Context: Recently, the Union Minister of State for Panchayati Raj informed the Lok Sabha about the Gram Manchitra application.

Gram Manchitra Application

• About: The Ministry of Panchayati Raj initiated the Geographic Information System (GIS) application known as "Gram Manchitra."
• Features: This application empowers Gram Panchayats to conduct planning at the local level, utilizing geo-spatial technology for effective decision-making.
• Unified Geo-Spatial Platform: "Gram Manchitra" serves as a single, unified Geo-Spatial platform, enhancing the visualization of developmental works across various sectors. It aids in decision support for the Gram Panchayat Development Plan (GPDP).
• Mobile-Based Solution: The Ministry introduced mActionSoft, a mobile-based solution enabling the capture of photos with Geo-Tags (GPS Coordinates) for works with assets as an output.
• Geo-Tagging Process: Assets undergo geo-tagging in three stages—before the work begins, during the work, and upon completion. This establishes a comprehensive repository of information on various works and assets related to multiple sectors.
• Finance Commission Funds: Assets created under the finance commission funds are geo-tagged with photographs by the Panchayats, ensuring transparency and accountability in fund utilization.

Significance

• These tools play a crucial role in assisting Gram Panchayat officials in developing realistic and achievable development plans.
• They provide decision support for identifying potential project sites, tracking assets, estimating project costs, and assessing project impacts.