Vietnam’s Wireless Development: 6G Technology, Broadband Satellite

Vietnam’s Deputy Minister of Information and Communications, Pham Duc Long, highlighted the country’s recent focus on developing digital infrastructure, including significant investments in data centres and cloud computing. These efforts are aimed at driving national digital transformation and enabling the delivery of digital services to advance the digital economy and society.

At the 31^st meeting of the Asia Pacific Telecommunity (APT) Wireless Group in Hanoi, Long emphasised that the world is currently confronted with a range of complex issues in the era of wireless devices. APT, in response, is committed to collaborating with member countries to address these problems and effectively overcome the associated challenges.

During the discussions, participants delved into various significant management-related topics. These included potential frequency bands for 6G technology, the effective management of broadband satellite beams, expanding wireless internet coverage through band extensions, and the advancements and implications of 5G technology.

The event serves as a forum for management agencies, organisations, and businesses in the fields of frequency and wireless to discuss and update research activities in the region and around the world. Among the topics discussed, Vietnam is particularly interested in the implementation of new technologies, frequency planning, and trends in the selection of appropriate bands and technologies.

The meeting was held in a hybrid format. The event saw the participation of more than 500 delegates who are leading experts in the field of wireless in the region and the world from member countries, corporations, and large domestic and international telecom enterprises.

In April, the Ministry of Information and Communications (MIC) announced an auction for frequencies in the 2300-2400 MHz waveband, which will enable network operators to advance their 4G and 5G technologies. The starting price for this waveband was VND 12.88 billion (US$ 548,481) per MHz per annum, and each company had the opportunity to bid for 30 MHz. The companies are allowed to use the wavebands for 15 years for 4G and 5G purposes.

Both mobile service providers and other telecommunication companies were able to participate in the auction if they met the requirements. This means that new players using 4G and 5G technologies entered the mobile market. Companies that do not currently possess licenses for telecom services were also permitted to submit applications to the MIC for consideration and evaluation of their eligibility to participate in the auction.

As OpenGov Asia reported, upon successfully winning the auction and paying the fees in full and on time, the businesses were awarded licenses to use frequencies and offer telecommunication services. Companies that participated in the auction for the right to use radio frequencies in the 2300-2400 MHz waveband were able to establish networks and provide telecommunication services that use IMT-Advanced (4G) or IMT-2020 (5G) technologies.

5G technology offers several benefits that can transform communication, work, and life overall. With its faster data transmission speeds, lower latency, and higher network capacity, 5G can provide seamless connectivity for a wide range of applications, from virtual and augmented reality to autonomous vehicles and smart cities. Digital infrastructure is among the government’s top priorities. Vietnam has set a target to be among the top 30 nations with the most advanced and robust digital infrastructure by 2025. Vietnam’s next wave of socio-economic development will come from innovation, science, and technology, driven by the digital economy.

Singapore Integrating Digital Trade and Sustainability

Minister for Trade and Industry Gan Kim Yong recently participated in the APEC Ministers Responsible for Trade (MRT) Meeting in Detroit, Michigan. With the theme “Creating a Resilient and Sustainable Future for All,” the APEC MRT meeting was hosted by the U.S., APEC 2023 Chair, and was attended by Trade Ministers and Senior Officials from the 21 APEC economies.

Minister Gan made three suggestions to ensure that the World Trade Organisation (WTO) responds more effectively to the challenges nowadays. First, restoring a fully functioning and effective Dispute Settlement System. Second, updating the WTO’s rulebook to address emerging issues on digital trade and environmental sustainability. Third, improving the WTO’s decision-making process.

In today’s interconnected world, digital trade is critical for facilitating frictionless transactions, improving market access, and supporting economic progress. It increases efficiency, creativity, and global connectivity while decreasing barriers and expenses while environmental sustainability is critical for protecting the planet’s resources and combating climate change.

Hence, countries can achieve a healthy balance between economic development and environmental stewardship by integrating digital trade and environmental sustainability, assuring a profitable and sustainable future for future generations.

In addition, Minister Gan spoke on Singapore’s commitment to transition to a green economy. He highlighted that Singapore remained steadfast in securing greener sources of energy, investing in new technologies, strengthening businesses’ capabilities, and upskilling the workforce. The Minister added that Singapore would continue to look towards new trade architectures, such as Green Economy Agreements, to harness green growth opportunities for the people.

One year, after Leaders launched the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity (IPEF) in May 2022, Ministers from the 14 IPEF partner countries, announced the substantial conclusion of negotiations on an IPEF Supply Chain Agreement.

