Basic Infrastructure 1

Table of Contents

Contents
Part B: The Training Module 3

Session 1: Welcome and Introduction to the Training (30 minutes)  3

Session 2: Introduction of Participants (30 mins) 5

Session 3: Introduction to the Theme (30 mins) 7

Session 4: Overview of the sector(20 mins) 8

Session 5: Discussion of Challenges in achieving indicators (90 mins) 15

Session 6: Learning from Good Practices (60 mins) 19

Session 7: Fast Tracking Implementation: Prioritise interventions against

each indicator (45 mins) 21

Session 8: Manifesto for Action (45 mins) 24

Session 9: Plan for transforming the blocks (45 mins) 26

Session 10: Closing (30 mins) 27

Annexure:29

Annexure 2: Legacy Statement Template 30

Annexure 3: Success stories and best practices 31

 Part B: The Training Module
Session 1: Welcome and Introduction to
the Training (30 minutes)

Session Description
This session introduces the participants to the training. It is important for the participants to know
what they will engage with during the day long training and how it relates to their work. It is also
important for the facilitators to hear what expectations the participants have so they can manage
expectations. Setting ground rules jointly with the participants is an excellent way to create a
conducive environment for learning.

Session Objective
• To introduce the purpose, relevance and critical objectives of the day long training.
• To foster a sense of direction and purpose among BLOs.

Expected Outcome
Participants will build a strong connection with the facilitator, and jointly established norms,
creating an energised and collaborative atmosphere conducive to meaningful learning and skill
enhancement throughout the training day.

Session Content

S. no. Content Duration Methods Material Required

Welcome and Opening

1.1 15 mins Sharing -
Remarks
Introduction of the training
1.2 10 mins Presentation -
Program and context setting

1.3 Establishing Norms 5 mins Discussion Flip Chart

Session Description and Instructions to the facilitator

1.1 Welcome and Opening Remarks
Facilitator to Introduce themselves and welcome the participants to the training. In case there is a
welcome address, please felicitate the speaker and invite them for the opening remarks.

1.2 Introduction of the training Program and context Setting

Deliver the presentation on the overall goal of the training, learning objectives, the learning journey,
the learning methodologies, and the agenda.
Notes to the facilitator:
The current training program aims to ensure the success of the Aspirational Block Programme
(ABP) launched nationwide by the Hon. Prime Minister. Emphasise the need for the participants
to involve themselves in the training wholeheartedly.

• Outline the objectives and methodology of the training, clearly stating what participants
need to achieve by the end of the sessions:

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 » Participants will identify issues and challenges that different stakeholders face concerning
specific indicators in the given sector for their blocks.
» Participants will develop strategic solutions and create an action plan for achieving
saturation on indicators.
» Participants will build insights into seeking cooperation and collaborate with various
stakeholders to reach their target, highlighting the importance of Convergence.
» Participants will grasp the importance of focusing on behavioural change communication
and pick up strategies to mobilise action for change on the ground.
• Share the broad layout and agenda of the day and briefly explain what each session aims
to capture.

1.3 Establishing Norms

Explain to the participants that it is important to play by the same rules in order to create a
conducive environment and to maximise the benefits of the workshop.
Encourage participants to set some norms.
Write them on a flipchart clearly marked “Ground rules”.
Review the ground rules with the participants and ask if there are any additions.

Key messages to be shared:

• Highlight the significance of the participants’ involvement and encourage them to engage
in the training wholeheartedly.
• Encourage participants to actively participate, ask questions, and share their experiences
throughout the training.
Thank the participants for their active participation.
Transition smoothly into the next session encouraging the importance of knowing each-other and
about each-other’s’ work before deep-diving into the sectoral training.

4 Basic Infrastructure
 Session 2: Introduction of Participants
(30 mins)

Session Description
In this session, participants will be invited to share brief introductions, highlighting their roles and
experiences in their respective blocks. The session focuses on learning more about the participants
and recognizing the outstanding work of block-level officers (BLOs). We will shed light on the
significance of the impact that effective leadership can have in fostering developmental initiatives
at the block level.

