New Delhi

TheUnion Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) has identified 50 model cities under the PRAGATI-50 initiative for demonstrating a higher benchmark of ‘Swachhata’ through targeted, KPI-based action and by leveraging intensive and technology-enabled monitoring within the framework of Swachh Bharat Mission–Urban 2.0.

Union Housing and Urban Affairs Minister Manohar Lal, at the launch, stated, “These 50 cities across 24 states will emerge as clean role‑model cities for the rest of the country, by going beyond their routine sanitation work to demonstrate sustained, high-performance parameters of visible cleanliness. We have ensured the inclusion of major cities, cities of cultural importance, high tourism destinations and economic centres.

The initiative aims to drive visible improvements in urban cleanliness, solid waste management, used water management, sanitation, and citizen participation through a structured framework of monitoring and review within a defined timeframe. Progress will be continuously reviewed through outcome‑based assessments and tech‑enabled monitoring. I will personally chair review meetings every other month to track the advancement of these cities.”

Minister of State for Housing and Urban Affairs Tokhan Sahu noted that over the past decade, Swachhata has evolved from a people’s movement into a way of life. He said the new model cities initiative would assist cities in achieving the goal of Garbage Free Cities within a stipulated timeframe and help them become role models for other urban centres. He urged States and Urban Local Bodies to prepare micro-level action plans and ensure their swift and effective implementation.

Highlighting the role of youth and technology, Sahu remarked that India has become the world’s third-largest startup ecosystem. He noted that the launch of the third cohort in collaboration with IIT Kanpur marks the achievement of the national target of onboarding and incubating 75 startups under the Mission.

Satendra Singh, Secretary of the Department of Urban Development, MoHUA, emphasised that efforts will focus on enhancing citizen experience and holistic service delivery.