Yojana Magazine Summary October 2023- Infrastructure

Yojana Magazine Summary September 2023

Yojana magazine is monthly magazine published by government of India’s Ministry of Information and Broadcasting. In this page we will explore Yojana Magazine Summary for October 2023 edition. It provides a comprehensive analysis of recent government initiatives aimed at fostering inclusive growth and addressing social inequalities. Below are major insights from October 2023 edition:

1. PM VISHWAKARMA

The PM Vishwakarma scheme, a novel initiative by the Government of India, is designed to enhance the quality and accessibility of products and services crafted by artisans and skilled craftspeople. As a fully funded Central Sector Scheme, it is a collaborative effort between the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, the Department of Financial Services, and the Ministry of Finance.

The primary objectives of PM Vishwakarma include integrating Vishwakarmas into both domestic and global value chains. Through a holistic approach, the scheme aims to preserve cultural practices, generational skills, and the guru-shishya parampara, offering identity and recognition to artisans.

The scheme comprises several key components:

• Recognition: Artisans will be awarded the prestigious PM Vishwakarma Certificate and ID Card.
• Skill Upgradation: Emphasizing continuous improvement and learning.
• Toolkit Incentive: Providing support for essential tools to enhance productivity.
• Credit Support: Facilitating financial assistance for artisans.
• Incentive for Digital Transactions: Encouraging the adoption of digital modes for transactions.
• Marketing Support: Assisting artisans in promoting and selling their products effectively.

In essence, PM Vishwakarma emerges as a comprehensive initiative fostering the growth and sustainability of traditional craftsmanship while ensuring its seamless integration into the contemporary economic landscape.

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2. VOYAGE TO STUDY THE EARTH’S SUN.

Aditya-L1: India’s First Solar Mission

Mission Overview:

• Aditya-L1 is India’s inaugural space-based solar mission, aimed at studying the Sun.
• The spacecraft will orbit around Lagrange point 1 (L1) of the Sun-Earth system, situated approximately 1.5 million km from Earth.
• Seven payloads aboard Aditya-L1 will observe the photosphere, chromosphere, and the outermost layers (corona) using electromagnetic, particle, and magnetic field detectors.

Solar Facts:

• The Sun, approximately 5 billion years old, is a hot, luminous sphere primarily composed of hydrogen and helium gases.
• The Sun’s gravitational force binds the solar system’s objects together.
• The core, with temperatures reaching up to 15 million degrees Celsius, hosts nuclear fusion, the process powering the Sun.
• The visible surface, photosphere, maintains a temperature of about 5,500°C.

Mission Significance:

• Aditya-L1 is the first space-based observatory-class mission focused on comprehensively studying the Sun.
• Placed in a halo orbit around L1, it offers continuous solar observation without occultation or eclipse.

Lagrange Points:

• Lagrange points are positions in space where a small object remains relatively stationary in a two-body gravitational system.
• L1, situated along the Sun-Earth line, provides the optimal location for solar observation.

Solar Studies from Space:

• The Sun emits radiation and particles across various wavelengths.
• Earth’s atmosphere and magnetic field act as protective shields, hindering certain radiations.
• Space-based observations are crucial for studying solar radiations unattainable from Earth’s surface.

Challenges and Focus Areas:

• Aditya-L1 faces challenges in studying multi-directional solar phenomena.
• Technological hurdles limit the exploration of Polar Regions crucial for understanding solar dynamics and magnetic fields affecting solar cycles.

Objectives of Aditya-L1 Payloads:

• Address critical aspects such as coronal heating, Coronal Mass Ejection (CME), pre-flare and flare activities, and the dynamics of space weather.
• Investigate the propagation of particles and fields in the interplanetary medium.

Aditya-L1 signifies India’s commitment to advancing solar research, aiming to unlock deeper insights into the Sun’s behaviour and its impact on space weather.

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3. CHANDRAYAAN-3: INDIA’S SUCCESSFUL LUNAR MISSION.

Chandrayaan-3 Lunar Landing:

• On 23rd August 2023, India achieved a historic milestone as the Chandrayaan-3 Lander, Vikram, successfully soft-landed on the lunar surface.
• Recognizing this achievement, 23rd August is now celebrated as National Space Day in India to commemorate Chandrayaan-3’s landing.

Global Achievement:

• India becomes the fourth country globally to achieve a lunar landing and secures the distinction of being the first to land near the Moon’s south pole, an unexplored region.

