Analyzing “PM Gati Shakti” for Infrastructure Development in Mains
The PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan is a transformative initiative by the Indian government aimed at streamlining infrastructure development to boost economic growth and efficiency. For aspirants preparing for Infrastructure Development in Mains, understanding this policy is vital due to its multi-sectoral impact, comprehensive planning, and focus on economic modernization.
Introduction to PM Gati Shakti
Launched on October 13, 2021, the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan integrates multiple government departments to facilitate synchronized planning and implementation of infrastructure projects. It emphasizes data-driven decision-making to ensure faster approvals, cost efficiency, and timely execution.
The plan is a significant step in achieving the $5 trillion economy target and aligns with India’s objectives under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan (Self-Reliant India Mission).
Objectives of PM Gati Shakti
- Integrated Planning: Harmonizes efforts across ministries such as transport, railways, power, and telecommunications.
- Economic Growth: Reduces logistics costs and enhances supply chain efficiency, contributing to GDP growth.
- Job Creation: Promotes employment opportunities by accelerating infrastructure projects.
- Sustainability: Encourages the use of green technologies and renewable energy in infrastructure development.
Key Features of PM Gati Shakti
- Digital Platform:
- Provides real-time data for project coordination across ministries.
- Facilitates better visualization, analysis, and monitoring of projects.
- Focus on Multimodal Connectivity:
- Integrates roads, railways, ports, and airports for seamless logistics.
- Enhances connectivity for industrial corridors and economic zones.
- Comprehensive Mapping:
- Uses Geographic Information System (GIS) for mapping utilities, resources, and existing infrastructure.
- National Infrastructure Pipeline (NIP):
- Aligns with the NIP to ensure investments are targeted toward critical areas.
Relevance of PM Gati Shakti in Infrastructure Development in Mains
- Economic Competitiveness:
- Reducing logistics costs (currently 13-14% of GDP) aligns India with global benchmarks of 8-9%.
- Fostering Industrial Growth:
- Improves supply chain efficiency, benefiting industries like manufacturing, textiles, and agriculture.
- Boost to Exports:
- Enhances port connectivity, promoting trade and export competitiveness.
- Focus on Sustainability:
- Encourages the integration of renewable energy and sustainable practices in projects.
Implementation Framework
- Institutional Structure:
- An Empowered Group of Secretaries (EGoS) oversees implementation.
- State governments are encouraged to adopt the framework for localized development.
- Sectoral Targets:
- Expansion of road networks to 2 lakh km by 2024-25.
- Doubling railway cargo capacity to 1,600 million tons.
- Increasing the renewable energy capacity to 280 GW by 2030.
- Funding and Investments:
- Leverages private-public partnerships (PPPs) to attract investments.
- Allocates budgetary support for strategic projects under the NIP.
Challenges in Implementation
- Coordination Issues:
- Inter-ministerial and inter-state coordination remains a challenge despite the digital platform.
- Land Acquisition:
- Delays in land acquisition continue to hinder project timelines.
- Funding Constraints:
- While PPPs are encouraged, attracting consistent private sector investment can be challenging.
- Technology Gaps:
- Adoption of advanced technologies like GIS and drones requires skilled manpower and infrastructure.
Success Stories of PM Gati Shakti Infrastructure Development in Mains
- Dedicated Freight Corridors:
- Improved freight transportation efficiency, reducing time and costs.
- Eastern Peripheral Expressway:
- Enhanced road connectivity around Delhi, reducing urban congestion.
- Port Modernization:
- Upgraded facilities at ports like Mundra and Jawaharlal Nehru Port Trust (JNPT) for better logistics.
Preparation Tips for Infrastructure Development in Mains
- Understand the Framework:
- Study official documents and government reports from the Gati Shakti Portal and Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
- Refer to PIB for updates on milestones and achievements.
- Use Case Studies:
- Incorporate real-world examples like the Eastern Peripheral Expressway and freight corridors.
- Incorporate Data:
- Highlight statistics like logistics costs and sectoral targets to substantiate your answers.
- Connect to Other Schemes:
- Relate Gati Shakti to schemes like Bharatmala, Sagarmala, and the National Logistics Policy.
Inbound Links from Sleepy Classes
For a detailed understanding of Infrastructure Development in Mains, refer to Sleepy Classes’ current affairs modules and GS Paper 3 courses.
External Links for Further Reading
- Wikipedia: PM Gati Shakti
- PRS India for policy analysis.
- World Bank Logistics Performance Index for global comparisons.
- NIP Report for detailed sectoral insights.
Conclusion
The PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan represents a paradigm shift in how India approaches infrastructure development. By focusing on integrated planning, technological adoption, and sustainability, it aims to transform India’s economic landscape. For UPSC aspirants, Infrastructure Development in Mains offers a rich topic that combines governance, economic development, and innovation, making it a critical area for in-depth study and application.
