PM Gati Shakti Scheme, Objective, Features, Key Achievements

The PM Gati Shakti Scheme is a major initiative by the Indian government to transform infrastructure development. It aims to bring different transportation and logistics projects under one plan to improve connectivity and reduce costs. By using advanced technology and better coordination among ministries, the PM Gati Shakti scheme helps in faster and more efficient infrastructure development.

PM Gati Shakti Scheme

Launched in 2021, the PM Gati Shakti Scheme, also called the National Master Plan for Multi-modal Connectivity, focuses on improving India’s transport network. This scheme integrates roads, railways, waterways, and airways into a single system, making transportation easier and faster.

The main aim is to reduce delays, cut costs, and improve supply chains. Sixteen ministries, including Railways, Highways, and Aviation, are working together to ensure seamless planning and execution of projects. By improving connectivity, this initiative will boost trade, attract investment, and strengthen India's position as a global economic hub.

Credit: NMP website

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PM Gati Shakti Objective

The PM Gati Shakti Scheme aims to reduce India's dependence on outdated transport systems and move towards a more modern and efficient infrastructure model. Its key objectives include:

• Ease of Living: By ensuring timely completion of roads, railways, and other infrastructure projects.

• Better Coordination: Bringing together different government departments to avoid delays and mismanagement.

• Cost Reduction: Lowering transport and logistics costs to make Indian products more competitive globally.

• Ease of Doing Business: Strengthening supply chains to support industries and businesses.

• Employment Generation: Creating job opportunities through large-scale infrastructure development.

Credit: PIB

PM Gati Shakti Features

The PM Gati Shakti Scheme brings key features that make it a major change in infrastructure development. Here are some of the important aspects:

• National Master Plan (NMP): This digital platform is designed to ensure coordinated execution and planning of infrastructure projects across various sectors. It integrates over 44 Central Ministries and 36 States/UTs.

• Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs): SOPs have been established for key infrastructure ministries to ensure data accuracy. This framework promotes accountability and streamlines the execution of projects.

• Data Management: The initiative has integrated 1,614 data layers, facilitating better decision-making based on comprehensive data analytics. This feature empowers planners and policymakers with the tools they need to make informed decisions.

• District Master Plans (DMPs): A DMP portal is in development to help local authorities plan effectively at the district level. This aims to improve infrastructure and identify gaps in service delivery.

• Inclusivity: PM Gati Shakti aims to enhance last-mile connectivity, benefiting rural and underserved areas. This will significantly impact economic activities, including trade and employment.

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Key Achievements of PM GatiShakti National Master Plan

Since its inception, the PM Gati Shakti Scheme has resulted in remarkable accomplishments. Here are some key achievements:

• Infrastructure Projects: 208 key projects worth ₹15.39 lakh crores align with Gati Shakti, driving large-scale infrastructure growth.

• Multi-modal Connectivity: The scheme enhances rail and road corridors, improving state-to-state connectivity.

• Disaster Management: Goa's flood management plan, developed using the NMP platform, highlights the scheme's versatility.

• Renewable Energy: A 13 GW renewable energy project from Leh to Kaithal optimized the 'Green Energy Corridor' for inter-state transmission using NMP.

• Skill Development: Gati Shakti's integration with skill development helps identify sites for new training institutes, matching education with regional needs. For instance, Department of School Education linked PM Shri Schools with local industries.

• Economic Growth: Improved project execution boosts economic activity across sectors, strengthening the economy.

Projects Under PM Gati Shakti

Here is a list of key projects under the PM Gati Shakti initiative:

1. Ayodhya Airport (Phase II): Expansion to accommodate 4,000 peak-hour passengers and six million annually by 2046-47.

2. Delhi-Panipat-Karnal Namo Bharat Project: Enhancing connectivity in Delhi-NCR and surrounding regions.

3. Ports and Shipping: 13 projects completed worth ₹4,423 crore across states like Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, and Odisha

4. Highway Projects: Infrastructure development in Goa, Meghalaya, and Assam.

5. Rail-over-Rail Bulb Line: Construction in Bihar for improved rail connectivity.

6. Urban Metro Transit Projects: Development in Bengaluru and Delhi/NCR regions

7. Economic Zones: Connectivity improvements for textile clusters, pharmaceutical hubs, defense corridors, industrial parks, fishing clusters, and agri-zones

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GatiShakti Sanchar Portal

Launched by the Ministry of Communications on May 16, 2022, the Gati Shakti Sanchar Portal streamlines Right of Way (RoW) approvals for telecom service providers. It integrates with relevant ministries to support the expansion of 4G services and lay the foundation for 5G rollout in both rural and urban areas.

By enhancing access to telecom infrastructure, the portal aids the government's efforts to bridge the digital divide. According to the latest status on the GatiShakti Sanchar Portal:

In conclusion, the PM Gati Shakti Scheme is a game-changer for India’s infrastructure sector. It integrates different transport and logistics projects for better efficiency, lower costs, and improved connectivity.

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