Context

• The Ministry of Panchayati Raj launched Geographic Information System (GIS) applications Gram Map and M-ActionSoft, with the aim of promoting spatial planning by Gram Panchayat.

Key Points

• This application facilitates and assists Gram Panchayats in planning at Gram Panchayat level using geospatial technology.
• It provides a single/integrated geospatial platform to improve planning of various developmental works to be undertaken in different areas and provide a decision support system for Gram Panchayat Development Plan (GPDP).

M-ActionSoft

• It is a mobile based solution designed to help capture photos with geo-tags (i.e. GPS coordinates).

Steps of Geo Tagging

• Geo-tagging of assets is done in three stages – (i) before the commencement of work (ii) during the work and (iii) on completion of the work.

 Benefit

• It will provide a wealth of information about all works and assets related to natural resource management, water harvesting, drought prevention, sanitation, agriculture, check dams and irrigation medium etc.
• Geo-tagged properties are available on Gram Manchitra using the M-ActionSoft application to enhance planning of various development works in Gram Panchayats.
• Properties constructed under Finance Commission funds are geo-tagged by the Panchayats with photographs of the properties.
• GIS datagram of geo-tagged properties on the Panchayat Manchitra can be viewed on the map application.
• Gram Manchitra provides several planning tools that enable Gram Panchayat officials to use GIS technology to develop realistic and practical development plans.
• These tools provide decision support systems in making development plans such as tools to identify potential sites for development projects, asset tracking, project cost estimation and project impact assessment, etc.

 Important Exam Facts

 Panchayati Raj in India

• Established – 24 April 1992
• Through the 73rd constitutional amendment
• Rural local self-government – three-tier system
• Note: Urban local bodies came into existence through the 74th Constitutional Amendment.