City Advancement through Smart Citizenship

This paper analyses the parameters of a smart city in India and is based on the thought process that the genesis of a smart city is from smart citizenship. The word ‘smart’ cannot be defined in fixed terms. However, a city is defined by its people and their progressive nature, activities and conduct. Thus, the smartness, or progressiveness of a city is directly in proportion to its responsiveness and willingness of the citizens. This paper tries to bring forth a different perspective to the smart city debate and its parameters. Smart cities should be built together with smart citizens. The evolution of a citizen from being a recipient of services to a participatory member in decision making is important for the development in the right direction. A smart city can only conceptualize when its residents are aware and comprehend the advantages at their disposal. The sustainability of the city solely depends on the uses of its resources and its components, into bringing the betterment of the society.