GatiShakti gets a fresh boost as PM Modi hails it as a game-changer for India’s infrastructure

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has lauded ‘GatiShakti,’ describing it as a transformative initiative poised to revolutionise India’s infrastructure. Speaking on the third anniversary of ‘GatiShaki’ PM Modi hailed its potential to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the country’s logistical network, thereby driving economic growth and development. The ‘GatiShakti initiative,’ introduced by the Central Government in 2021, aims to streamline and integrate various infrastructure projects across sectors, including roads, railways, ports and airports. The programmed seeks to bridge gaps in existing networks, eliminate bottlenecks and promote the use of advanced technology and data analytics in planning and execution. GatiShakti goes beyond traditional infrastructure planning, as it involves the coordination of multiple departments and incorporates feedback from state governments, private sector stakeholders and local communities. The initiative is expected to transform how infrastructure projects are conceived and executed, bringing about a paradigm shift in the country’s growth trajectory. By fostering seamless integration of various sectors and improving the synergy between different modes of transport, GatiShakti is set to play a pivotal role in accelerating India’s economic development.

By improving logistical efficiency, reducing costs and promoting seamless connectivity, the initiative can significantly bring down the cost of production. China’s rapid economic growth provides a valuable lesson for India. Over the past few decades, China has focused heavily on large-scale infrastructure development, including extensive networks of high-speed railways, highways and ports. This not only improved connectivity but also drastically lowered logistics costs, making it easier for businesses to thrive. Following a similar path, ‘GatiShakti’ can serve as a catalyst for India’s economic transformation, driving sustainable growth and helping the country achieve its ambition of becoming a $5 trillion economy.

While ‘GatiShakti’ promises to transform India’s infrastructure, several challenges may hinder its implementation. Key impediments include land acquisition issues, where delays and disputes over land ownership can stall projects. Regulatory bottlenecks also pose challenges, with complex approval processes across different ministries slowing down progress. Additionally, financing constraints may arise, as large-scale infrastructure projects require substantial investment and public-private partnerships.To overcome these hurdles, the government can implement policy reforms to streamline land acquisition and simplify approval procedures, reducing bureaucratic delays. Incentivising private investment through tax benefits and offering risk-sharing models can attract more participation from the private sector. GatiShakti is the need of the hour and must be prioritised to realise India’s growth potential.