Indore, Sep 27 (UNI) Emphasising that a higher quantum of effort is required towards enhancing urban security for womenfolk, President Droupadi Murmu averred on Wednesday that in order to have safer neighbourhoods in all cities it is imperative that citizens realise their collective responsibilities.


Addressing the India Smart Cities Conclave 2023 in Madhya Pradesh’s commercial capital, the First Citizen said, “Security of women, children and the aged is paramount. Integrated Command and Control Centres have been rendered operational within 100 smart cities and are performing yeoman service towards firming up the law and order situation.”
The President stressed on betterment of health services in rural areas in order to achieve the twin objectives of easing pressure on urban healthcare institutions and making villagers’ existence smooth.
“I urge mayors and municipal commissioners to advance with fresh energy and enthusiasm during Amrit Kaal, which is nothing short of kartavya kaal for every citizen. Proactive participation by people is the need of the hour for combating maladies such as dengue,” she observed.
Highlighting the crucial issue of climate change, the visiting dignitary said more comprehensive work is required on ‘green’ buildings and renewable energy in order to make cities inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable.
"Viable developed models should be a priority area. By 2047, the urban population is projected to exceed the 87-crore figure. A roadmap is needed, bearing expectations in mind. The G20 New Delhi Summit was an emphatic success, and Urban20 is an integral part of it. We should learn from the business models of foreign cities and share our experience with them. It is heartening that land reclamation is being undertaken in cities and public places are being developed on riverbanks,” Murmu said.
The President presented the National Smart City Awards to Indore, Surat, and Agra. The ISAC Awards 2022 were bestowed on Ahmedabad, Chandigarh, Coimbatore, Hubli-Dharwad, Indore, Jabalpur, Vadodara, Bhubaneswar, Ranchi, Udaipur, Varanasi, Belagavi, Solapur, Kohima, Namchi, Madhya Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh.
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