India’s Space Journey:

• India’s space odyssey, from its initial sounding rocket launches to the triumphant Chandrayaan-3 mission, showcases remarkable progress.
• The nation’s successful space missions, including the Mars Orbiter Mission (MOM), AstroSat (India’s first dedicated Space Astronomy Observatory), and the indigenous navigation satellite system (NavIC), exemplify India’s prowess in space technology.

Make in India to the Moon:

• India’s recent accomplishments in space highlight the implementation of the ‘Make in India’ initiative in lunar exploration.
• The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is pivotal in establishing India as a space sector pioneer on the global stage.

Private Sector Participation:

• To foster private sector involvement in space endeavors, IN-SPACE (Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre) was established.
• Over 150 space startups are currently collaborating with ISRO, reflecting the burgeoning private sector interest in space exploration.

Global Prowess:

• India’s forays into space not only showcase technological capabilities but also position the country as a leading force in the global space sector.

India’s journey to the Moon with Chandrayaan-3 underscores national achievements, global significance, and the vibrant collaboration between ISRO and the emerging private space sector.

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4. SPACE INFRASTRUCTURE.

Evolution of Indian Space Program:

Establishment (1962-1969):

• In 1962, the Indian National Committee for Space Research (INCOSPAR) marked the beginning of India’s space activities.
• The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) emerged in August 1969, supplanting INCOSPAR.

Institutional Development (1972):

• The Space Commission and the Department of Space (DOS) were formed in June
• ISRO was brought under DOS in September 1972.

Space Commission’s Role:

• The Space Commission formulates policies and oversees the implementation of the Indian space program.
• Aims to promote the development and application of space science and technology for socio-economic benefits.

Major Establishments of DOS:

• Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC):
  • Located in Thiruvananthapuram, VSSC focuses on launch vehicle technology.
  • Major programs include PSLV, GSLV, and LVM3 development.
• UR Rao Satellite Centre (URSC):
  • Based in Bengaluru, URSC leads in designing communication, navigation, and remote sensing satellites.
  • Built advanced satellites for telecommunications, television broadcasting, tele-medicine, etc.
• Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC)-SHAR:
  • Positioned in Andhra Pradesh, SDSC-SHAR is India’s spaceport, providing launch infrastructure.
• Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre (LPSC):
  • LPSC, the lead center, develops advanced propulsion systems for launch vehicles and spacecraft.
• Space Applications Centre (SAC):
  • Located in Ahmedabad, SAC is a major R&D centre for space-borne instruments and payloads.
  • Specializes in optical and microwave sensors, signal and image processing, GIS software.
• Human Space Flight Centre (HSFC):
  • Formed in 2019, HSFC concentrates on human spaceflight activities, particularly the Gaganyaan mission.
  • Currently operates from ISRO-HQ campus in Bengaluru
• National Remote Centre (NRSC):
  • NRSC is tasked with ground stations establishment, satellite data reception, and remote sensing applications.
  • Develops techniques for disaster management, geospatial services, and capacity building.
• ISRO Propulsion Complex (IPRC):
  • IPRC in Mahendragiri handles assembly, integration, and testing of liquid propulsion systems.
  • Qualifies and tests liquid engines, cryogenic engines, spacecraft engines, and thrusters.
• ISRO Telemetry, Tracking and Command Network (ISTRAC):
  • ISTRAC, based in Bengaluru, provides telemetry, tracking, command, and mission control services.
  • Operates the Ground Segment of NavIC.
• Master Control Facility (MCF):
  • MCF, in Hassan and Bhopal, manages On-Orbit Operations (OOP) and Launch & Early Orbit Phase (LEOP) operations.
• Indian Institute of Remote Sensing (IIRS):
  • IIRS in Dehradun focuses on building capacity in remote sensing and geoinformatics through education and training programs.
• National Atmospheric Research Laboratory (NARL):
  • NARL, at Gadanki near Tirupati, conducts cutting-edge research in atmospheric and space sciences.
• North Eastern-Space Applications Centre (NE-SAC):
  • NE-SAC, an autonomous organization, coordinates with State Remote Sensing Application Centres in the North Eastern region.
• Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology (IIST):
  • IIST in Thiruvananthapuram, established in 2007, offers high-quality education in space science and technology.
• Antrix Corporation Limited (ACL):
  • ACL in Bengaluru is a government-owned company facilitating the commercialization of DOS R&D activities.
• New Space India Limited (NSIL):
  • NSIL, a wholly-owned government undertaking, promotes space-related products and services globally.
• Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre (IN-SPACE):
  • IN-SPACE, headquartered in Ahmedabad, regulates private enterprises’ space activities, fostering their participation in the Indian space sector.

