Smart Governance, Smarter Cities: AI in Urban India’s Transformation

India’s urban landscape is undergoing a significant transformation, driven by rapid population growth, infrastructural strain, and the urgent need for sustainable development. With over 40% of the population expected to live in cities by 2036, traditional governance models are proving inadequate. In this context, Artificial Intelligence (AI) is emerging as a key enabler of smart governance — a data-driven, efficient, and citizen-centric approach to managing urban complexity. This paper examines the role of AI in reshaping urban governance in India under the Smart Cities Mission and related digital initiatives. AI technologies such as machine learning, computer vision, and natural language processing are being deployed for traffic optimization, predictive policing, waste management, water distribution, and real-time air quality monitoring. Digital governance tools like AI-powered chatbots, automated grievance redressal systems, and data analytics platforms are improving transparency, service delivery, and public engagement