Mission (SCM) aims to improve the quality of life in 100 Indian cities by making them as a smart or sustainable city . The core idea is to make cities:
- Citizen-friendly,
- Sustainable, and
- Technologically integrated.
Each selected city implements area-based development (ABD) and pan-city initiatives to solve pressing urban challenges using smart solutions.
Key Objectives:
- Enhance urban mobility and public transport
- Promote renewable energy and clean environment
- Improve water and waste management systems
- Ensure safety, security, and e-governance
ICT Integration in Urban Infrastructure
Information and Communication Technology-ICT is the backbone of every smart city . ICT is used not just for connectivity but also for real-time monitoring, predictive analysis, and digital governance.
How ICT is Changing Cities ?
Command & Control Centres: Monitor traffic, air pollution, water supply, etc.
- Digital grievance redressal: Citizens can report issues through apps.
- Smart utility services: Track electricity, water usage, and leakages.
- Urban analytics dashboards: Enable better decision-making.
Examples of Smart Technologies in Practice
✅ A. Automated Waste Collection Systems
Cities like Indore and Bhopal have deployed GPS-enabled waste collection vehicles and smart bins.
- Sensor-based alerts for timely waste pickup
- Smart segregation to promote recycling
Impact:
✔ Cleaner streets
✔ Reduced manual intervention
✔ Higher public hygiene standards
✅ B. Intelligent Traffic Management Systems
Cities like Pune and Surat have adopted intelligent traffic technologies:
- Adaptive traffic lights reduce congestion
- AI-based vehicle tracking systems
- Real-time traffic updates through mobile apps
Impact:
✔ Reduced carbon emissions
✔ Improved emergency response
✔ Safer roads
✅ C. Green Building Norms & Energy-Efficient Design
Smart cities mandate eco-friendly construction:
- Use of solar panels, energy-efficient lighting, and low-VOC materials
- Rainwater harvesting, natural ventilation, and green roofs
- Mandatory compliance with GRIHA/IGBC norms
Impact:
✔ Lower urban heat
✔ Reduced resource consumption
✔ Better living conditions
Case Studies: Indian Smart Cities Leading the Way
a. Indore – The Cleanest City of India
- Fully digitized waste collection system
- Underground bins and waste-to-energy plant
- Ranked No.1 in Swachh Survekshan for 8 consecutive years
b. Bhubaneswar –Best Smart City Challenge Winner in Eastern Region
- Intelligent traffic systems and smart parking
- ICT-based education and health platforms
- Green zones and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure
c. Surat – Flood-resilient Smart City
- Early warning systems using AI
- Green infrastructure along riverfront
- Smart sewage management
How Smart Cities Align with SDG Goals ?
Smart cities are not isolated projects. They are strategically aligned with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
| SDG Goal | Smart City Contribution |
| SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation | Smart water meters, sewage sensors |
| SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy | Rooftop solar projects, LED street lighting |
| SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities | Green building norms, e-mobility to develop sustainable Cities and communities . |
| SDG 13: Climate Action | Pollution sensors, carbon footprint monitoring |
| SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure | ICT innovation hubs, digital infrastructure |
Data Table: Renewable Energy in Indian Smart Cities
| City | Renewable Energy Initiatives | Type |
| Jaipur | 20+ MW rooftop solar panels on government buildings | Solar |
| Pune | Waste-to-energy plant generating 10MW | Bioenergy |
| Bhopal | Renewable Energy initiative steps adopted by Bhopal and developed LED public lighting and solar bus stops | Solar & Smart Grid |
| Varanasi | Solar-powered ghats and smart cremation infrastructure | Solar |
| Coimbatore | Smart water pumping stations using solar panels | Solar |
Smart Cities and Their Support or Contribution to Clean India Green India
Smart Cities aren’t just technological hubs. They are:
- Pilots of sustainable living
- Champions of green infrastructure
- Catalysts for cleaner air, Green city , sustainable city , safer streets, and better governance
Aligned with SDGs goals , Swachh Bharat Abhiyan (Clean India) and National Action Plan on Climate Change (Green India).
Conclusion: Smart Cities Paving the Way to a Greener Future
Smart Cities represent more than just urban modernization—they symbolize India’s commitment to a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable future. Through cutting-edge ICT integration, eco-conscious urban planning, and people-first policies, they are vital to the Clean India Green India mission.
With smart technologies like automated waste collection, intelligent traffic management, and green building mandates, India is not only reshaping its cities but also setting global examples in urban sustainability.
How Indian Cities Are Going Green ?
