The Smart Cities Mission was launched in 2015, the same year as the New Urban Agenda adopted by the world community. One of the flagship ‘missions’ of the Indian government, it has stimulated renewed national and global interest in India’s urbanisation while also drawing criticism for its technological ambitions and seemingly slow progress. Shah will present the argument that, at its core, the smart city agenda is an innovative intervention strategy for making 100 exemplary cities ‘smart’ by disrupting the business-as-usual manner of planning, funding and governing that has become entrenched since the 1960’s, producing significant shortages in infrastructure and services. Using data as well as participant observations gathered at the frontline of the Mission, Shah will discuss the anticipated impact of the ‘smart cities’ in the context of India’s urbanisation trajectories and ways that India’s experience can inform the global narrative on sustainable development.
Jagan Shah (@JaganShah) is Director of the National Institute of Urban Affairs in India.
Ricky Burdett (@BURDETTR) is Professor of Urban Studies at LSE and Director of the Urban Age and LSE Cities.
LSE Cities (@LSECities) is an international centre carrying out research, education and outreach in the urban field. This event falls under the centre's research into Urban Governance. Jagan Shah will also deliver a guest session on the Executive MSc in Cities.
Twitter Hashtag for this event: #LSEJaganShah
LSE holds a wide range of events, covering many of the most controversial issues of the day, and speakers at our events may express views that cause offence. The views expressed by speakers at LSE events do not reflect the position or views of The London School of Economics and Political Science.
From time to time there are changes to event details so we strongly recommend checking back on this listing on the day of the event if you plan to attend. Whilst we are hosting this listing, LSE Events does not take responsibility for the running and administration of this event. While we take responsible measures to ensure that accurate information is given here (for instance by checking the room has been booked) this event is ultimately the responsibility of the organisation presenting the event.