The Impressive TimesNew Delhi, March 12, 2024: In a pioneering move towards technological innovation in rural development, the Ministry of Rural Development (MoRD) has formalized a collaboration with the Indian Institute of Technology Delhi (IIT Delhi) through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The MoU, signed by Shri Amit Kataria, Joint Secretary, MoRD, and Prof. Manabendra Saharia, IIT Delhi, aims to facilitate the application of geospatial technology and artificial intelligence (AI) in rural development initiatives.
The signing ceremony, attended by Secretary, MoRD Shri Shailesh Kumar Singh and Director, IIT Delhi Prof. Rangan Banerjee, marked the commencement of a significant partnership. Leading discussions on the collaboration were Director, MGNREGA Ms. Aditi Singh, Dean R&D, IIT Delhi Prof. Naresh Bhatnagar, and Head, Dept of Civil Engineering Prof. Vasant Matsagar.
At the core of this partnership lies the ambitious project “BhuPRAHARI,” designed to harness ground and space-based geospatial technologies, coupled with AI, for monitoring and managing assets under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA). The HydroSense lab, led by Prof. Manabendra Saharia, will spearhead the execution of this transformative initiative.
Officials from both MoRD and IIT Delhi emphasized the significance of this collaboration in enhancing the operational efficiency and transparency of MGNREGA projects. By integrating cutting-edge technologies, the initiative aims to modernize the planning, monitoring, and execution of rural development projects, ensuring accountability and optimizing resource allocation.
In his address, Prof. Rangan Banerjee highlighted IIT Delhi’s commitment to applying scientific research and technological innovations for social good. The MoU represents the initiation of a collaborative effort to explore and apply technological solutions to the challenges faced by rural communities. This partnership sets a precedent for how academic institutions and government bodies can work together to foster innovation and drive socio-economic progress.
The BhuPRAHARI project is set to commence immediately, with both MoRD and IIT Delhi eager to translate this vision into reality, marking a transformative step towards leveraging technology for rural development.
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