This is the first multi-country arrangement to strengthen the resilience and connectivity of supply chains through collective and individual actions. Three coordination bodies will be established to advance cooperation among IPEF countries:

A Supply Chain Council that will develop sector-specific action plans to strengthen resilience in critical sectors and key goods;
A Crisis Response Network to facilitate emergency communications and coordination between governments during supply chain disruptions; and
A tripartite Labour Rights Advisory Board that will help promote labour rights in IPEF countries’ supply chains.

The Ministers also introduced a regional hydrogen initiative to encourage the widespread deployment of low-carbon and renewable hydrogen and its derivatives in the Indo-Pacific region, by drawing upon expertise from both the public and private sectors.

According to Minister Gan, Singapore joins other IPEF partners in welcoming an innovative Supply Chain Agreement that will enhance the individual and collective efforts to strengthen the resilience and connectivity of the supply chains.

This will also put the nation in a stronger place to anticipate and respond to any future disruptions to these supply chains. Singapore looks forward to the early operationalisation of the Agreement, as well as further progress being made on the negotiations on the other IPEF pillars. Singapore welcomes the introduction of the hydrogen initiative among interested IPEF partners, to capitalise on the promise of growth in this area and support the respective green economies.

To support these efforts, Minister Gan announced that Singapore will offer capacity-building programmes on topics relevant to each of the four IPEF pillars, such as trade and business development, supply chain management, clean energy and emission reduction, and anti-corruption.

The programmes are organised by Singapore government agencies including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA), Infocomm Media Development Agency (IMDA), Maritime Port Authority (MPA), Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore (IRAS), Tax Academy, and the Corrupt Practices Investigation Bureau (CPIB), as well as with other IPEF partners like Japan.

Da Nang Leads in Digital Transformation and Smart City Development

Da Nang, a central city in Vietnam, stands out as a frontrunner in digital transformation, with a significant proportion of its population embracing electronic accounts on public service portals. 43% of Da Nang’s population aged 18 and above own electronic accounts, indicating a strong presence of digital engagement in the city.

Digital transformation is a collective effort involving various entities, including government agencies, businesses, and residents. In 2022, the digital economy played a significant role in the overall economic landscape of the city, contributing to 17% of Da Nang’s Gross Regional Domestic Product (GRDP).

According to Nguyen Quang Thanh, the Director of the Department of Information and Communications in Da Nang, the city’s digital transformation is inspired by the development of e-government and smart urban areas. He emphasised that data plays a pivotal role in generating new values for the city.

Since 2020, Da Nang has embarked on a comprehensive effort to build a robust database that encompasses various sources of information. Including comprehensive records of citizens, businesses, household registrations, officials, employees, and administrative procedures.

Local authorities and agencies have built 560 public service databases. In addition, free wifi stations are now available in the city. To further enhance connectivity and digital accessibility, the city has established free WiFi stations across various locations. These WiFi stations provide residents and visitors with convenient and reliable internet access, contributing to the city’s digital infrastructure.

Moreover, Da Nang has invested in the Internet of Things (IoT) infrastructure to expand its data sources and capabilities. Key IoT initiatives include the implementation of a security and order centre, a smart traffic centre, and a water and air environment monitoring centre. These facilities collect and analyse data to monitor and manage public safety, traffic flow, and environmental conditions in real-time, enabling more informed decision-making and enhancing the overall quality of life in the city.

According to Thanh, the availability of data has significantly improved the management capabilities of state agencies in Da Nang. The utilisation of data has facilitated more efficient work processes, enhanced the supervision of public service provision, and enabled effective monitoring of traffic flow as well as water and air quality.

In addition to leveraging data, the city has embraced digital assistants to enhance the delivery of administrative procedures and public services. These digital assistants include chatbots and voicebots that automatically provide instructions and guidance to residents regarding administrative processes and various public services.

The Da Nang smart city mobile platform provides more than 30 smart services and utilities for communities. In the city, every citizen is provided with an electronic account, which offers them access to the available database. This system requires citizens to register for an electronic account only once, granting them access to a wide range of digital services and information. As of now, approximately 260,000 citizens in Da Nang have successfully registered for electronic accounts. This number represents over 43% of the population aged 18 and older.

The region has achieved significant progress in digitising document handling processes, with over 78% of documents being handled online, 1.5 times higher than the national average.