Conclusion:

• In summary, India’s space journey began in 1962 with INCOSPAR, evolving into ISRO in 1969. DOS, formed in 1972, oversees ISRO’s policies.
• Key establishments like VSSC, URSC, and SAC contribute to diverse space applications.
• The nation’s strides include human spaceflight aspirations with HSFC and global outreach through ACL, NSIL, and IN-SPACE, marking India’s significant presence in the space exploration arena.
  

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5. ROAD INFRASTRUCTURE GETTING SMARTER.

Indian Road Infrastructure Overview:

• India has the second-longest road network globally, with a 3.64% Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) from 1991 to 2019.
• Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) focuses on rural all-weather roads, constituting over 70% of India’s total road length.

Organizational Innovations and Technologies:

• Delinking road development and direct employment led to capital-intensive, high-tech road construction.
• National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) formed in 1995, promoting efficiency in highway development.
• Introduction of Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) and State-Level Road Development Corporations.
• National Highways Development Project (NHDP) started in 1998, evolving into Bharatmala pariyojana in 2018.
• Viability Gap Funding (VGF) used to leverage PPPs in NHDP, mitigating risks.

Contracting Models and Asset Monetization:

• Introduction of Hybrid Annuity Model (HAM) and Toll, Operate, and Transfer (TOT) in addition to traditional models.
• Infrastructure Investment Trusts (InVIT) operationalized for asset monetization.
• Focus on expressways with about 5000 km operational and 9000 km under construction.
• New contracting models provide better risk allocation and financing options.

Focused Organizations and Technologies:

• Establishment of organizations like Indian Highways Management Company Limited (IHMCL) for electronic tolling.
• National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) for border state projects.
• National Highways Logistics Management Limited (NHLML) for Multi Modal Logistics Parks (MMLPs) and port connectivity.
• Emphasis on road-making technologies, technology transfer, and electronic toll collection (ETC).

Challenges in Road Infrastructure:

• Safety concerns: Lack of buffer lanes, inadequate crash barriers, poor-quality diversion roads during construction.
• Urban roads negligence: Low speeds, inadequate first/last mile connectivity, and issues with urban goods movement.
• Lane Kilometres versus Road Kilometres: Emphasis on measuring lane kilometres for accurate capacity assessment.
• PPP Coordination: Disputes between PPP players and authorities causing delays and inconvenience.

Conclusion:

• India’s road infrastructure has seen significant growth with innovative models and technologies.

Addressing safety concerns, urban road neglect, accurate capacity measurement, and improved PPP coordination are vital for sustained progress.

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6. RAIL INFRASTRUCTUR

Introduction:

For over 167 years, the Indian Railways have served as a powerful unifying force for the nation. From humble beginnings in 1853, with a modest 34-kilometer stretch from Mumbai to Thane, the network has grown into a vast behemoth. Today, it boasts 7,308 stations spread across a staggering 68,043 kilometres of track, connecting people and places like never before.

Infrastructure and Development:

The Indian Railways are not just about tracks and trains. They are a complex ecosystem supported by various entities:

• Central Public Sector Enterprises:12 CPSEs operate under the Ministry of Railways, contributing to diverse aspects of the railway system.
• Research and Development:The Research Design and Standards Organisation (RDSO) spearheads R&D efforts, recently achieving breakthroughs like balancing speed and controllability trials for the Vande Bharat Express and developing automation tool for Electronic Interlocking systems.

Financial Transformation:

A significant shift occurred in 2017 with the merger of the Railway Budget with the general Budget. This move brought railway affairs under greater scrutiny and facilitated a more comprehensive view of the government’s financial health. It also paves the way for better integration of transportation planning across highways, railways, and waterways.

Electrification: Powering Progress

Mission 100% Electrification is a game-changer, not just for the railways but for India’s entire energy sector. Electrification reduces dependence on crude oil imports, saves foreign exchange, and brings significant environmental benefits. Additionally, electric locomotives boast higher power, leading to increased average speeds and loadings for both freight and passenger trains.

