The 2023 Regional Cooperation and Integration (RCI) Conference, organized by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) in Tbilisi, Georgia, focused on strengthening regional cooperation through economic corridor development. ADB, founded in 1966 with India as a founding member, plays a vital role in promoting social and economic development in Asia and the Pacific. The conference drew participation from over 30 member countries, with India showcasing its PM GatiShakti National Master Plan for multi-modal connectivity. PM GatiShakti, launched in 2021, utilizes GIS-based technology to enhance logistics efficiency and socio-economic planning, benefitting regional partners like Nepal and promoting regional waterways connectivity.
Facts/Terms for UPSC Prelims
- Asian Development Bank (ADB): A regional development bank established in 1966 to promote social and economic development in Asia and the Pacific through loans, technical assistance, grants, and equity investments.
- Tbilisi, Georgia: The host city for the 2023 ADB RCI Conference, the capital of Georgia, located in the South Caucasus region of Eurasia.
- PM GatiShakti National Master Plan: An Indian initiative aimed at integrated planning of multi-modal infrastructure connectivity to boost logistics efficiency and socio-economic development. Launched in 2021, it utilizes GIS technology for planning.
- Geographic Information System (GIS): A system for capturing, storing, analyzing, and visualizing spatial data, used in PM GatiShakti to map infrastructure, land use, and other key factors.
- Regional Waterways Grid (RWG): A project discussed at the conference, aiming to enhance multimodal connectivity to growth centers and border points through waterways, promoting regional economic cooperation.