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@article{199488,
        author = {Belle Saritha},
        title = {From Infrastructure to Intelligence: A Critical Study of Technology-Driven Smart City Initiatives and Their Socio-Economic Impact},
        journal = {International Journal of Innovative Research in Technology},
        year = {2026},
        volume = {12},
        number = {12},
        pages = {670-675},
        issn = {2349-6002},
        url = {https://ijirt.org/article?manuscript=199488},
        abstract = {The Smart City model has become a dominant framework for urban development in the 21st century, with governments around the world increasingly adopting technology-driven approaches to manage infrastructure, services, and citizen engagement. In India, the Smart Cities Mission (SCM) launched in 2015 sought to leverage Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs), Internet of Things (IoT), and data analytics to enhance efficiency, sustainability, and livability. However, while technology has emerged as a transformative force, critical concerns regarding inclusivity, governance, and socio-economic disparities remain unresolved. This paper explores the transition from infrastructure-focused urban planning to intelligence-driven governance, examining the socio-economic implications of such initiatives. It assesses both opportunities and challenges, drawing insights from global literature and Indian case studies. The paper concludes by arguing for a balanced approach that integrates technological intelligence with social equity, sustainability, and participatory governance to ensure resilient and inclusive urban development.},
        keywords = {Smart Cities Mission (SCM); Information and Communication Technologies (ICT); Internet of Things (IoT); Urban Governance; Sustainable Development; Inclusive Cities.},
        month = {May},
        }