Rail Tourism: Showcasing India’s Brilliance

The IR’s theme-based Tourist Circuit Trains, launched under the Bharat Gaurav Trains Policy, showcase India’s rich cultural heritage and historical wonders to the world. This initiative allows state governments, tourism corporations, and other service providers to curate unique travel experiences centered on diverse destinations.

National Rail Plan: Building for the Future

The National Rail Plan (NRP) for India-2030 envisions a “future-ready” railway system capable of catering to growing demand until 2050.

Its key objectives include:

• Increasing the modal share of railways in freight to 45%.
• Reducing freight transit time significantly by raising the average speed of freight trains to 50 kmph.
• Identifying new Dedicated Freight Corridors and High-Speed Rail Corridors.
• Assessing locomotive requirements for 100% electrification and increased freight modal share.

Vande Bharat Express: A Testament to Make in India

The Vande Bharat Express, India’s first indigenous semi-high-speed train, stands as a shining example of the “Make in India” initiative’s success. Equipped with world-class amenities and capable of achieving high speeds, these trains reduce journey times by 25% to 45%, transforming passenger travel experiences.

Conclusion

The Indian Railways are not merely a means of transportation; they are a testament to India’s progress, ingenuity, and unwavering spirit of unity. As the network continues to evolve and modernize, it promises to connect not just people and places but also dreams and aspirations, propelling India towards a brighter future.

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 7. INDIA’S G20 PRESIDENCY

New Era in International Relations:

• The 18th G20 Summit under India’s presidency marked a turning point,reflecting a proactive and engaged approach to global affairs.
• The theme,“Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” (The world is one family), showcased India’s commitment to inclusivity and collaborative development.
• Global Biofuel Alliance:19 countries and 12 organizations joined forces to promote sustainable energy solutions, benefiting farmers and overall development.
• G21:Inclusion of the African Union as a permanent member signifies India’s focus on strengthening partnerships with the Global South.

IMEC Corridor: Boosting Trade and Connectivity:

• The India-Middle East-EU Corridor aims to revive the ancient Spice Route,driving economic growth and cultural exchange.
• Bilateral trade with key countries along the route,like UAE, Israel, and Saudi Arabia, shows immense potential.

New India Mantra: Reform, Perform, Transform:

Vikasit Bharat (Developed India) is taking shape through various initiatives:

• MUDRA Yojana:20 lakh crore loans disbursed, creating 8 crore new entrepreneurs.
• Jan Aushadhi Kendras: Savings of Rs.20,000 crore through affordable medicines.
• Improved Ease of Doing Business:India becomes the 3rd largest startup ecosystem.
• One Rank One Pension:70,000 crore allocated to support veteran soldiers.
• Lifting 13.5 crore people out of poverty,strengthening the neo-middle class.
• Increased central government devolution to states,reflecting commitment to cooperative federalism.
• Housing initiatives:Over 4 crore houses sanctioned under PM Awas Yojana, with increased spending.
• Increased local development and improved rural connectivity through programs like Jal Jeevan Mission.

77th Independence Day Resolutions:

• Expanding Jan Aushadhi Kendras for affordable medicines.
• Skill development for 2 crore rural women entrepreneurs through “Lakhpati Didi.”
• Agri-drones for 15,000 women Self-Help Groups.
• Vishwakarma Yojana: Supporting 18 traditional trades.

Conclusion:

India’s leadership at the G20 summit and its domestic development initiatives demonstrate a dynamic and forward-looking approach. By prioritizing sustainable development, inclusivity, and economic growth, India is on a path to become a leading global player.

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 8. UNITY MALLS

Introduction:

• Government Initiative: Unity Malls, a unique initiative by the Government of India, poised to play pivotal roles in economic development, recreation, tourism, and celebrating cultural heritage.

Unity Mall in Budget Speech:

• Budget Announcement: Union Finance Minister unveiled Unity Malls in the Budget Speech for fiscal year 2023-24.
• Strategic Locations: Malls to be strategically located, preferably in State capitals or financial/tourism centers, giving autonomy to States in site selection.
• Guidelines Issued: The Department of Expenditure in the Ministry of Finance issued comprehensive guidelines to States for Unity Mall construction.

Purpose behind the Unity Mall:

• Infrastructure Development: Integral to the government’s commitment to advancing infrastructure development and stimulating capital investment within the States.
• National Unity and Initiatives: Designed to foster national unity, align with ‘Make in India’ and ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat,’ provide a platform for local artisans, generate employment, promote skill development, celebrate local cuisine, and boost tourism.

