In a significant move to enhance spatial planning capabilities at the grassroots level, the Ministry of Panchayati Raj has introduced a powerful Geographic Information System (GIS) application known as ‘Gram Manchitra’ accessible at https://grammanchitra.gov.in. This innovative application aims to empower Gram Panchayats by leveraging geo-spatial technology for efficient planning and development.
Gram Manchitra serves as a unified Geo-Spatial platform, offering a comprehensive visualization of developmental initiatives across various sectors. The application facilitates the Gram Panchayat Development Plan (GPDP) by providing decision support through advanced geo-spatial tools. This strategic approach is expected to streamline the planning process and improve the overall execution of development projects.
In addition to Gram Manchitra, the Ministry has also launched "mActionSoft," a mobile-based solution designed to capture photos with geo-tags, including GPS coordinates, for projects with tangible outcomes. Geo-tagging occurs at three critical stages: before the commencement of work, during the project's execution, and upon its completion.
This meticulous documentation creates a valuable repository of information related to natural resource management, water harvesting, sanitation, agriculture, drought-proofing, and infrastructure such as check dams and irrigation channels.
One of the notable features of mActionSoft is its integration with Gram Manchitra. Assets geo-tagged through the mobile application become instantly accessible on Gram Manchitra, enhancing the platform's capabilities for visualizing diverse developmental works undertaken by Gram Panchayats.
Furthermore, the assets funded under the Finance Commission are systematically geotagged with photographs by the respective Panchayats. The GIS data of these assets can be seamlessly visualized on the Gram Manchitra application, providing stakeholders with a holistic perspective of the spatial distribution of projects within the Panchayat.
Gram Manchitra offers a range of planning tools that leverage GIS technology to assist Gram Panchayat officials in formulating realistic and achievable development plans. These tools include features for identifying potential development sites, tracking assets, estimating project costs, and assessing the overall impact of projects.
By integrating technology and spatial data, Gram Manchitra is poised to revolutionize the planning process at the grassroots level, fostering sustainable and well-informed development initiatives.
