Grameena Patana Kendram

Grameena Patana Kendram (GPK) is actively involved in the River Bank Mapping and Sand Auditing project. It conducts a comprehensive survey using GPS and levelling instruments to assess various aspects of the river, including bank conditions, biomass, sand sediment levels, and conveyance capacity. Recognized by the Institute of Land and Disaster Management (ILDM) for this work, GPK is currently mapping the Vallithode River and its tributaries in Kannur District. They also provide technical support for mapping the Gayathripuzha River in Palaghat, collaborating with the University of Kerala's Department of Future Studies. GPK has further contributed to research and documentation for the Pampa River, covering 25 Village Panchayats across three Districts, studying the sand bed, soil content, flora, and fauna.

As an accredited Government agency, Grameena Patana Kendram (GPK) plays a vital role in supporting Local Self Government Institutions (LSGI) across Kerala in the timely preparation of Watershed-based Development Master Plans. This extensive endeavour has encompassed over 100 panchayats throughout the state. GPK conducts capacity-building training for elected officials, officials, volunteers, and field assistants to equip them for this task. The process involves baseline surveys to gather data on natural and human-made factors, assets, and agricultural activities in the target areas. Utilizing Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA), GPK collects data, analyzes it, creates maps, digitizes information, and documents the findings. Currently, GPK is actively engaged in updating these master plans to ensure their continued relevance and effectiveness.

Grameena Patana Kendram (GPK) has been actively involved in the Thaddesa Mithram Project, a collaborative effort between the Government of Kerala and the World Bank. This initiative aims to bring about a positive transformation in economically disadvantaged Panchayats, addressing issues such as their financial status, backwardness, and the ratio of SC/ST populations. GPK's role in this project included the assignment of three backward Panchayats: Anchuthengu in Thiruvananthapuram District, Thumpamon, and Anicadu Panchayats in Pathanamthitta District, with a total budget of Rs. 12 crores. Successfully completing the project, GPK submitted a Detailed Project Report for all three Panchayats, contributing to their development and progress.

Grameena Patana Kendram (GPK) is actively engaged in the Geo Informatic Panchayat Project, which revolves around a GIS-based web information software. In this comprehensive application, cadastral plots within Panchayats are meticulously mapped using geo-referencing through latitude and longitude values. This software serves as a repository for individual property details, organised by building numbers within the Panchayat. Its purpose is to store, analyze, and provide necessary information promptly, empowering Panchayats with enhanced planning, management, coordination, and project monitoring capabilities through a Geographic Information System (GIS)-based information system. GPK has successfully implemented this project across more than 25 local bodies, including Block Panchayats, Municipalities, and Grama Panchayats in various districts of Kerala, facilitating informed decision-making and efficient governance.

Grameena Patana Kendram (GPK) is actively involved in the Preparation of Road Connectivity Maps, a valuable resource for local bodies. This process involves referencing all roads within a jurisdiction, including national highways, major district roads, village roads, and foot lanes, into cadastral maps. To provide a comprehensive overview, a detailed report accompanies the map. These maps aid Panchayats in effectively managing road construction and maintenance within their regions, promoting accuracy and clarity in traffic planning. GPK has successfully completed this project for over 10 Panchayats, facilitating improved infrastructure management and development.