Geographic Information System for Local Government (GISLG)

The GISLB Project is a cutting-edge, GIS-based web application developed by Grameena Patana Kendram to revolutionize spatial data management for local self-governments (LSGIs) across Kerala.

Core Features and Functionality

• Cadastral Mapping: Each plot within the panchayat is geo-referenced.
• Building-Level Data Integration with unique building numbers.
• Multi-Source Data Collection:
• Satellite imagery and aerial photography
• Digitized legacy maps and plans
• Field data captured via mobile devices

Road Connectivity & Asset Mapping

Transportation plays a vital role in the development of any region. For Local Self-Government Institutions (LSGIs), enhancing road infrastructure is essential to support economic growth, accessibility, and public welfare.

River Bank Mapping & Sand Auditing

GPK is an empanelled agency recognized by the Institute of Land and Disaster Management (ILDM) for conducting River Bank Mapping and Sand Auditing. Our work plays a crucial role in sustainable river management and environmental conservation.

We utilize advanced Geographical Information System (GIS) techniques to:

• Map catchment areas, river banks, sediment deposits, and drainage discharge
• Assess immediate threats to river ecosystems
• Determine sustainable sand extraction limits without compromising river integrity
• Develop comprehensive River Management Plans

Key Projects

• Vallithode River & Tributaries Completed mapping and sand auditing of Vallithode River and its two tributaries — Kundurpuzha and Vempuzha — in Kannur District.
• Pampa & Gayathripuzha Rivers Provided technical support for river mapping to the Department of Futures Studies, University of Kerala.
• Pampa River Research & Documentation Collaborated with the Department of Futures Studies for in-depth research and documentation across 25 Village Panchayats spanning three districts in Kerala.

Watershed Based Master Plan Preparation

This project envisages understanding the present status of rivers, including the condition of both banks, biomass of the area, sand sediment in the basin, and the conveyance capacity of the river. Reports and thematic maps are prepared based on comprehensive field surveys and geospatial analysis.

Survey Methodology

• Comprehensive river survey using GPS and levelling instruments.
• Assessment of sand bed, soil composition, and river conveyance capacity.
• Study of flora, fauna, and overall river ecology.

Project Experience & Institutional Recognition

• GPK is empanelled for River Bank Mapping & Sand Auditing by the Institute of Land and Disaster Management (ILDM).
• River Mapping and Sand Auditing of Vallithode River and its two tributaries in Kannur District.
• Technical support organization for Gayathripuzha river mapping in Palakkad, in collaboration with the Department of Futures Studies, University of Kerala.
• Technical associate in the research and documentation of Pampa River covering 25 Village Panchayats across three districts.

National Rurban Mission (NRuM)

The National Rurban Mission aims to create well-planned rural clusters that provide urban-level infrastructure and economic opportunities without losing the village character.

Key Objectives

• Enhance basic infrastructure and amenities in rural clusters
• Promote sustainable and inclusive development
• Create opportunities for livelihood generation
• Strengthen integrated and holistic village planning

Major Components

• Road connectivity and transport improvements
• Water supply and sanitation facilities
• Skill development and employment programs
• Digital service delivery and e-governance
• Social and community infrastructure buildings

Local Area Planning (AMRUT)

Local Area Planning under AMRUT strengthens sustainable, accessible and well-connected neighbourhoods by improving essential urban services and infrastructure through citizen-focused planning.

Key Focus Areas

• Improving walkability and pedestrian safety
• Upgrading water supply and sewerage networks
• Stormwater management and flood prevention
• Creating green and open public spaces
• Integrated mobility and traffic management

Objectives

• Enhance quality of life in urban neighbourhoods
• Promote climate resilient urban planning
• Encourage citizen participation in development
• Ensure sustainability and efficient resource use

UNDP Project

The project titled “Green Appraisal of Grama Panchayath Plans by Mapping Key Priorities and Mandate of Grama Panchayaths and Linkages of the Same with Biodiversity Conservation and Sustainable Livelihood” was implemented in Anjunad and adjoining panchayats with the aim of protecting biodiversity in the high range mountain landscape.

