National Workshop on Gram Panchayat Spatial Development Plan (GPSDP) to Commence in Bhopal

Bhopal: In a significant move towards promoting holistic development at the grassroots level, the Ministry of Panchayati Raj, in collaboration with the School of Planning and Architecture, Bhopal, is set to inaugurate a two-day National Workshop on Gram Panchayat Spatial Development Plan (GPSDP) on 22nd February 2024 in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh. Vivek Bharadwaj, Secretary, Ministry of Panchayati Raj, will lead the inaugural ceremony.

The workshop aims to facilitate cross-learning and interactive discussions on the transformative GPSDP initiative, bringing together key stakeholders, industry experts, government agencies, and representatives from 17 partner specialized agencies and institutions of national repute. Elected representatives and functionaries from 34 Gram Panchayats across 14 states, for which GPSDPs have been meticulously prepared, will also contribute to the discussions.

The two-day event will feature presentations by 17 partner Planning and Architecture Colleges on the GPSDPs for 34 Gram Panchayats. State Town and Country Planning (T&CP) Departments will also be part of the discussions, providing insights into statutory provisions for rural area spatial planning and their role in the preparation and implementation of GPSDPs.

The Ministry of Panchayati Raj underscores the importance of a spatial approach to rural planning, recognizing its significance for comprehensive development. The workshop serves as a crucial platform for discussing roadmaps, master plans, and strategies essential for the holistic development of Gram Panchayats. The Rural Area Development Plan Formulation and Implementation (RADPFI) Guidelines, 2021, introduced by the Ministry, are expected to guide the formulation and execution of GPSDPs, fostering sustainable progress across rural landscapes.

The workshop will address various aspects of inclusive and sustainable development in rural areas, including infrastructure development, disaster management, waste management, and skill development. With a focus on cross-learning opportunities, the event aims to garner support and enlist views from stakeholders for the adoption of spatial planning to enhance the quality of life in rural habitats.

The National Workshop on GPSDP is poised to catalyze positive transformation and sustainable development across Gram Panchayats nationwide, aligning with the overarching vision of the Ministry of Panchayati Raj.