The Ministry of Panchayati Raj (MoPR) has been awarded the Bronze Medal under the Empowering India category for Excellence in Display at the 43rd India International Trade Fair (IITF 2024). The award was presented to Dr. Bijaya Kumar Behera, Economic Adviser to the MoPR, during the award ceremony held by the India Trade Promotion Organization (ITPO).
The MoPR pavilion, themed ‘Panchayat@ViksitBharat2047’, was a major attraction at the fair, offering a comprehensive view of the digital transformation taking place in rural India. The exhibition highlighted India’s ambitious journey towards development by 2047. It featured innovative technological displays, including interactive digital interfaces, immersive 3D models, and virtual reality experiences. Visitors were particularly impressed by the Meri Panchayat App, the e-GramSwaraj platform (available in 22 languages), and Gram Manchitra, which employs advanced geospatial technology.
Key highlights of the pavilion included:
- SVAMITVA Scheme: Showcasing the modernization of rural property rights, enhancing transparency and efficiency in rural land administration.
- Panchayat NIRNAY: Ensuring governance transparency and facilitating decision-making at the grassroots level.
- Smart Panchayat Model: A solar-powered, tech-enabled model with high-speed internet connectivity aimed at improving rural governance.
The pavilion witnessed a remarkable daily footfall of 15,000 to 20,000 visitors, with a particularly high level of engagement from young people. The “Quest for Panchayat” quiz and the selfie spot became popular attractions, with over 400 visitors winning T-shirts as prizes.
On 25th November 2024, Prof. S. P. Singh Baghel, Union Minister of State for the Ministry of Panchayati Raj, visited the pavilion. He emphasized the significance of government schemes, digital tools, and the role of citizens in utilizing the services offered at Panchayat Bhawan and Common Service Centers.
Inaugurated on 14th November 2024 by Shri Vivek Bharadwaj, Secretary, Ministry of Panchayati Raj, the pavilion effectively communicated MoPR’s vision of creating technologically advanced, transparent, and accountable Panchayati Raj Institutions. This vision marks a significant step forward in the transformation of rural local self-governance and rural development in India.