ODOP Initiative:

• Local Manufacturing Focus: One District One Product (ODOP) initiative focuses on local manufacturing, job creation, economic equality, and regional growth.
• Unique Products: Identifies and promotes over 1100 unique products nationwide.

Geographical Indication (GI):

• Product Assurance: GI signifies the specific country or place of origin for a product, assuring quality and unique characteristics associated with its origin.

Scheme for Special Assistance to States:

• Introduced in 2020-21: Aims to stimulate capital expenditures by State governments, recognizing resource limitations due to the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic.
• Objectives: Harnesses the multiplier effect of capital expenditure, boosts future productive capacity, and fosters higher economic growth.
• Interest-Free Loans: States receive interest-free loans repayable after 50 years, not counting towards annual borrowing ceilings.
• 2023-24 Allocation: Rs 1.3 lakh crore allocation with Rs 5,000 crore earmarked for Unity Malls construction.
• Funding Distribution: Allocated to States based on the number of districts, requiring States to provide free land and allowing additional budget allocation.

This initiative converges economic development, cultural preservation, and regional empowerment, showcasing the government’s commitment to inclusive growth.

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9. AGRI INFRASTRUCTURE.

Overview of Agricultural Transformation in India

Agricultural Evolution: 1950s-1960s to Present

• In the 1950s and 1960s, India faced food shortages and deficits, prompting the ‘Green Revolution’ to introduce high-yielding varieties of wheat and rice.
• India, once a food-deficit country, is now a surplus-generating and leading exporter, particularly in rice and wheat.

Covid-19 and Food Security

• The Covid-19 pandemic posed challenges to global food security. In response, the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Ann Yojana (PMGKAY) doubled food entitlement from 5 kg to 10 kg per person per month for 80 crore people under NFSA from April 2020 to December 2022.

Agricultural Production Trends

• Food grain production increased from 51 MT in 1950-51 to over 330 MT in 2022-23.
• Millet cultivation received impetus, with the United Nations declaring 2023 the ‘International Year of Millets.’
• Despite being the largest producer and consumer of pulses, per capita availability decreased from 22.1 kg in 1951 to 16.4 kg in 2022. Government measures aim for self-sufficiency.
• Edible oil dependency was 55% in 2022-23. Initiatives like National Food Security Mission-Oilseeds (NFSM-OS) and National Mission on Edible Oil – Oil Palm (NMEO-OP) aim for self-reliance.

Fruits and Vegetables

• Production increased to 320 million tonnes in 2022-23, driven by rising per capita income.
• Challenges include perishability, seasonality, and price volatility. The National Agriculture Infra Financing Facility aims to address infrastructure issues.

Cotton and Sugarcane

• India, a leading cotton and sugarcane producer, faces challenges like pest resistance and water-intensive cultivation.
• Initiatives like Bt cotton adoption and ethanol-blending programs aim to address challenges and ensure adequate price recovery for farmers.

Agricultural Resources and Inputs

• Net sown area was 139.90 million hectares in 2019-20, with the net irrigated area at 53.39%.
• Fertilizer application increased to 140 kg per ha in 2019-20. Government subsidies, nutrient-based schemes, neem-coated urea, and nano urea aim for sustainable use.
• Groundwater irrigation, predominant at 63%, faces sustainability challenges. ‘More Crop Per Drop’ promotes sustainable water use.

Price Policy, Market, and Other Support

• Minimum Support Prices (MSP) for 23 commodities is fixed annually. Pulses and oilseeds are procured at MSP under the Price Support Scheme.
• The National Agricultural Market (e-NAM) facilitates online trading of 203 commodities, providing farmers with better prices.
• Digital Public Infrastructure, including Agristack and Krishi Decision Support System, uses space technology and AI to support farmers in crop planning, health, access to inputs, credit, insurance, and market intelligence.
• Government schemes like National Mission for Sustainable Agriculture (NMSA) and National Innovations in Climate Resilient Agriculture (NICRA) address climate change challenges in agriculture.
  

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10. G20: GLOBAL STARTUP ECOSYSTEM.

 G20 Overview

• The G20 comprises 19 countries and the European Union, representing nearly two-thirds of the global population, 75% of global trade, and 85% of the world’s GDP.
• Its constitution is based on guiding principles and practices, with a governance structure of rotating presidencies.

