IITF 2024: In a notable milestone heralding the digital transformation of rural India, the Ministry of Panchayati Raj launched its pavilion at the 43rd India International Trade Fair (IITF), marking a pivotal step towards realizing the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047. Shri Vivek Bharadwaj, Secretary, Ministry of Panchayati Raj, inaugurated this technological marvel in the presence of senior officials of the Ministry including Dr. Bijaya Kumar Behera, Economic Advisor, and Shri Vikas Anand, Joint Secretary.
The state-of-the-art pavilion of the Ministry of Panchayati Raj, located at Hall 4, Stall No. 4G-12A in Bharat Mandapam, Pragati Maidan, New Delhi stands as a beacon of innovation, showcasing the seamless integration of Panchayati Raj system with next-generation digital solutions. During the inaugural ceremony, Shri Vivek Bharadwaj, highlighted how this pavilion serves as a vital bridge connecting urban citizens with the transformative journey of rural India, inviting everyone to witness the digital revolution reshaping grassroots governance.
The pavilion brings to life the future of rural administration through interactive digital displays, immersive 3D models, and virtual reality experiences. Visitors can explore groundbreaking initiatives like the Meri Panchayat App, which places the power of local governance directly in citizens’ hands through their smartphones. The e-Gram Swaraj platform, available in 22 Indian languages, demonstrates how digital tools are revolutionizing Panchayat planning and administration. Gram Manchitra leverages geospatial technology for enhanced participatory planning, weather forecasting, and integration with the PM-Surya Ghar solar scheme for rooftop capacity assessment, while Panchayat NIRNAY ensures transparency in rural governance by providing citizens direct access to Panchayat meeting minutes and Gram Sabha resolutions.
A highlight of the exhibition is the Smart Panchayat model, powered by solar energy and equipped with high-speed internet connectivity. Also, the co-location of Common Service Centres (CSCs) in Panchayat Bhawans further strengthens the accessibility of government services at the grassroots level. This model showcases how rural institutions are evolving into comprehensive service delivery centers, offering everything from telemedicine to digital financial services. The SVAMITVA Scheme’s implementation, featured prominently in the pavilion, illustrates how technology is modernizing rural property rights and creating new economic opportunities.
The Ministry of Panchayati Raj extends a warm invitation to all, to experience this showcase of rural transformation during the trade fair, continuing until 27th November, 2024. Visitors’ feedback and suggestions will play a crucial role in further refining and enhancing these digital initiatives, ensuring they truly serve the needs of the rural communities.
As India strides confidently towards its vision of becoming a developed nation by 2047, the MoPR pavilion represents a milestone in the Ministry’s mission to develop tech-enabled, transparent, and accountable Panchayati Raj Institutions. The convergence of digital technology and Panchayati Raj Institutions displayed here not only showcases the present achievements but also offers a compelling glimpse into the future where every Gram Panchayat in India becomes a self-reliant, digitally empowered hub of progress and prosperity. As India moves towards its vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, this exhibition serves as a powerful demonstration of how digital transformation at the grassroots level is paving the way for a more connected and prosperous rural India