The administration of Da Nang has witnessed numerous agencies actively embracing digital technology in their operations and service delivery. The Ngu Hanh Son Medical Centre has introduced a digital health certificate system. This initiative aims to facilitate the process for individuals applying for a driving license by providing them with a digital health certificate.

Meanwhile, the Department of Transport has introduced QR codes for bus tickets, offering commuters an efficient and contactless way to access public transportation. It has also implemented online payment options. The Department of Information and Communications has added rainfall and flood maps to Da Nang Smart City App for residents to access and follow.

Unlocking Opportunities: Malaysia’s Thriving Investment Landscape

Malaysia remains an attractive investment destination, as it attracted a significant amount of RM71.4 billion in approved investments during the first quarter of 2023 (Q1 2023), indicating that Malaysia continues to be favoured by investors and highlights its value as a preferred investment location.

A total of 1,265 projects were approved during this period, and it is expected that these projects will create 23,977 new job opportunities across various sectors such as manufacturing, services, and primary industries.

Malaysia’s investment landscape attracts more foreign direct investments (FDI) than domestic direct investments (DDI). FDI contributed RM37.5 billion, accounting for 52.5% of the total approved investments. DDI accounted for RM33.9 billion, making up 47.5% of the total approved investments. This reflects the renewed confidence of domestic investors in Malaysia’s economic progress and prospects.

During the first quarter of 2023 (Q1 2023), the services sector in Malaysia outperformed all other sectors in terms of approved investments. It recorded an impressive amount of RM53.6 billion, accounting for 75.1% of the total approved investments. This represents a year-on-year growth of 226.8% compared to the figure of RM16.4 billion in Q1 2022. The RM53.6 billion investment is associated with 1,058 approved projects, expected to create 12,051 new job opportunities.

Within the services sector, the information and communications sub-sector stood out prominently, attracting approved investments valued at RM24.9 billion, representing a significant share of 46.5%. The real estate sub-sector followed closely, securing RM15.5 billion (28.9%), while distributive trade accounted for RM6.7 billion (12.5%). Financial services received RM2.2 billion (4.1%), and support services attracted RM1.8 billion (3.4%) in approved investments. These figures highlight the strength and attractiveness of the services sector in Malaysia’s investment landscape.

The Malaysian government’s focus on green investment has been evident through the approval of several projects in the field of green technology and renewable energy initiatives. These projects demonstrate the commitment to sustainability and highlight the diverse and promising opportunities within the services sector.

By supporting and promoting green technology, Malaysia is positioning itself as a hub for sustainable development and attracting investments in renewable energy. This emphasis on green investment aligns with global efforts to transition to a low-carbon economy and addresses environmental challenges such as climate change.

During the first quarter of 2023 (Q1 2023), Malaysia continued to attract a substantial level of investments in the manufacturing sector. The approved investments in this sector amounted to RM15.6 billion, which accounted for 21.8% of the total approved investments during the period.

The commitment to the manufacturing sector was demonstrated through the approval of 192 manufacturing projects, which are expected to create over 11,900 new job opportunities. These projects signify Malaysia’s dedication to fostering industrial growth and expanding employment prospects.

Within the manufacturing sector, a significant portion of the approved investments was allocated to key industries. The transport equipment industry took the lead with RM4.4 billion (28.2%), followed by machinery and equipment with RM2.6 billion (16.6%). Basic metal products accounted for RM2.3 billion (14.7%), while electrical and electronics (E&E) received RM2.1 billion (13.2%). Non-metallic mineral products attracted RM1.6 billion (10.3%). Collectively, these industries contributed to 83.1% of the total approved investments in the manufacturing sector.

The manufacturing sector in Malaysia secured approval for several innovative, high value-added and high-technology projects. This showcases the serious intent of the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) to use investments to drive technological advancement, redefine industry standards, and sustainably fuel future economic growth.

By encouraging investments in advanced manufacturing and promoting technology-driven projects, Malaysia aims to enhance its industrial capabilities, elevate its competitive position, and support long-term economic development.

Malaysia’s commitment to technological advancement in the manufacturing sector underscores its goal of attracting global investments and fostering innovation. By embracing cutting-edge technologies, Malaysia positions itself as a hub for high-value, high-tech ventures with immense growth potential.

This focus drives economic diversification, enhances productivity, and promotes competitiveness. By creating an ecosystem conducive to innovation, Malaysia aims to attract both foreign and domestic investments, drive economic growth, and establish itself as a leader in high-tech manufacturing.

