With a burgeoning consumer market, technology sector, and an emphasis on infrastructure development, India has attracted significant investment and attention on the global stage, solidifying its position as an economic powerhouse in the 21st century. In a press release by EY, a staggering projection is made for India's economic future. By 2047, India's GDP is expected to soar to an impressive $25 trillion, underpinned by a robust growth rate of 5%. Undoubtedly, India's remarkable economic expansion has positioned it as one of the fastest-growing economies on the international stage.
India's logistics and supply chain management sector is on a continuous path of enhancement, boosted by consistent government backing and proactive initiatives. Nevertheless, it grapples with persistent challenges that indicate room for improvement. Among the significant initiatives aimed at addressing these issues, PM Gati Shakti stands out as a prominent solution. PM Gati Shakti is an ambitious infrastructure development initiative launched by the Government of India. It aims to enhance transportation and logistics infrastructure across the country.
Technology plays a pivotal role in enhancing the logistics sector, promising economic enhancement through improved connectivity and the seamless flow of goods. At the heart of the Gati Shakti initiative lies a cutting-edge digital platform, hinged on the Geographic Information System (GIS) developed by BISAG-N. This innovative platform offers a suite of spatial planning tools, harnessing imagery sourced from the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). Established in 2003, BISAG-N stands as a pioneering force, spearheading the development and integration of a diverse array of technologies, including remote sensing, image processing, photogrammetry, cartography, GIS, Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS), artificial intelligence (AI), and mobile applications, all within a highly adaptable modular framework. This master plan represents a revolutionary approach designed to bolster economic growth, expedite infrastructure development, and ensure the timely completion of projects.
Its overarching objective is to foster synergy among various ministries and departments within the Government of India, culminating in the establishment of a comprehensive digital platform for project planning. For instance, it will facilitate seamless coordination among the ministries responsible for Indian Roadways, Indian Railways, Indian Airways, and Indian Waterways, streamlining the movement of goods. Furthermore, it will introduce transparency into the monitoring of ongoing projects and disseminate information about upcoming connectivity initiatives to the wider community.
PM Gati Shakti, fortified by comprehensive support, policy formulation, and an integrated approach, is poised to chart a transformative path for sectoral enhancement while concurrently curbing costs. As a pivotal facet of this initiative, each department will establish a dedicated logistics division, equipped with empowered decision-making capabilities. This strategic setup will prove instrumental in expediting private sector involvement by enabling efficient clearance processes during the preparation of detailed project reports (DPRs).
PM Gati Shakti is committed to fostering authentic public-private partnerships across the entire spectrum of infrastructure creation, encompassing planning, development, and eventual implementation. Recognizing the pivotal role of infrastructure in catalysing growth, this initiative is propelling the nation towards a prominent position as a transportation hub. The institutionalisation of comprehensive planning methodologies for stakeholders engaged in infrastructure projects is instrumental in resolving pertinent issues and ensuring seamless progress.
Efficient logistics management systems play a critical role in the success of e-commerce. PM Gati Shakti can provide the necessary infrastructure to support the growth of online retail by ensuring faster and more reliable deliveries. Enhanced logistics infrastructure can boost India's export capabilities by making it easier to move goods to ports and airports, promoting international trade. The development of infrastructure and logistics hubs under PM Gati Shakti can generate employment opportunities, benefiting both skilled and unskilled labour in the logistics sector.
The PM GatiShakti portal has an extensive database comprising over 1,600 data layers, covering a wide array of subjects including land, forests, mines, and existing infrastructure. Its principal goal is to break down organisational barriers, facilitating a more thorough and unified method for the planning and execution of projects. This approach is geared towards addressing the intricate challenges associated with multi-modal connectivities.
In summary, PM Gati Shakti has the potential to transform the logistics and supply chain management industry in India by improving connectivity, reducing costs, and promoting efficiency, ultimately contributing to the country's economic growth and competitiveness. The plan stands as a pivotal force poised to revolutionise the logistics sector.