In a significant stride towards technological advancement in rural development, the Ministry of Rural Development has signed a MoU with the Indian Institute of Technology Delhi to formalize their partnership in applications of geospatial technology and artificial intelligence. The MoU was signed by Shri Amit Kataria, Joint Secretary, MoRD and Prof. Manabendra Saharia, IIT Delhi. Secretary, MoRD Shri Shailesh Kumar Singh and Director, IIT Delhi Prof. Rangan Banerjee were also present in the occasion. Discussions on the collaboration was led by Director, MGNREGA Ms. Aditi Singh, Dean R&D, IIT Delhi Prof. Naresh Bhatnagar and Head, Dept of Civil Engineering Prof. Vasant Matsagar.

The MoU centers around the project "BhuPRAHARI," an ambitious initiative aimed at leveraging ground and space-based geospatial technologies along with Artificial Intelligence to monitor and manage assets under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA). The project is to be executed by the HydroSense lab led by Prof. Manabendra Saharia. This collaboration is a commitment to harnessing the power of technology for the betterment of rural development processes.

During the signing ceremony, officials from MoRD and IIT Delhi underscored the importance of this partnership in enhancing the operational efficiency and transparency of MGNREGA projects. The integration of cutting-edge technologies is expected to modernize the way rural development projects are planned, monitored, and executed, ensuring accountability, and optimizing resource allocation. In his address, Prof. Rangan Banerjee highlighted the institute's dedication to applying scientific research and technological innovations for social good. The MoU marks the beginning of a collaborative effort to explore and apply technological solutions to the challenges faced by rural communities. Through this partnership, IIT Delhi and MoRD are setting a precedent for how academic institutions and government bodies can work together to foster innovation and drive socio-economic progress. The BhuPRAHARI project is set to commence with immediate effect, with both parties eager to translate this vision into reality.

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