- Adoption of renewable energy and solar rooftops
- Urban forests and green belts
- Promotion of public transportation and electric vehicles
Renewable Energy in Smart Cities :
- Solar energy as the backbone of urban energy systems
- Solar parks, smart grids, and energy storage
- Role of private and public investment in renewable infrastructure
Solar Energy Adoption in Top 10 Smart Cities (2024) : Data Table
| City | Installed Solar Capacity (MW) | % of Energy Needs from Solar |
| Indore | 105 | 45% |
| Bhopal | 90 | 38% |
| Pune | 120 | 50% |
| Surat | 95 | 40% |
| Ahmedabad | 110 | 42% |
| Coimbatore | 80 | 35% |
| Chandigarh | 75 | 30% |
| Jaipur | 100 | 41% |
| Vishakhapatnam | 85 | 37% |
| Varanasi | 70 | 33% |
Connecting the Mission to SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals)
Clean India Green India Mission vs SDG Goals : Data Table
| SDG Goal | Clean India Green India Contribution |
| SDG 6 – Clean Water & Sanitation | Public toilet construction, sewer treatment plants |
| SDG 7 – Clean Energy | Solar rooftops, biogas plants, green building certifications |
| SDG 11 – Sustainable Cities | Smart traffic, pedestrian walkways, green zones |
| SDG 13 – Climate Action | Carbon reduction, afforestation, energy-efficient lighting |
Role of SDG Grants and International Support
- UNDP, World Bank, and ADB funding mechanisms
- SDG-aligned grants for urban infrastructure and sanitation
- Examples of funded Indian projects
Smart City Awards and Recognition
Data Table 3: Best Smart City Awards in India
| Year | City | State | Highlights of Achievement |
| 2023 | Indore | Madhya Pradesh | Smart waste management, cleanest city award |
| 2024 | Surat | Gujarat | Water recycling, solar energy integration |
| 2025 | Chandigarh | Chandigarh | Urban forests, zero-waste model, community participation |
Conclusion
The synergy between the Clean India Green India initiative and the Smart Cities Mission represents a transformative journey for India’s urban landscape. With active integration of renewable energy, green infrastructure, and digital technologies, Indian cities are becoming more livable, inclusive, and climate-resilient. Continued investment, policy support, and citizen participation will be key in sustaining this momentum.
Summary
- Clean India Green India aligns with Swachh Bharat and Smart Cities Missions.
- Renewable energy, especially solar, is crucial for sustainable urban living.
- Smart cities like Indore, Surat, and Chandigarh are leading the way.
- SDG-aligned projects and international grants boost mission outcomes.
Top 15 FAQs on Clean India Green India
- What is Clean India Green India mission?
It is a national campaign promoting sanitation, green energy, and sustainable urban development in India. - How is it linked to the Smart City Mission?
Smart cities implement green infrastructure, renewable energy, and digital governance aligned with the mission. - Which are the top smart cities supporting this mission?
Indore, Surat, Chandigarh, Pune, and Bhopal are key contributors. - What role does solar energy play in Clean India Green India?
It powers street lighting, homes, public buildings, and water pumps, reducing fossil fuel dependency. - How does this mission support SDG goals?
It contributes to SDGs 6, 7, 11, and 13 through sanitation, clean energy, and sustainable infrastructure. - What are some renewable energy projects in smart cities?
Solar rooftop projects, biogas plants, and smart grid installations. - Who funds these smart and green city projects?
Government of India, World Bank, UNDP, ADB, and private sector partnerships. - How are citizens involved in this mission?
Through awareness drives, waste segregation, tree planting, and energy conservation.
Top FAQs on Clean India Green India
- What is concept of the Smart City Awards?
They recognize cities implementing innovative, eco-friendly, and citizen-focused projects. - How can rural areas be included in Clean India Green India?
By integrating solar energy, proper sanitation, and eco-friendly waste disposal techniques. - What is the role of technology in the Smart City project or mission ?
IoT, GIS mapping, AI-driven waste tracking, and smart meters improve efficiency. - What challenges do Indian cities face?
Waste mismanagement, water pollution, and lack of green cover. - How are these challenges being addressed?
By policies like single-use plastic bans, clean water initiatives, and urban reforestation. - What is the impact of Clean India Green India on climate change?
Decrease greenhouse gas emissions. Increases carbon sinks and improves resilience. - What can individuals do to support the mission?
Reduce plastic use, conserve water, use renewable energy, and participate in green drives.
✅ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) :Smart City , Sustainable Development & SDG’s Goals
Q1. Can smaller towns become smart cities?
Yes, through scalable ICT solutions and integrated urban development planning.
Q2. Are smart cities aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals or SDGs?
Yes, they support goals like sustainable cities (SDG 11), clean energy (SDG 7), and climate action (SDG 13).
Q3. Which smart city is best in waste management and cleanest city in India?
Indore has been recognized as India’s cleanest city for its advanced waste management system.
Q4. What is a green building?
A green building uses resources efficiently, minimizes waste, and promotes environmental health.
Q5. What is the role of intelligent traffic systems?
They reduce congestion, minimize emissions, and enhance road safety using AI and data analytics.
Q6. How are smart cities powered?
Many use renewable energy sources like solar, bioenergy, and wind to power infrastructure.
Q7. Which Indian cities are implementing smart energy solutions?
Pune, Jaipur, Coimbatore, and Varanasi are using solar and smart grid technologies extensively.
Q8. What is a Command and Control Centre?
A digital hub for managing city services like traffic, waste, water, and emergency response.
Q9. How do smart cities promote public participation?
Through mobile apps, citizen portals, and digital grievance redressal platforms.
Q10. What is the connection between Smart Cities and Clean India Mission?
Smart cities implement Swachh Bharat goals through smart sanitation, solid waste, and cleanliness monitoring.
References:
- Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (India) – Smart Cities Mission Reports 2023–2025 Smart Cities Mission
- NITI Aayog – SDG India Index
- MNRE – Solar Energy Progress Reports
- The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI) – Green Cities and Clean Energy
- Swachh Bharat Mission Urban – Annual Progress Report
- World Bank India – Clean Energy & Urban Infrastructure Projects
- United Nations SDGs – Sustainable Development Goals
- Swachh Bharat Mission Urban Portal – SBM Urban
- GRIHA Council – Green Rating for Integrated Habitat Assessment
- IGBC – Indian Green Building Council
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