History of PM Gati Shakti
Traditionally, there existed a notable lack of synergy among different Departments. For instance, a scenario often arose where a freshly built road was subsequently dug up by other agencies for purposes such as installing underground cables or gas pipelines. This not only inconvenienced the public but also led to unnecessary expenses. To counter this, deliberate attempts were made to enhance coordination, enabling the simultaneous laying of cables, pipelines, and more. Moreover, measures were introduced to tackle issues like protracted approval processes and the complexity of regulatory clearances.
In recent years, the Government has exhibited an unprecedented commitment to infrastructure development, adopting a comprehensive approach. This approach aims to redress historical challenges by establishing an integrated planning framework for all stakeholders involved in significant infrastructure ventures. Instead of operating in isolated compartments, projects will now be conceived and executed under a unified vision, eradicating siloed planning and fostering a more streamlined and efficient implementation process.
First glance about PM Gati Shakti
The PM Gati Shakti initiative is set to bring together a range of infrastructure schemes from different Ministries and State Governments. These include notable programs like Bharatmala, Sagarmala, inland waterways, dry/land ports, and UDAN, among others. The focus will extend to Economic Zones encompassing diverse sectors such as textiles, pharmaceuticals, defense, electronics, industries, fisheries, and agriculture. This comprehensive approach aims to enhance connectivity and bolster the competitiveness of Indian businesses.
To achieve these goals, advanced technology will play a pivotal role. The initiative will tap into cutting-edge tools, including spatial planning techniques using imagery from ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation), which will be developed by BiSAG-N (Bhaskaracharya National Institute for Space Applications and Geoinformatics).
More About PM Gati Shakti
The Gati Shakti initiative is set to encompass the Rs 110 lakh crore National Infrastructure Pipeline, launched in 2019, into its framework. Alongside its goal of reducing logistics costs, the scheme aims to amplify cargo handling capacity and streamline port operations to enhance trade efficiency.
A vital focus of the scheme involves the establishment of 11 industrial corridors and the introduction of two new defence corridors—one in Tamil Nadu and another in Uttar Pradesh. The comprehensive approach also includes extending 4G connectivity to all villages and expanding the gas pipeline network by 17,000 kms.
These initiatives are strategically aligned with the government’s ambitious targets for 2024-25, including the expansion of the national highway network to 2 lakh kms, the establishment of over 200 new airports, heliports, and water aerodromes.
By uniting 16 infrastructure-related Ministries, the initiative aims to overcome long-standing issues like fragmented planning, standardization gaps, clearance challenges, and the efficient utilization of infrastructure capabilities.
A key feature of the Gati Shakti scheme is the creation of a unified digital platform. This platform will facilitate efficient planning and real-time coordination among various ministries and departments for the effective implementation of infrastructure projects.
Anticipated outcomes of the initiative include the comprehensive mapping of existing and planned connectivity projects, offering greater clarity on the interlinking of different regions and industrial hubs, especially for last-mile connectivity. This cohesive transport connectivity strategy is poised to support the Make in India initiative and seamlessly integrate diverse modes of transportation, positioning India as a global business hub.
PM Gati Shakti stands on six foundational pillars, each serving a distinct purpose:
- Comprehensive Approach: This initiative embraces all current and upcoming projects from various Ministries and Departments under a centralized portal. It fosters transparency and collaboration, enabling departments to access each other’s activities, which is crucial for effective project planning and execution.
- Prioritization Mechanism: By promoting cross-sectoral interactions, different departments gain the ability to prioritize their projects more effectively, leading to better resource allocation and project outcomes.
- Optimal Resource Utilization: The National Master Plan plays a pivotal role in identifying critical gaps and guiding ministries in project planning. It aids in selecting the most efficient routes for transporting goods, optimizing both time and cost factors.
- Seamless Coordination: The initiative addresses the issue of isolated efforts by different Ministries and Departments. PM GatiShakti harmonizes their activities and enhances interdepartmental and multilayered governance coordination, streamlining the entire process.
- Data-Driven Insights: The plan integrates a rich repository of information within a single platform, powered by GIS-based spatial planning and analytical tools featuring over 200 layers. This comprehensive data hub offers a clearer perspective to executing agencies.