India’s G20 Presidency

• India’s G20 presidency theme is ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam,’ emphasizing unity, fraternity, and harmony, reflecting in the LIFE initiative.
• Significant strides were made in accelerating progress on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), reaffirming commitment to the 2030 Agenda.

Governance Mechanism and Working Groups

• India holds the G20 presidency for 2023, focusing on six thematic priorities, including green development, climate finance, and technological transformation.
• The troika system involves a rotating chair of three-member countries, with over 200 events leading up to the Leaders’ Summit in September 2023.

Finance Track and Sherpa Track

• The Finance Track focuses on global economic growth, financial regulation, and international tax matters.
• The Sherpa Track, through working groups, advances the agenda in finance, trade, agriculture, anti-corruption, health, tourism, and women empowerment.

Engagement Groups

• Official engagement groups include Business20, Civil20, Labour20, Parliament20, Science20, Startup20, Think20, Urban20, SA120, Women20, and Youth20.
• Startup20, initiated under the Indian G20 Presidency, aims to harmonize the global startup ecosystem.

Startup20 Engagement Group

• Startup20 has five task forces: Foundation, Alliance, Finance, Inclusion, and Sustainability.
• Action points include creating a global startup definition framework, diversifying global capital access, emphasizing inclusion, identifying and scaling global startups, and establishing a networked institution.

Significance of Startup20

• The global startup industry, valued at $3 trillion, is experiencing rapid growth, with India as the world’s third-largest startup ecosystem.
• India positions itself as a global hub for startups, proposing a joint annual investment of $1 trillion by G20 nations in the global startup ecosystem by 2030.

Outcome and Conclusion

• Five major action points aim to build the global startup ecosystem, aligned with the task forces’ objectives.
• The G20’s evolution from a crisis management committee to a premier forum for economic growth and global stability is highlighted during India’s presidency.
  

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 11. PM GATISHAKTI NATIONAL MASTER PLAN.

PM GatiShakti: Transforming India’s Infrastructure Landscape.

Background and Objectives

• The goal of achieving Atmanirbharta and a US $5 trillion economy by 2025 necessitates the creation of multimodal and last-mile connectivity infrastructure across India.
• This infrastructure development aims to ensure a modal mix of transportation, reduce logistics costs, enhance export competitiveness, and stimulate higher investments, economic growth, and employment generation.

PM GatiShakti Initiative

• Launched in October 2021, PM GatiShakti adopts a whole-of-government approach and cooperative federalism to transform India’s infrastructural landscape.
• The primary objective is to improve multimodal connectivity, enhance logistics efficiency, and address critical infrastructure gaps for seamless movement of people, goods, and services in the country.

Institutional Framework and Oversight

• PM GatiShakti brings together 27 Central Government Ministries under a single institutional framework.
• An Empowered Group of Secretaries (EGOS) chaired by the Cabinet Secretary oversees the implementation of PM GatiShakti.
• The EGOS is the apex body, involving 23 infrastructure and user ministries of the Government of India.
• An integrated multimodal Network Planning Group (NPG) has been operationalized, comprising representatives from eight infrastructure ministries, each led by the head of its Network Planning Division.

Project Identification and Evaluation

• Within the single institutional structure, PM GatiShakti has identified and evaluated 81 High Impact Projects, 54 NPG Projects, and 197 Critical Infrastructure Gaps.
• This inclusive approach involves every concerned Central Ministry/Department, ensuring comprehensive planning and execution.

Technology-backed Infrastructure Development

• The PM GatiShakti National Master Plan (NMP) is a technology-backed     infrastructure development platform.
• Developed by BISAG-N, the platform integrates GIS-based data layers of infrastructure, geographic features, and demography, along with various decision support systems.
• The platform facilitates integrated planning, synchronized implementation, and project monitoring.

Enhancing Connectivity across Modes

• PM GatiShakti focuses on boosting multimodal connectivity across highways, railways, ports, airports, logistics infrastructure, mass urban transportation, and inland waterways.
• The technology-backed platform contributes to industrial productivity enhancement and aligns with green logistics and clean energy goals.

Conclusion

• PM GatiShakti emerges as a comprehensive initiative, aligning various ministries and departments under a single framework, utilizing technology for efficient planning and execution, and addressing critical infrastructure gaps.