In Q1 2023, Malaysia’s primary sector attracted investments worth RM2.2 billion. Although the amount is relatively modest, these investments have the potential to bring positive economic impact. In the Mining Sub-sector, RM2.1 billion was approved for mining projects, showcasing Malaysia’s ability to extract and use valuable minerals from its resource-rich landscape. Meanwhile, the plantation and commodities sub-sector received investments of RM65.1 million, reflecting efforts to improve productivity and sustainability in agricultural practices.

While the contribution of the primary sector may be smaller compared to services and manufacturing, these investments lay the foundation for future growth and innovation.

Malaysia’s investment landscape presents bright prospects with a pipeline of proposed investments and lead projects overseen by MIDA. The pipeline includes 878 projects amounting to RM35.9 billion, while lead projects are valued at RM150.4 billion.

The manufacturing sector dominates with 78.8% (RM28.3 billion) of the pipeline projects, while the services sector accounts for 21.2% (RM7.6 billion), showcasing a diverse investment portfolio. These figures reflect confidence in Malaysia’s potential and highlight ongoing interest from businesses and investors.

AI-Powered Micro-Supports Revolutionising Personalised Well-Being Delivery

The rate of unhappiness, anxiety, fear, loneliness, and lack of purpose among Americans has reached alarming levels, adversely impacting both, their mental and physical well-being. These issues have far-reaching implications, resulting in various adverse outcomes. Furthermore, many individuals cannot access mental health services through conventional channels.

Researchers at the University of Wisconsin–Madison’s Center for Healthy Minds are working to deal with these complex issues and enhance human well-being. They are conducting experiments to discover solutions that utilise Artificial Intelligence (AI) in delivering personalised well-being content through individuals’ mobile devices as and when required.

“We are optimist to support individuals’ well-being on mobile phones that are sensitive to what they feel and easy to engage with themselves,” explained Christy Wilson-Mendenhall, Co-investigator on the new, two-year project, which is set to launch this year.

The research received a US$3 million donation from the Defence Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) to support its goal of exploring and developing technologies that could potentially enhance the delivery of algorithm-based micro-supports in the future. The support of the programme will be delivered through a version of the Healthy Minds programme, currently used in the Healthy Minds Program smartphone app.

The project will start with a multi-phase study involving human participants to forecast their temporal emotional states. Specifically, the study will focus on moments when individuals experience feelings of distraction, loneliness, self-criticism, or unfulfillment, as these are instances in which they may potentially derive advantages from micro-support.

This initial phase will be valuable input for creating machine learning tools and algorithms for the upcoming platform. The researchers aim to refine their micro-support framework and content by conducting tests involving diverse participants. These tests will evaluate the micro-supports’ relevance, timeliness, and potential helpfulness to users.

Ultimately, the objective is to develop a platform capable of delivering micro-supports triggered by an algorithmic mechanism. In practical implementation, the application will collect participant data in real-time through an “experience sampling” process.

This sampling method will involve participants creating short videos responding to encouragement, such as “I am feeling…”. By doing this, the application will capture their current emotional state. Additionally, the app will passively gather mobile data, such as the participants’ geolocation information and activity patterns.

Afterwards, researchers will collect and analyse the data to assess the user’s well-being, per the four pillars of the Healthy Minds well-being framework: awareness, connection, insight and purpose. Researchers will analyse the data to assess users’ well-being in terms of the four pillars of the Healthy Minds well-being framework: awareness, connection, insight and purpose.

Awareness emphasises cultivating mindfulness and developing an ability to observe and acknowledge one’s experiences without judgment. Connection fosters a sense of community, reduces loneliness, and contributes to overall well-being.

Insight focuses on developing self-reflection skills and questioning and reframing negative or unhelpful thinking patterns. It allows individuals to develop resilience and make positive life changes. While purpose gives individuals a sense of direction, enhances their overall well-being, and helps them navigate challenges.

The findings from this analysis will guide the provision of concise “in-the-moment” well-being practices designed to actively involve users in fostering positive behaviours throughout the day. These micro-supports will be designed to be effortless, enabling users to fully immerse themselves in their daily activities while still benefiting from the practices.

Davidson believes that these micro-supports delivered at the right time and place may impact well-being.

Advancing Breast Cancer Reconstruction with 3D Bioprinting

Associate Professor Jaydee Cabral, a researcher from the Department of Microbiology and Immunology at Otago University, is creating a project focused on developing 3D-printed nipple areolar complexes specifically designed for breast cancer patients. The objective of this innovative research is to support individuals who have had a mastectomy (breast-conserving surgery), helping them regain a sense of self-confidence.