The project area covers 11 Grama Panchayats spanning 2198.78 sq. km, across four block panchayats belonging to three districts – Idukki, Ernakulam, and Thrissur.

The main objective was the development of a tool to conduct green appraisal of Grama Panchayat plans, mapping priorities and linkages with biodiversity conservation and sustainable livelihood.

The project commenced in December 2019 and was successfully completed in October 2020, within the stipulated timeline.

Partner Organization of Coconut Development Board, Government of India

Citizen Education Centre (CEC) – Grameena Patana Kendram (GPK) has been accredited as a partner organization of the Coconut Development Board, Government of India, in the field of training for Friends of Coconut and Coconut Producers Society (CPS).

Training Programmes

• Training for Friends of Coconut has been conducted since October 2011.
• Structured training programmes are being carried out on a continuous basis.
• Seven batches of CPS Representatives have successfully completed training through CEC, GPK.

Programme Continuity & Feedback

• Both training programmes are continuing with adequate charges.
• Training modules are periodically refined based on feedback analysis.
• Emphasis on quality improvement and practical skill development.

Construction Group Training Programme for Women

Grameena Patana Kendram (GPK), in association with Kudumbasree District Mission, conducts Construction Group Training (Mason Training) programmes exclusively for Kudumbasree women members. The initiative aims to empower women with technical skills and enhance livelihood opportunities in the construction sector.

Programme Highlights

• Conducted in collaboration with Kudumbasree District Mission.
• Focused on skill development in masonry and construction works.
• Training designed specifically for women beneficiaries.

Training Achievements

• Successfully completed training for nine batches.
• Each batch consisted of 30 Kudumbasree members.
• Enhanced employability and self-reliance among women participants.

Resource Mapping

Resource Mapping is carried out in association with the Kerala State Land Use Board (KSLUB), where Grameena Patana Kendram (GPK) functions as an accredited agency in the Participatory Resource Mapping (PRM) process.

Resource maps are prepared with the active involvement of selected volunteers from the respective Local Self Government (LSG) areas. These volunteers are provided with appropriate training, and the mapping is completed with technical support from Grameena Patana Kendram.

Project Coverage & Achievements

• Participatory Resource Mapping completed for 120 Panchayats across Kerala.
• Districts covered include Kozhikode, Kasaragod, Thiruvananthapuram, Idukki, and Malappuram.
• Ensures community participation, transparency, and accurate local resource documentation.

MGNREGS – Institutional Support Activities

Grameena Patana Kendram (GPK) provides institutional and technical support to the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS) by assisting in capacity building, documentation, and quality enhancement initiatives.

Key Support Areas

• Development of structured training modules for Barefoot Engineers.
• Active association in the formulation of the MGNREGS Technical Manual for the Government of Kerala.
• Technical guidance and advisory support to improve implementation standards.

Social Audit & Community Engagement

• Support to Social Audit teams for effective monitoring.
• Engagement with labour groups and worker societies.
• Strengthening transparency, accountability, and grassroots participation.

Well Recharging

As part of the Integrated Watershed Management Programme (IWMP), Grameena Patana Kendram (GPK) has successfully implemented well recharging works to improve groundwater availability and sustainability in rural areas.

Project Implementation

• Well recharge works carried out at Ithikkara Block Panchayat, Kollam District.
• Implementation at Nedumangadu Block Panchayat, Thiruvananthapuram District.
• Execution of well recharging works in various Grama Panchayats.

Impact & Benefits

• Improved groundwater recharge and water table levels.
• Enhanced water availability for domestic and agricultural use.
• Support to long-term watershed sustainability initiatives.

Associate of Kerala Grama Panchayat Association (KGPA)

Grameena Patana Kendram (GPK) has actively contributed as an associate of the Kerala Grama Panchayat Association by supporting governance reforms and institutional strengthening initiatives across Panchayats.

