Policy Commission Calls for Integrated Spatial Planning in Panchayats

During the September 28, 2026 workshop, NITI Aayog member Dr. R. Balasubramanyam urged Panchayats to adopt an integrated spatial planning perspective instead of fragmented, sector‑wise approaches. He highlighted the importance of mapping human capital, social capital and local economic clusters to uncover untapped opportunities. The workshop detailed how GIS, geospatial data, village master plans and digital dashboards can provide a clearer picture of resource availability, infrastructural shortages and growth corridors. Linking these insights with the Gram Panchayat Development Plan, e‑GramSwaraj and the Panchayat Advancement Index can enable evidence‑based, synchronized development initiatives. Participants also examined the constitutional basis of Panchayati Raj, the 73rd amendment, and the need for clarified functions, increased financial allocations, self‑generated revenue streams, technical assistance and more active District Planning Committees.