Gati Shakti Maps Sharing and Deep Tech Start-Ups

The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) is currently exploring methods for sharing Gati Shakti maps and data with the private sector. This initiative aligns with commitments made in the Budget 2026. DPIIT Secretary Amardeep Singh Bhatia emphasised the importance of protecting sensitive data during this process. Discussions are ongoing regarding a fund for deep tech start-ups, and efforts are underway to decriminalise over 100 provisions under the upcoming Jan Vishwas Bill 2.0.

Gati Shakti Initiative

The Gati Shakti initiative aims to enhance infrastructure planning and execution. It provides a digital platform for mapping and data sharing. The government intends to facilitate public-private partnerships (PPPs) by allowing the private sector access to vital data. This access is crucial for effective project planning and execution.

Data Sharing Options

DPIIT is considering several options for sharing Gati Shakti data. One option is allowing private sector stakeholders to download necessary data directly. Another is providing access to the platform for real-time information retrieval. The most secure method appears to be extracting data based on specific requests. This approach ensures that sensitive information remains protected.

Deep Tech Start-Ups Fund

The Budget 2026 announced a ₹10,000 crore fund for deep tech start-ups. This fund aims to support innovations in manufacturing and high-technology sectors. It focuses on providing long-term capital to enable growth and scalability. DPIIT is consulting stakeholders to establish the fund’s structure and operational guidelines.

Jan Vishwas Bill 2.0

The Jan Vishwas Bill 2.0 seeks to decriminalise over 100 provisions in various laws. This initiative builds on the success of the first edition, which decriminalised 183 provisions across 42 Acts. The aim is to reduce regulatory burdens on businesses and encourage a more conducive environment for entrepreneurship.

Stakeholder Engagement

Continuous engagement with stakeholders is vital for these initiatives. The government is actively consulting industry leaders and experts to refine the Gati Shakti data sharing methods and the deep tech start-up fund. This collaborative approach ensures that the needs of the private sector are adequately addressed.

Future Guidelines

Detailed guidelines for data sharing and the deep tech fund are expected soon. DPIIT Secretary Bhatia expressed optimism about these developments. The guidelines will clarify the processes and expectations for all involved parties.

Impact on Industry

These initiatives are poised to impact the Indian industrial landscape. By facilitating data access and funding for innovative start-ups, the government aims to drive growth and technological advancement. This aligns with broader goals of enhancing competitiveness and encouraging sustainable development.

Regulatory Framework

The regulatory framework surrounding these initiatives is evolving. With the decriminalisation of provisions, businesses can operate with reduced fear of legal repercussions. This change is expected to encourage more entrepreneurial ventures and innovation.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Critically analyse the significance of the Gati Shakti initiative in enhancing infrastructure development in India.
2. Estimate the potential impact of the deep tech start-ups fund on India’s technological landscape.
3. Point out the key features of the Jan Vishwas Bill 2.0 and its implications for businesses.
4. What are the challenges faced in implementing public-private partnerships in infrastructure projects? Discuss with suitable examples.

Answer Hints:

1. Critically analyse the significance of the Gati Shakti initiative in enhancing infrastructure development in India.

1. Gati Shakti aims to streamline infrastructure planning through a digital platform for data sharing.
2. It promotes public-private partnerships (PPPs) by providing private sectors access to crucial data.
3. The initiative enhances coordination among various ministries for better project execution.
4. It focuses on reducing bottlenecks in project timelines, leading to faster infrastructure development.
5. Gati Shakti aligns with national goals of economic growth and sustainable development.

2. Estimate the potential impact of the deep tech start-ups fund on India’s technological landscape.

1. The ₹10,000 crore fund targets high-tech sectors, encouraging innovation and scalability.
2. It addresses funding gaps for deep tech start-ups, enabling long-term project viability.
3. By supporting disruptive technologies, it can drive advancements in manufacturing and IT sectors.
4. The fund encourages entrepreneurship and attracts global investments in India’s tech ecosystem.
5. It aims to position India as a leader in deep tech innovations on the global stage.

3. Point out the key features of the Jan Vishwas Bill 2.0 and its implications for businesses.

1. Jan Vishwas Bill 2.0 seeks to decriminalise over 100 provisions across various laws.
2. It builds on the previous bill, aiming to reduce regulatory burdens on businesses.
3. The bill enhances the ease of doing business, promoting a more favorable entrepreneurial environment.
4. It encourages compliance over punitive measures, encouraging a culture of self-regulation.
5. Businesses can operate with reduced fear of legal repercussions, stimulating growth and innovation.

4. What are the challenges faced in implementing public-private partnerships in infrastructure projects? Discuss with suitable examples.

1. Lack of clarity in regulations can lead to disputes between public and private entities.
2. Financial risks, including cost overruns and revenue shortfalls, can deter private investment.
3. Examples include delays in project approvals, as seen in the Delhi-Meerut Expressway project.
4. Public sector inefficiencies can undermine the effectiveness of PPPs, leading to project failures.
5. Stakeholder misalignment regarding project goals and expectations poses challenges.