National Workshop on Enhanced Gram Panchayat Spatial Development Plan Scheduled for Two Days

Advancing India’s goal of creating scientifically planned and self-sufficient Gram Panchayats, the Secretary of the Ministry of Panchayati Raj, Shri Vivek Bharadwaj, inaugurated a groundbreaking two-day National Workshop on Enhanced Gram Panchayat Spatial Development Plan. Themed “नवीनग्राम – Re-Imagining the Village,” the workshop took place at the Kushabhau Thakre International Convention Centre in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh. This initiative unites 19 partner institutes of planning and architecture, showcasing enhanced spatial plans for 36 Gram Panchayats across 14 states, marking a significant milestone in India’s rural spatial development efforts.

Key Objectives of the Workshop

During his keynote address, Shri Vivek Bharadwaj emphasized the need for spatial development plans to be realistic and sustainable. He highlighted the importance of empowering Gram Panchayats to achieve self-reliance, urging the inclusion of strategies that enhance their revenue generation. The workshop aims to create a model of village development that fosters self-sufficiency and innovation. Building on the success of a previous workshop held in February 2024, this event represents a significant advancement in the presentation of spatial development plans for 36 Gram Panchayats, creating a valuable knowledge repository for Panchayati Raj transformation. The initiative reflects a shift from traditional village development methods to scientifically designed spatial planning that integrates modern principles with governance structures.

Participation and Collaboration

The workshop attracted a diverse group of participants, including elected representatives from Panchayati Raj Institutions, officials from various state departments, faculty and students from planning and architecture institutes, and government agency representatives. This comprehensive gathering of stakeholders focused on spatial planning underscores the collaborative effort required for effective rural development. The initiative encourages the adoption of Rural Area Development Plan Formulation and Implementation (RADPFI) Guidelines and seeks support from community members, financiers, policy planners, and technology providers. The emphasis on generating Own Sources of Revenue (OSR) and fostering Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) partnerships is crucial for creating financially sustainable Gram Panchayats capable of implementing their spatial development plans effectively.

Transforming Rural Development Paradigms

Inspired by the Prime Minister’s vision of Atmanirbhar Gram Panchayats, this initiative aims to revolutionize traditional village development paradigms through scientific spatial planning. Shri Vivek Bharadwaj encouraged Gram Pradhans to focus on village development that acknowledges their contributions rather than their positions. He stressed the need for coordinated actions among stakeholders to ensure effective implementation. Joint Secretary of the Ministry of Panchayati Raj, Shri Alok Prem Nagar, provided insights into spatial planning for rural areas, highlighting the Ministry’s strategic interventions and innovative approaches. His presentation underscored the critical role of spatial planning in fostering self-reliant rural communities.

Progress and Future Directions

The Principal Secretary of the Panchayati Raj Department in Madhya Pradesh, Ms. Dipali Rastogi, reported on the successful implementation of comprehensive spatial planning in Bilkisganj and Murvas Gram Panchayats. Five additional Gram Panchayats in the state are set to adopt similar approaches, with full support from the Panchayati Raj Department. Prof. Ajay Khare, Founder Director of the School of Planning and Architecture Bhopal, welcomed participants and outlined the current status and future roadmap of the spatial planning process. The inaugural day featured presentations from seven states, showcasing the nationwide momentum and diverse implementation strategies across various geographical contexts. The Gram Panchayat Spatial Development Plan – NAVEENGRAM – aims to position India as a global leader in rural spatial development planning, creating replicable models that ensure planned development reaches every corner of rural India while promoting inclusive growth and preserving heritage.

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