Session Objective
• To build familiarity among the BLOs
• To seek motivation by recalling some outstanding work done by participants as BLOs

Expected Outcome
Participants will learn more about each-other and feel motivated after understanding the potential
of effective leadership in driving initiatives at the block level.

Session Content

S. no. Content Duration Methods Material Required

2.1 Self-Profile 10 mins Filling a template

Small and Large

2.2 Participants’ Claim to Fame 20 mins
group Sharing

Session Description and Instructions to the facilitator

2.1 Self Profile
Ask each participant to fill their profile templates. Share a pre-filled profile template of self as an
example.
Ask the co-facilitator to share the handouts of profile-templates (Annexure 1) with everyone.

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 MY PROFILE

Name: __________________________________________________________________________
Organisation: ____________________________________________________________________
District Province: _________________________________________________________________
My job title: _____________________________________________________________________
Length in position ________________________________________________________________
My main responsibilities:___________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
One person I admire the most and why:______________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
In the last six months, my most significant achievement, my moment of Fame have been
_______________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
This led to transformation in the lives of people in my block in different ways
______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________

2.2 Participants’ Claim to Fame

Post-filling of the profile template, share that all the BLOs may have achieved something significant
in their roles and that is their Claim to Fame. Facilitators can share their Claim to Fame here with
the participants.
Ask participants to share their Claims to Fame in the groups of 4-5 people.
Post small group sharing, pose the following questions:

• What are we learning about each-other?

• Whose claim to fame did you get inspired by the most and why?
Conclude by sharing the key messages:

• A lot of wisdom lies in this room.

• Strong leadership can lead to transformation in the lives of people we serve.
• We can all learn from each-other to keep solving the problems that we face in our work and
driving the positive change in our blocks.
Encourage everyone or seek co-facilitator’s support in putting up their profiles on the walls of the
room.

6 Basic Infrastructure
 Session 3: Introduction to the Theme
(30 mins)
Session Description
Access to basic infrastructure services, including safe housing, affordable internet connectivity,
clean drinking water and sanitation, is a matter of social equity and human rights. Inadequate
access disproportionately affects marginalised communities, including those living in informal
settlements or rural areas. Addressing disparities in access to these essential services is critical
for promoting social inclusion, reducing inequalities, and ensuring that all individuals can lead
healthy and dignified lives. Adequate infrastructure, including reliable water supply and sanitation
services, is essential for economic development. It also enhances the quality of life, which in turn
attracts investment, stimulates economic growth, and contributes to poverty reduction.

Session Objective
• Facilitate participants’ comprehension of the interconnectedness of sectors, including
drinking water, sanitation, and basic infrastructure.
• Elaborate on the multi-dimensional nature of the basic infrastructure theme.
• Emphasise the significant impact of the basic infrastructure theme on the quality of life of
individuals.

Expected Outcome
• Participants will have a clear understanding of the interdependence of sectors within the
basic infrastructure theme, its multidimensional nature, and its impact on the quality of life
of people.

Session Content

S. no. Content Duration Methods Material Required

Session Description and

3.1 30 min Presentation
Instructions to the facilitator

3.1 Session Description and Instructions to the facilitator

Start by communicating to the participants what we mean by Basic infrastructure as a theme.
It would cover five key indicators for ensuring basic infrastructure facilities in the Block which
includes : Water & Sanitation sectors (2 indicators), BharatNet project (2 indicators) and Rural
Housing Scheme (1 indicator). The indicators are as follows:

1. Percentage of Households (HHs) with functional tap water connections (FHTC) against
total number of HHs in the block
2. Percentage of villages declared open Defecation Free (ODF) plus
3. Percentage of Gram Panchayats with BharatNet
4. Percentage of Gram Panchayats with Live BharatNet connection against total number Gram
Panchayats with BharatNet
5. Percentage of Households (HHs) constructed under PMAY-G against cumulative target.
Close the session by stressing that BLOs are the leaders of change in Aspirational Blocks.
Break into sectoral groups

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 Session 4: Overview of the sector
(20 mins)
Session Description
The BharatNet Project and the Rural Housing Scheme are two significant initiatives undertaken by
the Government of India to address infrastructure and housing needs in rural areas. This session
covers three indicators that are associated with the BharatNet Project and Rural Housing Scheme
which are aimed at improving the quality of life and fostering inclusive growth in rural areas by
addressing critical infrastructure and housing needs.

