Secretary, Ministry of Panchayati Raj Inaugurates National Workshop on Gram Panchayat Spatial Development Plan

Bhopal: The Cross Learning Interactive National Workshop on Gram Panchayat Spatial Development Plan (GPSDP) was inaugurated by Secretary, Ministry of Panchayati Raj, Vivek Bharadwaj, in Bhopal today. The event witnessed the presence of Malay Shrivastava, Additional Chief Secretary, Department of Panchayat & Rural Development, Government of Madhya Pradesh, Alok Prem Nagar, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Panchayati Raj, and Prof. (Dr.) Kailasa Rao M, Director, School of Planning and Architecture, Bhopal.

During the inauguration, Secretary Vivek Bharadwaj highlighted the critical role of Gram Panchayats, partner institutions, and stakeholders in developing selected Gram Panchayats as Model Gram Panchayats, setting examples for others. Emphasizing the need for a well-thought-out spatial development plan, Shri Bharadwaj stressed its effective implementation with determination and dedication.

Vivek Bharadwaj underscored the importance of leveraging resources and mobilizing support for translating the vision of Gram Panchayat Spatial Development Plan into action. He encouraged systematic and synergistic interventions to address gaps in resource mobilization and ensure successful spatial planning at the grassroots level.

The Secretary called for a spatial approach, coordinated actions, and collaborative efforts among stakeholders to execute the spatial plan, ensuring sustainable development at the grassroots. Vivek Bharadwaj urged participants to commit earnestly to the plan’s implementation, fostering sustainable rural development.

Malay Shrivastava, Additional Chief Secretary, Government of Madhya Pradesh, called for the convergence of resources and collaborative efforts to implement the Spatial Development Plan in Gram Panchayats.

Joint Secretary, Ministry of Panchayati Raj, Alok Prem Nagar, presented on Spatial Planning for Rural Areas and the Way Forward, providing valuable insights into the workshop’s objectives and initiatives. He highlighted the need for spatial planning interventions and initiatives taken by the Ministry of Panchayati Raj.

Prof. (Dr.) Kailasa Rao M, Director, School of Planning and Architecture, Bhopal, welcomed the participants, sharing an overview of the current status and roadmap of the spatial planning process.

The National Workshop, organized by the Ministry of Panchayati Raj in collaboration with the School of Planning and Architecture, Bhopal, saw participation from delegates representing various State Departments of Panchayati Raj, planning and architecture institutes, industry experts, Smart City Mission leaders, financial institutions, and government agencies.

Presentations on spatial development plans in states like Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka, Odisha, Uttar Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Maharashtra, and West Bengal were made, exploring the best options for planning in rural areas. Discussions covered the use of GIS-based technology in Smart Cities and the implementation of Rural Area Development Plan Formulation and Implementation (RADPFI) guidelines.

The workshop aims to conclude with significant takeaways and learnings for Gram Panchayats and State-level institutes, contributing to long-term planning solutions for India’s villages.