India presents PM Gatishakti at ADB conference

India played a prominent role at the '2023 Regional Cooperation and Integration Conference,' organised by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) in Tbilisi, Georgia, from September 5 to 7. The conference featured participation from over 30 member countries, ADB officials, and representatives from development partner agencies and regional cooperation organisations.Led by Sumita Dawra, Special Secretary (Logistics) of the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, the Indian delegation presented the transformative PM Gatishakti National Master Plan. This 'Made in India' initiative offers a comprehensive approach to integrated planning for multimodal infrastructure connectivity, aiming to boost logistics efficiency and socio-economic development.The conference's main goals included exploring ways to integrate spatial transformation and area-centric approaches into Economic Corridor Development (ECD) for enhanced regional cooperation. Additionally, it aimed to share insights on applying the ECD framework and operational guidelines for investable projects.Dawra stressed that PM Gatishakti goes beyond infrastructure connectivity, focusing on socio-economic area-based development as part of regional connectivity. She highlighted the Indian government's targeted infrastructure investments, adoption of advanced technologies, and their positive impact on Ease of Doing Business and Ease of Living.PM Gatishakti National Master Plan relies on GIS data and offers over 1400 data layers and 50+ tools. It provides visual representations of trunk and utility infrastructure, land use, soil quality, tourism sites, and more, enabling data-driven decision-making. A notable feature is its area-based holistic development approach, ensuring that connectivity infrastructure aligns with manufacturing, logistics, and social sector institutions like schools and hospitals.PM Gatishakti has expanded India's multimodal corridors, enhancing regional connectivity and trade. It evaluated 100 projects worth Rs 5.9 trillion since its launch, proving its effectiveness in optimising infrastructure development and reducing investment risks.Dawra cited examples like the Indo-Nepal Haldia Access Controlled Corridor and the Regional Waterways Grid to showcase PM Gatishakti's impact on connectivity. The conference served as a platform for knowledge exchange, with India's innovative strategies at the forefront of regional integration and development.