Murmu emphasises the need for green buildings and renewables for energy efficiency in cities
The President of India, Droupadi Murmu, says more than 50% of Indian people would be living in urban areas by the year 2047, contributing more than 80% of the of cities to GDP.
“We have to make a roadmap for the future and move forward on it – keeping in mind the growing aspirations and needs of the cities and their residents,” she told the India Smart Cities Conclave 2023 at Indore on 27 Sept 2023.
The President said that an important issue which is part of every discussion on sustainable development at every level is climate change.
In this context, the Climate Smart Cities Assessment Framework, which was launched for India’s 100 smart cities, is an example of how cities can address climate change at the national level.
She added that emphasis is being laid on green buildings and renewable energy for energy efficiency in cities, but there is a need to work on a more comprehensive level in these areas.
The President said, “We have to achieve our objectives by moving towards Sustainable Development Goals. The goal of SDG 11 is to make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable.
“This goal underlines the importance of holistic and inclusive development of cities.”
She also pointed out that the management of cities has an important role in pursuing the priority of sustainable development.
“Therefore, we should learn from the best practices and business models of the world’s best-managed cities and also share our successful efforts with other countries.”
She added that collaboration at local and global level is essential for overall and sustainable development.
The President said, “We have to develop safe, clean, healthy neighbourhoods across the country.
“People must become responsible and understand their duty towards their city and residents.”
The President stressed on the need for health services, educational institutions and basic facilities like cities in rural areas too, and elaborated that it would reduce the pressure on the cities’ infrastructure and improve the living condition of the rural people. Fiinews.com