Key Support Areas

• Evolution and formulation of the Litigation-Free Village Campaign.
• Establishment of Jagratha Samithi (Village Vigilance Cells).
• Implementation of Front Office systems as part of Good Governance initiatives.

Strategic Contributions

• Preparation of KGPA Vision Document (2010–2015).
• Support in strengthening transparency and citizen-centric governance.
• Capacity building and policy-level advisory support to Panchayats.

LSG Experience Sharing Activities – Assisted by SDC-CapDeck

Grameena Patana Kendram (GPK) has been actively involved in multifold rapid appraisal and participatory research activities in collaboration with partner organizations to study and document the functioning of Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs).

Interstate Experience Sharing

• Dissemination of meritorious practices and innovations of PRIs across states.
• Facilitation of knowledge exchange among LSG institutions.
• Participation in interstate exposure visits and learning programmes.

Capacity Building & Thematic Areas

• Watershed Development
• Participatory Resource Mapping
• Good Governance and Public Accountability
• Administrative Reforms

Over the past decade, GPK has supported experience-sharing initiatives involving LSG representatives and officials from West Bengal, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Sikkim, and Tripura.

IWMP – Institutional Technical Support Organization

Grameena Patana Kendram (GPK) has been accredited by the Government of Kerala as an Institutional Technical Support Organization for the formulation of Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) under the Integrated Watershed Management Programme (IWMP).

DPR Formulation Support

• Preparation of DPRs for Block Panchayats across Kerala.
• Completed DPRs for:
  • Ithikkara Block Panchayat – Kollam District
  • Pathanapuram Block Panchayat – Kollam District
  • Ranni Block Panchayat – Pathanamthitta District

Technical & Capacity Building Contributions

• Contribution of technical expertise in designing creative project content.
• Structuring activity phases for effective IWMP implementation.
• Organization and training of beneficiary groups for multifold watershed functions.

Associate of RGNIYD

Grameena Patana Kendram (GPK) has been functioning as a local associate organization of the Rajeev Gandhi National Institute of Youth Development (RGNIYD), supporting youth-oriented governance and capacity-building initiatives.

Key Areas of Association

• Development of training modules for Local Self-Government Institutions (LSGIs).
• Interstate experience sharing programmes.
• Capacity building among youth elected representatives, officials, and voluntary activists.

Academic & Faculty Contributions

• Continuous faculty support for joint training and knowledge-sharing initiatives.
• Provision of hospitality and logistical facilities for collaborative programmes.
• Contribution to the preparation of training materials for diverse LSGI stakeholders.

MovingKraft – Creative & New Media Unit

MovingKraft is an initiative of Grameena Patana Kendram (GPK) under its Integrated Information Technology Centre (IITC), aimed at institutionalizing a self-employment centre focused on creative and digital media industries.

Core Focus Areas

• Animation and New Media production.
• Designing and creative digital programmes.
• Skill development and self-employment generation.

Technical Strength & Facilities

• Highly qualified and experienced creative professionals.
• High-end technical infrastructure and production facilities.
• Delivery of innovative, professional, and quality creative outputs.

Unsung Among Us (Supported by UNDP & AMIC)

Unsung Among Us is a participatory media initiative supported by UNDP and AMIC, aimed at identifying, documenting, and showcasing the lesser-known contributors and narratives from within local communities.

Project Objectives

• Encourage community members to identify and explore their “unsung” heroes.
• Produce ten-minute documentary films based on locally identified narratives.
• Develop a participatory model for community-driven media creation.

Key Focus Areas

• Documentation of indigenous knowledge systems.
• Short-term research in cultural and technological history of Kerala.
• Content creation across all levels of society through systematic documentation.
• Dissemination of documented knowledge using multimedia platforms.

Basic Education – Academic, Administrative & Management Aspects (BEAAM)

BEAAM is a programme entrusted by the Kerala State Planning Board under the Decentralization Support Programme, focusing on strengthening academic management and local self-governance in the education sector.