Session Objective
The module attempts to achieve the following objectives in achieving the goals of ABP.

• To orient Block level functionaries about the concept and importance of implementing
basic infrastructure scheme in rural India, and how it contributes to achieving SDGs.
• To ensure that BLOs comprehend the multifaceted impact of basic infrastructure.
• To support the BLOs in developing plans to ensure universal coverage of HHs under the
scheme.
• To expedite the implementation of basic infrastructure schemes more efficiently within the
framework of BDS.

Expected Outcome
• Participants will be able to gain understanding about the basic infrastructure sector and its
importance.

Session Content

S. no. Content Duration Methods Material Required

4.1 Introduction to the sector 5 mins Video

Debrief through guiding

4.2 10 mins Discussion
questions
Objectives of the sectoral
4.3 5 mins Presentation
training

Session Description and Instructions to the facilitator

4.1 Introduction to the Sector
• Reiterate from earlier sessions:
» Introduce the purpose of the training session, emphasising the focus on the success of
ABP. Explain the rationale behind these sectoral sessions, for effective contributions to
ABP across various sectors, including Basic infrastructure. Highlight the importance of
collaboration, and collective thinking in achieving sectoral goals. Encourage learning
and implementing good practices in respective areas.
» Outline the training’s objectives and methodology, clarifying that participants should
identify key action points and plan concrete steps to strengthen the basic infrastructure
ecosystem by the end of the sessions.

8 Basic Infrastructure
 » Convey the message of confidence in participants’ abilities to positively impact the ABP.
Introduce the sector specifics:
• Create awareness about the importance of basic infrastructure facilities in rural areas with
special focus on Digital India programme, BharatNet project & PMAY-G:
A. About BharatNet Project
In today’s digital world, using the internet is part of our daily lives which makes life quick,
easy, and simple when used appropriately. The internet provides information, knowledge,
and data useful for personal, social, and economic development. The “Digital India”
campaign was launched in the year 2015 by the Government of India to uplift the usage of
technology in India. There are three components at the core of the “Digital India” campaign
which includes Creation of Digital Infrastructure; Delivery of Digital Services; and Digital
Literacy. The objective was to make Government services easily available to the citizens
electronically by improving its online infrastructure all over the country. The process would
be structured to increase internet connectivity to make the country digitally empowered. It
helps to reach out to the masses and encourages them to use technology in their daily lives.
In India, there is inadequate internet connectivity especially in rural areas. In 2014, the
Government of India rebranded the National Optical Fibre Network (NFON) initiative,
which was launched in 2011, as ‘BharatNet’, and introduced several changes to its structure
and operations. It was then given a new impetus by making it a pillar of the Digital India
programme. BharatNet’s goal is to provide high-speed broadband connectivity to the
250,000-plus village panchayats spread across India’s 6,600 blocks and 640 districts. It is to
act as a middle-mile network from blocks to panchayats allowing Internet service providers
(ISPs), local cable operators, and other agencies to use its bandwidth and incremental fibre.
Since 2017, the project has also sought to provide last- mile connectivity by setting up Wi-Fi
hotspots in villages.
The main objective of the BharatNet is to facilitate the delivery of e-governance, e-health, e-
education, e-banking, Internet and other services to the rural India. The project is a Centre-
State collaborative project, with the States contributing free Rights of Way for establishing
the Optical Fibre Network. The BharatNet Project is funded by the Universal Service
Obligation Fund or USOF. The USOF was established to enhance the telecom services of
rural and remote areas of the nation.

Phases of BharatNet Implementation

There are three phases to the BharatNet Project. Each phase was designed to create a digitally
smart Rural India with rural broadband. The features of each phase is presented below in brief.