Despite significant advancements in mastectomy procedures, there is still a prevailing gap in clinical solutions to effectively replace the nipple area that can be lost during surgery. This absence of suitable options has been a persistent challenge for breast cancer patients seeking aesthetic restoration and psychological well-being after mastectomy. The absence of a clinically available replacement for the nipple area has left many patients with limited choices and compromised body image and self-confidence outcomes.

By utilising the advanced 3D printing technology, Professor Cabral and her team were able to create customisable and highly accurate nipple areolar complexes that closely mimic the natural appearance and texture of the breast of the patient.

“My research resides at the interface of chemistry, microbiology, and bioengineering to develop novel medical devices for various biomedical applications and I would love to bring students into this global phenomenon,” Professor Cabral said.

This 3D bio print technique technology utilises a specialised bioprinter capable of creating a gel-based environment that is conducive to cell growth and serves as a scaffold system. The gel provides a cell-friendly structure where the cells can organise themselves into more intricate living structures.

The technique involves using water-loving polymers with a soft texture suitable for the extrusion of 3D printing. These polymers provide a cell-friendly environment, allowing cells to grow into complex living structures. The process involves carefully extruding the polymers using a bioprinter, layer by layer, to create the desired three-dimensional object.

Once the printing is finished, UV light solidifies the structure into a more rigid form. UV light enhances the molecular bonds within the material, strengthening it and enabling seamless integration with surrounding tissues.

Dr Cabral’s research expertise lies in developing 3D bio-printed vasculature, specifically focusing on the intricate network of blood vessels. The creation of thicker tissue poses unique challenges compared to thinner tissue due to the increased risk of inadequate oxygen levels and limited nutrient supply, which can result in tissue necrosis.

A recipient of the Royal Society of New Zealand’s Catalyst Seed Fund, she said that this research is important because there is currently nothing clinically available to replace the nipple area that can be lost during a mastectomy.

Consequently, there is a growing need for innovative research and development efforts to bridge this gap and provide breast cancer patients with reconstructive alternatives that can restore the natural appearance of the nipple area.

The 3D bioprinting approach holds great potential in revolutionising innovations, particularly in the field of regenerative medicine and tissue engineering. It represents a significant advancement in reconstructive surgery for breast cancer patients.

Dr Cabral is optimistic that her innovation in addressing the challenge of vascularisation for thicker tissue, such as creating 3D bio-printed vasculature, will create opportunities which could lead to other remarkable advancements in tissue engineering in the future.

Singapore: Magnetic Muscle Therapy Reversing Ageing Trends

Digital innovation empowers ageing individuals by promoting better health management, social engagement, cognitive stimulation, safety, and access to resources, ultimately improving their overall quality of life.

While ageing is frequently accompanied by a deterioration in functional mobility, loss of muscle strength, and an increase in body fat, this trend could be reversed thanks to a novel magnetic muscle therapy developed by researchers at the National University of Singapore (NUS).

Weekly exposure to very low levels of proprietary pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF) using the BIXEPS device invented by NUS researchers in 2019 is associated with significant improvements in mobility and body composition after 12 weeks, particularly in older people, according to a recent community study conducted in Singapore involving 101 participants aged 38 to 91 years old. After three months of magnetic muscle therapy, participants reported reduced pain perception.

Associate Professor Alfredo Franco-Obregón, who led the research team and is a Principal Investigator with NUS iHealthtech and co-founder of QuantumTX, says that the BIXEPS device uses a specific magnetic signature to target the muscles in a user’s leg and create metabolic activity in the cells, just like when a person exercises.

Studies from the past showed that when magnetic muscle treatment was used on one leg after knee surgery, the whole body’s metabolism improved. This was mostly seen as changes in the blood lipid profiles. That is, the effect went beyond just the leg that was treated and led to changes throughout the whole body.

After eight weeks of treatment, 72% of individuals reported improved skeletal muscle maintenance along with reductions in total and visceral fats, with 85% of subjects reporting improvements in functional mobility after 12 weeks, most notably among the elderly.

These encouraging findings suggest that this PEMF-based technology could be a beneficial adjunct to traditional geriatric therapies aimed at lowering the prevalence of frailty and metabolic diseases in the elderly population.

Importantly, visceral fat is an inflammatory fat that has been linked to a variety of metabolic diseases, including diabetes. Previous research has found that people in Southeast Asia retain visceral fat more persistently than persons in other regions of the world, despite exercise.

