NEC committed to shape better future for citizens

In today’s rapidly changing urban landscape, the advancement of infrastructure technology is crucial for developing sustainable smart cities. NEC Corporation India is leading this transformation by leveraging AI, IoT, real-time data integration, and advanced connectivity to enhance public services and urban living. With innovative solutions like Intelligent Video Analytics and Integrated Command Centres, NEC addresses urban challenges while prioritizing safety and efficiency. Their initiatives, including the Mi-City Citizen Engagement Portal and advanced traffic management systems, aim to improve mobility and quality of life. While interacting with VARINDIA, Shiv Kumar Singh, Chief Operating Officer and Head, Smart City Global Centre of Excellence, NEC India, discussed the company’s commitment to collaboration and innovation in shaping the future of urban environments.

How do you envision infrastructure technology evolving in the next decade, especially in the context of smart cities? What role will NEC play in shaping this transformation?
At NEC, we believe that technologies such as AI, real-time data integration, and advanced connectivity will shape the future of smart cities. By focusing on solutions that enhance public services and promote sustainability, NEC aims to create vibrant, resilient communities. For example, our Mi-City (Citizen Engagement Portal) fosters stronger connections between citizens and government bodies, while our traffic management systems significantly enhance urban mobility. Committed to innovation, NEC endeavours to develop smart cities that improve quality of life and meet the evolving needs of urban environments, ultimately contributing to a better future for all citizens.

How is NEC leveraging advanced technologies like AI, IoT, and data analytics to address the complex challenges of urbanization and improve the quality of life?
At NEC, we harness advanced technologies to address the pressing challenges of urbanization. In cities like Gurgaon near Delhi and in Kalyan Dombivli, Mumbai our Intelligent Video Analytics system enhances public safety through real-time monitoring. In cities like Thiruvananthapuram, Tamil Nadu and Surat, Gujarat, our Integrated Command and Control Centers (ICCC) manage critical city services—from law enforcement to waste management ensuring smooth operations. Our AI-driven traffic management systems in Meerut and Saharanpur, in Uttar Pradesh are reducing congestion and enhancing road safety. Across airports in India, our advanced facial recognition and biometric solutions are improving security and efficiency, ensuring a smoother passenger experience. These technologies are helping us create safer, smarter cities and improving the quality of life for millions.

How does NEC approach co-creating smart city solutions with various alliances and partnerships to ensure sustainable and scalable growth?
At NEC, we view partnerships as the cornerstone of building smarter cities. By collaborating closely with government bodies and industry partners, we co-create solutions that are not only innovative but also scalable and sustainable. Our approach is deeply aligned with India's long-term urban development goals, ensuring that these solutions are adaptable to the country’s unique challenges. Whether it's enhancing public services or modernizing infrastructure, we focus on creating connected, efficient cities that improve quality of life. Our commitment to co-creation ensures that these solutions are built for lasting impact, setting standards both in India and globally.

What are some key trends you see emerging in smart city development globally? How does NEC plan to maintain its leadership by anticipating and adapting to these trends?
Globally, smart city development is advancing through trends like integrated mobility, where cities are creating real-time, connected transport networks that integrate public transit, electric vehicles, and shared mobility solutions. Digital governance is also expanding, with technology improving service delivery and citizen participation. Additionally, predictive infrastructure management is gaining traction, allowing cities to optimize resources and enhance public services.

NEC stays at the forefront with solutions like NEC Mi-Command, which serves as the brain for city operations, exception handling, and disaster management. Mi-Command, coupled with pioneering technologies such as AI, IoT, and NEC Mi Eye (an intelligent video analytics system), leverages real-time data for informed decision-making, giving cities greater situation awareness and enabling them to achieve more with fewer resources. By collaborating closely with governments and stakeholders, we ensure that our solutions are tailored to meet the evolving needs of urban environments, maintaining our leadership in smart city innovation.

“In Gurgaon and Kalyan Dombivli, our Intelligent Video Analytics system enhances public safety through real-time monitoring. In cities like Thiruvananthapuram and Surat, our Integrated Command and Control Centers (ICCC) manage critical city services from law enforcement to waste management ensuring smoother operations. Our AI-driven traffic management systems in Meerut and Saharanpur are reducing congestion and enhancing road safety”