Implementation of smart city project not smart: Premji

“It is unfortunate that the smart city project got lot of attention from Prime Minister Narendra Modi but its implementation has been shallow,” said Premji at a function to celebrate the company’s 2016 earthian programme awards here. 

Observing that there was more talk than action, Premji said the software major was, however, providing IT and lighting solutions to the project wherever it was being implemented. 

As one of the Modi government’s flagship programmes, launched in June 2015, the smart city project is aimed at providing world-class infrastructure and ICT solutions in 109 cities across the country. “There is a need for a well-rounded approach to get the project moving as there is little action on the ground,” said the IT czar. 

The company’s annual programme provides a platform for students to learn about sustainability in the education process at schools and colleges in the country and acts as a catalyst to foster excellence in thinking and action among the youth. 

Presenting the awards to the winners of the sixth edition of the programme, the IT czar advocated for greater use of alternative energy like hydro and green than coal to protect the environment and prevent climate change. “More green energy should be used instead of coal. So also hydro in a scientific manner and not at the cost of environment,” asserted Premji.