As a result, people in Southeast Asia get diabetes at a lower BMI than persons of other ethnicities. This has created a significant challenge for the Southeast Asian health business. Researchers finally have a solution to this local healthcare dilemma in the form of magnetic field therapy.

Based on the promising findings of the community study, the team has collaborated with research groups in the United States and Hong Kong to perform randomised controlled clinical studies to further validate the advantages of frailty across various ageing groups.

Since 2022, the team has also begun a senior-focused study with 200 elders across four Singapore community care centres to assess how the technology can improve function and ease chronic problems. This research is projected to be completed in 2023.

Real-world pilot data from current community programmes have also shown promise of improved HbA1c control – the most common measure for diabetes progression – after beginning weekly BIXEPS sessions.

The research team is currently collaborating with the Singapore General Hospital to perform a clinical trial to evaluate further the therapeutic potential of PEMF-based therapies for diabetes progression management.

India’s Urban Future: Innovations in the Smart Cities Mission

The consultative committee of the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs was briefed by Hardeep S. Puri, the Minister for Housing and Urban Affairs, about the progress made in the Smart Cities Mission. Minister Puri highlighted the significant advancements taking place within the 100 smart cities and their positive impact on India’s urban future. He underscored the vital role played by Special Purpose Vehicles (SPV) in effectively managing and implementing the mission at the city level, thus maximising its potential.

The Smart Cities Mission, launched in June 2015, seeks to enhance the lives of citizens by implementing “smart solutions” that focus on core infrastructure, a clean and sustainable environment, and a high quality of life. Under the initiative, 100 cities were selected through a two-stage competition to be developed as Smart Cities. According to the government, the regions are showcasing satisfactory advancements.

The Smart Cities Mission is overseen by an Apex Committee led by the Secretary of the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs. They regularly provide updates on the implementation status of projects through the Real-Time Geographical Management Information System (GMIS). According to the Smart Cities Mission Statement and Guidelines, each city establishes a Smart City Advisory Forum (SCAF) at the local level to facilitate collaboration and provide guidance. The SCAF comprises various stakeholders such as Members of Parliament, Members of the Legislative Assembly, the Mayor, the District Collector, local youth, technical experts, and other relevant parties. So far, the Smart Cities have convened more than 756 SCAF meetings.

In addition, at the state level, a High Powered Steering Committee (HPSC) chaired by the Chief Secretary has been established. This committee plays a crucial role in overseeing the Smart Cities Mission within the state. Furthermore, the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs appoints Nominee Directors to the Boards of Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs) who actively monitor the progress of projects in their respective cities.

The Committee conducted visits to various project sites in Goa, including the ‘Mandovi Riverfront Promenade’, ‘Flood Mitigation Works’, and the Integrated Command and Control Centre (ICCC). During these visits, the status and progress of the projects were discussed as of 1 May 2023. It was highlighted that the Smart Cities Mission comprises approximately 7,800 projects with a total value of INR 1.8 trillion (US$ 21 billion). Out of these, more than 5,700 projects (73% by number) worth INR 1.1 trillion (US$ 13.3 billion) (60% by value) have already been completed. The remaining projects are expected to be completed by June 2024. Also, INR 38,400 crores (US$ 4.6 billion) have been released under the Smart Cities Mission as of 1 May, out of which INR 35,261 crores (US$ 4.2 billion) has been used.

The Ministry maintains regular communication and engagement with the states and Smart Cities through video conferences, review meetings, field visits, regional workshops, and more. These interactions occur at different levels and serve multiple purposes, including assessing the performance of cities and providing necessary support and guidance for their improvement.

An official said that ICCCs play a crucial role in enhancing situational awareness through the utilisation of advanced technologies. These centres provide comprehensive visualisations that enable civic officials to effectively address various urban functions and handle daily tasks, issues, and emergencies following detailed standard operating procedures. ICCCs have evolved into the central hubs of these smart cities, showcasing the effective application of technology in fortifying urban management.

May 30, 2023

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Vietnam’s Wireless Development: 6G Technology, Broadband Satellite

Singapore Integrating Digital Trade and Sustainability

Da Nang Leads in Digital Transformation and Smart City Development

Unlocking Opportunities: Malaysia’s Thriving Investment Landscape

AI-Powered Micro-Supports Revolutionising Personalised Well-Being Delivery

Advancing Breast Cancer Reconstruction with 3D Bioprinting

Singapore: Magnetic Muscle Therapy Reversing Ageing Trends

India’s Urban Future: Innovations in the Smart Cities Mission

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