(a) whether the Government propose to utilize Geographical Information System/ Geo-positional system in the rural development and planning:
(b) if so, whether attempts have been made for mapping India`s comparative rural advantages, capabilities and needs;
(c) if so, the details thereof ; and
(d) if not, the reasons therefor?
MINISTER OF STATE FOR SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY ( SHRI BACHI SINGH RAWAT)
(a) Yes, Sir.
(b) & (c) Geographical Information System/ Geo-positional system techniques have many applications for rural communities to be used as decision support systems for better management of their resources, land use planning, agriculture planning, rural infrastructure location etc. After assessing the information need of integrated rural development planning at district level, an indigenous Geographical Information System - Geo-Referenced Area Management (GRAM++) package has been developed and demonstrated in pilot districts of Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka and West Bengal. Use of other technologies like Air-borne Laser Topographic Mapping (ALTM) and Synthetic Aparture Radar (SAR) Interferometry are being explored. All these efforts will help rural communities to map their comparative advantages, capabilities and needs.
(d) Does not arise.