• Phase I: Provide one lakh gram panchayats with broadband connectivity by laying
underground Optic Fibre Cable (OFC) lines by December 2017.
• Phase II: Provide connectivity to all the gram panchayats in the country using an optimal
mix of underground fibre, fibre over power lines, radio and satellite media by March 2019.
• Phase III: From 2019 to 2023, a state-of-the-art, future-proof network, including fibre
between districts and blocks, with ring topology to provide redundancy would be created.
The last mile connectivity, with a total of 700,000 Wi-Fi hotspots to cover all 625,000 villages of
India by adding 2 to 5 Wi-Fi hotspots per gram panchayat and a minimum of one Wi-Fi hotspot
per village, have been created by connecting high-speed 4G base tower stations of commercial
telecom operators to BharatNet.

Services provided under BharatNet

The Bharat Net scheme is a middle mile network from block to gram panchayat. The governmental
organisations and service providers are provided with the following services through this project.

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 • Bandwidth: From the block to the gram panchayat, point-to-point and point-to-multipoint
bandwidth is available using GPON or Gigabit Passive Optical Network technology. The
block location is where all service providers and governmental agencies can connect to
Bharat Net program to provide their services to the gram panchayat level. The service
provider must use technology to deliver services to its clients in gram panchayat. This
bandwidth is provided at reasonable and alluring prices to advance the digital economy.
• Dark Fibre: Service providers may also use dark fibre service that is available with the help
of a new cable BBNL installed between the block and gram panchayat. It is an incremental
cable between the fibre point of interconnect and the gateway platforms. There are approx
15000 Indian gram panchayats with access to dark fibre. This dark fibre is available for a
very appealing and reasonable price of INR 2250 / fibre annually.

I. Implementation of BharatNet
The BharatNet Project’s implementation status as of 1st Dec 2023 is mentioned below:

• 207,989 Gram Panchayats are connected through the BharatNet project

• 669,751 Km of OFC has been laid
• 782,366 Fibre-To-The-Home (FTTH) connections are commissioned
• 04,675 Wi-Fi hotspots are installed to ensure last-mile connectivity

No. of Gram Panchayat (GPs) for which agencies decided

1,32,700
to install WiFi/ FTTH

WiFi Installed in GPs 1,04,675

WiFi Active in GPs 6,322

Total Data used per month 88,157 TB

Length of OFC Laid 6,64,572 Km

Number of GPs where OFC Laid 2,09,380

GPs to which OFC Connected & Equipment Installed 2,07,597

The state-wise number of Service Ready GPs, as on 8th Dec 2023, are presented below.

S. No. State/ UT No. of GPs

1 Andaman & Nicobar Islands 81

2 Andhra Pradesh 12859

3 Arunachal Pradesh 1081

4 Assam 1640

5 Bihar 8860

10 Basic Infrastructure
S. No. State/ UT No. of GPs

6 Chandigarh 13

7 Chhattisgarh 9759

8 Dadra & Nagar Haveli 21

9 Daman & Diu 20

10 Gujarat 14545

11 Haryana 6204

12 Himachal Pradesh 415

13 Jammu & Kashmir 1306

14 Jharkhand 4638

15 Karnataka 6251

16 Kerala 1130

17 Lakshadweep 9

18 Madhya Pradesh 18102

19 Maharashtra 24166

20 Manipur 1479

21 Meghalaya 693

22 Mizoram 495

23 Nagaland 232

24 Odisha 7099

25 Puducherry 101

26 Punjab 12807

27 Rajasthan 8998

28 Sikkim 41

29 Tamil Nadu 6839

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 S. No. State/ UT No. of GPs

30 Telangana 10816

31 Tripura 771

32 Uttar Pradesh 45931

33 Uttrakhand 2013

34 West Bengal 2909

Total 212324

Source: Official website of Bharat Broadband Network Limited (BBNL)

