Wed Jan 14 21:10:00 UTC 2026: ### Headline: Bihar Mandates Geo-Spatial Analytics for Infrastructure Projects Over ₹50 Crore

The Story

On January 15, 2026, Bihar Chief Secretary Pratyaya Amrit announced that technical approval from the Bihar Remote Sensing Application Centre (BIRSAC) will be mandatory for Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) of infrastructure projects exceeding ₹50 crore. This directive aims to incorporate geo-spatial capabilities into infrastructure planning, making projects more scientific, data-driven, and future-ready. Departments are instructed to integrate geo-spatial inputs at the planning stage to mitigate potential technical, administrative, and land-related obstacles.

The state’s BIRSAC Geo-Spatial Service Usage Policy dictates that geo-spatial analytics will be a mandatory component in the DPRs of significant infrastructure projects. Departments utilizing these services will pay only 0.25% of the total project cost to ensure institutional sustainability. A digital tool, developed in collaboration with the Bhaskaracharya Institute of Space Applications and Geo-Informatics (BISAG-N), will leverage departmental data from the PM Gati Shakti Portal to aid in project planning, alignment, and assessment.

Key Points

  • BIRSAC technical approval is now mandatory for DPRs of projects exceeding ₹50 crore.
  • Departments must incorporate geo-spatial inputs at the planning stage.
  • Geo-spatial analytics are a mandatory component in DPRs of infrastructure projects costing ₹50 crore or more.
  • Departments pay 0.25% of the total project cost for BIRSAC services.
  • A digital tool, in collaboration with BISAG-N, will use PM Gati Shakti Portal data to support DPR preparation.
  • The system aims to prevent duplication of work, reduce costs, and identify potential obstacles early.

Key Takeaways

  • Bihar is prioritizing data-driven and scientific approaches to infrastructure development.
  • The integration of geo-spatial technology into project planning is expected to improve efficiency and reduce costs.
  • The mandatory nature of BIRSAC approval signals a commitment to standardized and rigorous project assessments.
  • Leveraging the PM Gati Shakti Portal suggests a push for greater transparency and coordination across departments.
  • Focus on preventing land and forest-related obstacles indicates awareness of potential environmental and regulatory challenges in infrastructure projects.

Impact Analysis

The implementation of mandatory geo-spatial analytics for infrastructure projects in Bihar has the potential for long-term positive impacts:

  • Improved Project Efficiency: Early identification of potential obstacles, such as land disputes or environmental concerns, will streamline project timelines and reduce delays.
  • Cost Reduction: Preventing duplication of work and optimizing resource allocation will lead to significant cost savings in infrastructure development.
  • Enhanced Disaster Management: Utilizing geo-spatial data for disaster monitoring, including activities like stubble burning, will improve the state’s preparedness and response capabilities.
  • Sustainable Development: Incorporating environmental considerations at the planning stage will contribute to more sustainable and responsible infrastructure development.
  • Increased Transparency and Accountability: The use of the PM Gati Shakti Portal and regular project updates will enhance transparency and accountability in project execution.

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