PRAGATI-50 launched to develop 50 model clean cities under Swachh Bharat Mission–Urban 2.0

PRAGATI-50 was launched on 29 September 2026 in New Delhi to develop 50 model cities across 24 states under Swachh Bharat Mission–Urban 2.0. It seeks better urban cleanliness, solid waste management, used water management, sanitation and citizen participation, tracked through Key Performance Indicators. The chosen cities include capitals, cultural centres, pilgrimage towns, tourism hubs and economic centres, meant to serve as role models for other urban local bodies. The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs will implement it, with the Union Minister chairing reviews every two months. Uttar Pradesh's six cities are Agra, Ayodhya, Lucknow, Mathura-Vrindavan, Prayagraj and Varanasi.