II. Pradhan Mantri Awaas Yojana - Gramin (PMAY-G)

Rural housing programme, as an independent programme, started with Indira Awaas Yojana (IAY)
in Jan 1996. Although IAY addressed the housing needs in the rural areas, certain gaps were
identified in the scheme, like non-assessment of housing shortage, lack of technical supervision,
lack of convergence with other schemes, poor loan support to beneficiaries etc. To address the
gaps in the rural housing program and in view of Government’s commitment to providing “Housing
for All’’ by 2022, the IAY has been re-structured into Pradhan Mantri Awaas Yojana- Gramin
(PMAY-G) with effect from 1st April 2016. In the existing scenario, PMAY-G aims at providing 2.95
crore pucca houses across the country by March 2024, with basic amenities, to all the houseless
and households living in zero, one or two room with kutcha wall and kutcha roof (kutcha houses)
as per SECC-2011 data subject to the prescribed exclusion process.
As on 31st October 2023, out of target of 2.95 crore houses, 2.48 crore house have been completed
and less than 1 lakh houses need to be sanctioned (Ref: 2nd PRC Meeting of MoRD held on 2nd
Nov 2023).

Salient Features of PMAY-G scheme:

• Use of SECC-2011 house deprivation data for identification of beneficiaries
• Unit assistance Rs.1.20 Lakh in plain areas and Rs.1.30 Lakh in hilly states / difficult areas
/ IAP districts
• Minimum size of the unit is 25 sq.m. including a dedicated area for hygienic cooking
• Targeted Approach: Construction of 2.95 crore houses in rural areas by March 2024
• Direct Benefit Transfer to the bank accounts of beneficiaries
• Convergence with other programmes for basic amenities – Centre and State
• Monitoring progress of construction through geo-referenced photographs using AwaasApp
• Development of house design typologies
• Rural Mason Training for quality construction.

12 Basic Infrastructure
Basic Infrastructure 13
 • Play the video on BahartNet Project- Bringing Rural India online for 2:04 minutes:

[Link]
watch?v=Q24Gs9pay6A&ab_
channel=PIBIndia

4.2 Debrief through Guiding Questions

• “What stood out to you in the film?”
• “Why do you think Bharat Net is crucial ?
• “Who, in your opinion, are the primary beneficiaries of it?”
4.3 Objectives of the Sectoral training

• Inspire hope among the BLOs in the universal coverage of Housing in his/her block.
• Make BLOs realize multi-dimensional impact of housing and internet
• Accelerated implementation of these 2 schemes- action plan/ strategies.
• ‘No one is left behind’

14 Basic Infrastructure
 Session 5: Discussion of Challenges in
achieving indicators (90 mins)
Session Description
In this session, participants will discuss the challenges in achieving the targets for the basic
infrastructure indicators. The session will communicate that the success of any program depends
on collaborative efforts from government and private stakeholders. This interactive session will help
participants identify unique challenges faced by each key stakeholder as they strive to augment
basic infrastructure in their respective areas and share experiences to overcome them.

Session Objective
• Identify the key obstacles and challenges hindering the attainment of rapid scalability
within the framework of Aspirational Blocks.
• Bring out / call attention to evidence on how these challenges have been overcome in
similar contexts elsewhere, which accelerated programme implementation touching the
finish-line of 100% (all rural households) and saturated.

Expected Outcome
• Participants will have the opportunity to recognize the obstacles that impede the attainment
of basic infrastructure within their respective blocks.
• Participants will gain insight into the significance of effective communication in embracing
positive behavioural approaches.
• Participants enhance their confidence in enhancing basic infrastructure by presenting
solutions to the challenges.

Session Content

S. no. Content Duration Methods Material Required

Identification of challenges in Independent

5.1 10 mins
the block Reflection
Consolidation and Bucketing of
5.2 20 mins Discussion
Challenges

5.3 Exchange of Solutions 30 mins Discussion

Importance of behavioral Presentation

5.4 30 mins
Change Communication Discussion

Session Description and Instructions to the facilitator

5.1 Identification of Challenges in a block
● Participants will be grouped according to their respective blocks. If there are multiple
participants from the same block, they will be placed together in a group; otherwise, they will
complete the exercise individually.