Programme Objectives

• Conduct action research to improve academic and administrative management.
• Strengthen the role of Local Self-Governments in education governance.
• Enhance management of:
  • Pre-primary education
  • Primary education
  • High school education

Key Outcomes

• Identification of gaps in existing rules and regulations.
• Recommendations for policy and implementation improvements.
• Development of practical strategies for effective education management.

Youth and LSG Initiatives

Grameena Patana Kendram (GPK) actively supports youth-centric initiatives in collaboration with Local Self-Governments (LSGs), focusing on inclusive development, leadership, and community engagement.

Core Focus Areas

• Development of effective guidelines for youth and LSG initiatives.
• Establishment and support of Village Youth Centres.
• Arts, sports, and cultural integration for youth development.
• Promotion of gender equity and women empowerment.
• Formation of Adolescent and Youth Facilitators & Promoters Teams.

Technical & Advisory Support

• Expert consultation to RGNIYD, Sriperumbudur, Tamil Nadu.
• Development of training modules for youth-oriented programmes.
• Capacity building and leadership development initiatives.

People’s Democratic Initiative on LSG – Kerala (PDIL-K)

The People’s Democratic Initiative on Local Self-Government – Kerala (PDIL-K) is a governance reform initiative implemented by Grameena Patana Kendram (GPK) as part of the RAMDeM Project across selected Grama Panchayats in Kerala.

Service Delivery & Governance Reforms

• Developed replicable service delivery improvement and management systems.
• Implemented reforms in 63 selected Grama Panchayats across Kerala.
• Introduced standardized Service Centres under selected LSGIs.

Institutional Innovations

• Initiated and institutionalized the Front Office System in LSGIs.
• Developed integrated institutional guidelines for LSGI offices.
• Enhanced service quality, transparency, and citizen satisfaction.

River Morphology Change Study & Well Log Survey

Grameena Patana Kendram (GPK) has been entrusted by the Kerala State Remote Sensing and Environment Centre to conduct an after-flood River Morphology Change Study and Well Log Survey.

Scope of the Study

• Assessment of post-flood changes in river morphology.
• Scientific documentation of river course and structural variations.
• Well Log Survey to analyze groundwater conditions.

Project Status

• Field studies and data collection completed.
• Analysis and reporting in finalization stage.
• Outputs include technical reports and spatial datasets.

Paddy Field Conservation – Watershed Masterplan

Agriculture and its allied activities form a vital development sector that must integrate soil health and water availability. With systematic planning, rice cultivation can emerge as one of the most sustainable and promising livelihood strategies rooted in traditional knowledge and experience.

Importance of Paddy Cultivation

• Protection of soil quality and water resources.
• Preservation of local flora and fauna.
• Strengthening food security and rural livelihoods.

Comprehensive Rice Conservation Master Plan

• Scientific and community-based survey of paddy fields.
• Integration of traditional practices with modern technologies.
• Transformation of paddy cultivation into a community-led development strategy.
• Promotion of sustainable agriculture through watershed-based planning.

Thaddesa Mithram Project (KLGSDP)

Thaddesa Mithram is a project initiated by the Government of Kerala and aided by the World Bank, aimed at bringing transformative development to backward Panchayats. The project focuses on creating positive change in local governance, fund utilization, social inclusion, and overall development indicators.

Project Objectives

• To uplift backward Panchayats through targeted development interventions.
• To improve fund management and utilization at the local level.
• To address backwardness based on socio-economic indicators.
• To support Panchayats with high SC/ST population and other adverse conditions.

GPK’s Role & Project Coverage

• Grameena Patana Kendram was assigned the implementation of the project in three backward Panchayats.
• Anchuthengu Panchayat – Thiruvananthapuram District.
• Thumpamon and Anicadu Panchayats – Pathanamthitta District.
• Total project cost: ₹12 Crores.
• The project was successfully completed with Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) submitted for all three Panchayats.