- Real-Time Progress Tracking: A dynamic component is introduced through real-time progress monitoring. The GIS platform, coupled with satellite imagery, provides regular on-ground updates on cross-sectoral projects. This feature aids Ministries and Departments in visualizing, reviewing, and monitoring project progress, facilitating informed decision-making. Additionally, this ongoing monitoring enables timely interventions and refinements to the master plan, ensuring it stays relevant and effective.
Significance of pm gati shakti scheme
1. The initiative will offer a comprehensive and all-encompassing outlook on both ongoing and planned infrastructure undertakings spanning diverse sectors and geographical regions. This encompassing view will facilitate the identification of crucial gaps and opportunities for synergy.
2. Enhanced coordination and collaboration are expected to flourish among different ministries, departments, and even between central and state governments. This collaborative atmosphere aims to ensure the punctual and efficient execution of projects while considering both time and costs.
3. Cutting-edge technology and data integration will play a pivotal role in closely monitoring project advancement and performance. This approach promises to deliver transparency and accuracy in information dissemination, catering to the needs of stakeholders and the general public.
4. Furthermore, a strategic linkage between infrastructure projects and economic zones, including industrial corridors, textile clusters, defence corridors, and electronic parks, is anticipated. Such connectivity enhancement is poised to augment their overall competitiveness and accessibility.
5. This initiative is set to provide substantial support to the overarching goal of achieving a robust $5 trillion economy by 2024-25, with an even more ambitious target of a $20 trillion economy by the year 2040.
Challenges of PM Gati Shakti
Effective Collaboration among Diverse Participants
PM Gati Shakti involves the harmonious coordination of a multitude of stakeholders, including 16 central-level ministries and departments, 29 state governments and union territories at the state level, local bodies at the district level, private sector entities at the market level, and grassroots civil society organizations. This calls for efficient communication, seamless collaboration, and consensus-building among these varied actors to prevent conflicts and ensure smooth progress.
Resource Mobilization Challenge
The successful execution of PM Gati Shakti demands a substantial infusion of financial resources. However, this presents a challenge within the context of fiscal limitations and competing demands for public spending. To overcome this hurdle, the government needs to explore diverse funding sources, including public-private partnerships, multilateral agencies, sovereign wealth funds, and pension funds. It’s also crucial to ensure the transparent and effective utilization of funds, preventing any leaks or corruption.
Reforming Regulatory Framework
Creating an enabling regulatory environment is essential for the smooth implementation of PM Gati Shakti projects. This necessitates the streamlining of approval processes, simplification of land acquisition procedures, harmonization of tax structures, and rationalization of tariff systems. Robust mechanisms for dispute resolution also need strengthening. Legislative and administrative reforms are imperative to establish a streamlined single-window clearance system for projects.
Building Capacities
PM Gati Shakti demands a skilled and proficient workforce to design, execute, and maintain the projects. This entails enhancing the technical, managerial, and operational capabilities of government officials, contractors, consultants, engineers, and workers. Investing in education, training, and skill development initiatives is crucial to nurture a reservoir of human capital tailored for the infrastructure sector’s needs.
Environmental and Societal Safeguards
The successful implementation of PM Gati Shakti hinges on a meticulous evaluation of the environmental and social impacts associated with its projects. Adhering to environmental standards and mitigating adverse effects on biodiversity, climate, and water resources is pivotal. Ensuring the participation, consultation, and consent of affected communities, especially vulnerable groups like women, children, and tribal populations, is essential. An all-encompassing and inclusive approach is required to effectively address the environmental and social considerations inherent in the projects.
Way forward for PM Gati Shakti
Establishing an Enabling Policy and Regulatory Atmosphere
The aim is to foster a favorable policy and regulatory landscape that encourages active engagement and investment from the private sector in infrastructure endeavors. This will involve offering incentives, guarantees, and effective dispute resolution mechanisms to create an environment conducive to their participation.
Harnessing the Power of Digital Innovations
Efforts will be directed toward tapping into the capabilities of cutting-edge digital technologies like artificial intelligence, big data analytics, and blockchain. These technologies will play a pivotal role in elevating the effectiveness and transparency of infrastructure planning and execution, thereby benefiting the overall project delivery process.
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