• Ask each group to engage in discussions and compile a comprehensive list of specific
challenges related to improving basic infrastructure in their administrative and operational
zones, taking into account the regional or cultural distinctiveness of the block.

Basic Infrastructure 15
 • Conduct a group discussion and presentation session, facilitating an environment where
participants can share challenges specific to their respective blocks. (make groups of 5-6
participants each).
• Promote a constructive discussion regarding collaborative efforts aimed at enhancing basic
infrastructure.

Facilitator may refer to the following list of challenges to facilitate the group
activity:
[Link] in Implementation of BharatNet Project
• Due to lack of coordination among different stakeholders, it is unlikely to meet the 2025
target of connecting all 2.5 lakh gram panchayats.
• Quality of fibre and even its existence became questionable due to CSC’s failure, leading
to no response in PPP model due to poor or non-existent network on ‘as is where is basis.
• The BharatNet project has been in the works for several years (more than a decade now)
and according to various sources from the government and the industry, many private firms
are also reluctant to join the project in the public-private partnership (PPP) mode, terming
it as a ‘dead asset’ now.
• Major reasons for Delay: The lack of approved detailed project report, non-existent project
implementing agencies, and non-availability of funds has been attributed as the reason for
the delay for most of these projects.
• Right of way (RoW) issues: Right of Way is the legal right, established by usage or grant,
to pass along a specific route through grounds or property belonging to another. Right of
Way permission mainly from Forest Department, Railways for railway crossing and National
Highway authority of India is a challenge.
• Linear Architecture: The endpoint connectivity at the gram panchayat (GP) location has
only a single fibre path available, from the nearest exchange. Due to lack of a backup path,
the GP location gets isolated in case of any fault.
• Fibre Point of Interconnect (FPOI) Operational Challenges: During the first phase of
deployment, existing fibre laid by BSNL, and other PSUs was leveraged to connect the GP
with the nearest exchange. In this process Fibre POI was created to tap existing fibre with
the last mile. However, this design has created serious operational challenges which affect
timely fault localization and restoration, hence uptime.

II. Key challenges in implementing PMAY-G:

• Delay in allotment of land to landless PMAY-G beneficiaries by the States
• Delay in release of Central and State share by the States into SNA
• Rising cost of raw material and labour
• Non-availability of construction materials in many states
• Acceptance of region specific house design typologies
• Non-availability of a skilled workforce for sustainable/affordable housing technologies.

5.2 Consolidation and Bucketing of Challenges

• Presentation: Request each team to share the two most distinctive challenges or issues they
have identified from their discussion. Encourage participants to utilise the insights gained in
their roles to enhance basic infrastructure in their respective areas. Nominate a participant
to volunteer and compile the challenges identified by the participants, categorising them
into specific groups.

16 Basic Infrastructure
 • Ensure that all the challenges shall be bucketed as follows: Behavioral, Infrastructure,
Financial, Technical, Social
• Instruct the participants to call out the challenges they have identified, and then assign the
volunteer to consolidate them on the display or whiteboard, organising them under the
appropriate categories.

5.3 Exchange of Solutions

• In the open forum, introduce each category and encourage participants to deliberate on
how they would address the related challenges. Urge participants to leverage their personal
experiences or those of others they are acquainted with while putting forth solutions to the
challenges.
• Facilitate a category-wise discussion and promote a constructive dialogue focusing on
collaborative efforts to enhance basic infrastructure.
• Emphasise that effectively addressing behavioural barriers will require implementing a
targeted communication strategy utilising a systematic approach to overcome hurdles
in adopting new practices, increase awareness, motivate individuals to take action, and
provide necessary information and skills for making informed decisions.

