The Assignment
MaGC was onboarded as part of a consortium of consultants to support the French Development Agency (AFD) in co-designing the Euro 212 million CITIIS 2 programme under the Smart Cities Mission. The program focussed on climate investments in the urban sector in India, with part of the financing structured on the results-based financing (RBF) model.

MaGC’s Approach and Methodology
The assignment commenced with a diagnostic study aimed at capturing lessons learned from the first phase of the CITIIS program (CITIIS 1) and other urban management programs across India. Insights from this study informed the key design considerations for CITIIS 2. Stakeholder workshops were organised to gather diverse inputs and perspectives on program design, results chain, and financing and implementation arrangements.

The Output
A comprehensive Program document was developed, encapsulating key elements of the program design—such as target outcomes, program objectives, results framework, financing pattern, monitoring and evaluation, and anticipated risks and mitigation actions. While building on the success of CITIIS 1, the design of CITIIS 2 stands out for its multi-level engagement strategy, aiming to catalyse action at the city, state, and national levels. Notably, it introduced a results-based financing approach, marking a first for AFD in the Indian context.