In Order to promote competition among Smart Cities and measure the quality and impact of projects undertaken under the flagship programme, the housing and urban affairs ministry has launched Smart Cities Awards Contest, 2017, with a total prize money of over Rs 50 lakh.

According to the minisyrt, the contest was aimed at recognising and rewarding cities, projects and innovative ideas that promote the goals of the mission.

“The evaluation criteria will include impact, innovation and scalability/replicability in other areas of the city,” an official said.

All projects completed by April 1, 2018, will be eligible for participation.

The awards will be presented on June 25 next year, marking the third anniversary of the launch of the mission. “Excellence will be recognised and awarded in areas such as improving governance, quality of built environment, social infrastructure, culture and economy, environment, transportation, mobility and water and sanitation,” a ministry spokesman said.