Facilitator may refer to the indicative list of solutions to drive the discussion:
• Providing all certificates on time for registration and sanction of house
• Providing relevant NOCs and certificates from state authorities
• Massive awareness on Sustainable Housing technologies promoted by NIRDPR
• Targeted trainings for Rural Engineers, Masons and Construction workers
• Training and capacity building of key officials
• Emphasis on group housing and multistory houses to address the landless issues
• More robust public grievance assistance for beneficiaries
• Additinal help under PMAY-G, may be provided through convergence:

5.4 Importance of Behavioral Change Communication

Behaviour change and communication are of paramount importance in the context of basic
infrastructure initiatives like PMAY (Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana) and BharatNet. Fostering
behaviour change and effective communication requires a multi-stakeholder approach, customised
strategies for different target groups, and a continuous feedback loop to assess and improve the
effectiveness of communication efforts. Effective BCC implementation results in:

Basic Infrastructure 17
 Awareness and Understanding: Many individuals and communities may not be aware of the
existence or benefits of these infrastructure programs. Effective communication campaigns can
educate them about the initiatives, their objectives, eligibility criteria, and how they can benefit
from them. This understanding is crucial for encouraging participation and utilisation of the
services provided.
Socio-cultural Barriers and Solutions: Behavior change communication helps identify and address
socio-cultural barriers that may hinder the successful implementation of infrastructure initiatives.
By understanding the socio-cultural context, perceptions, and preferences of the target audience,
communication strategies can be tailored to overcome specific challenges.
Sustainability and Impact: Sustainable behaviour change is essential for the long-term success
and impact of infrastructure programs. Effective communication fosters a culture of awareness,
responsibility, and continuous engagement with the infrastructure solutions provided. This
sustained behaviour change ensures the ongoing utilisation and maintenance of infrastructure
assets, maximising their benefits for individuals and communities over time.

18 Basic Infrastructure
 Session 6: Learning from Good Practices
(60 mins)
Session Description
This session is intended to explore strategies, approaches, and activities that have been successfully
implemented and proven to be effective, efficient, and replicable in consistently achieving desired
outcomes. We will also examine some best practices for overcoming barriers, fast tracking
implementation, convergent action, and leverage the power of local institutions (SHGs / GPs), in
reaching the targets of basic infrastructure in aspirational blocks.

Session Objective
• Identify appropriate best practice models that can be replicated within the respective
blocks.
• Empower the participants to enhance the effectiveness of scheme implementation by
leveraging success story experiences

Expected Outcome
• Understanding gaps and possible steps the BLO will take at various levels to augment basic
infrastructure in their blocks.

Session Content

S. no. Content Duration Methods Material Required

6.1 Exploration of Case-studies 20 mins Case studies

6.2 Analysis of Case-studies 20 mins Discussion

Reflection on
6.3 Reflection and take-aways 10 mins
Moodometer

Session Description and Instructions to the facilitator

6.1 Exploration of Case-studies
• The facilitator will organise the participants into five groups and assign each group a case
study to study and present. Each group will have 20 minutes to analyse and discuss their
assigned case study, followed by a 5-minute presentation to the entire plenary. (Refer Annex
1 for 3 success stories and 1 best practice)

6.2 Analysis of Case-studies

• Ask participants to bring out following:
» Who are the various stakeholders involved in successful implementation of PMAY-G?
» What are the various interventions introduced related to basic infrastructure?
» What is the impact of access to basic infrastructure on quality of life ?

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 6.3 Reflection and take-aways
• A well-planned and well-implemented rural housing scheme and the BharatNet can impact
on several aspects of rural life.
• The reason is RH is not merely shelter, it is closely related to overall development.
• Programme Convergence:

PMAY-G
• Providing additional benefits through convergence of schemes for basic amenities:
• Unskilled labour wages for 90/95 days - Rs. 22000/- through MGNREGA
• Construction of Toilet for Rs 12000/- through MGNREGA / SBM-G
• LPG connection through PMUY
• Electricity through DDUGJY/Saubhaghya
• Drinking Water through Jal Jeevan Mission
• Associating Women Beneficiaries with SHGs - NRLM

BharatNet Project
• Leverage strengths of other PSUs and organisations, i.e. partnership with BSNL, RailTel,
PGCIL, TCIL, CDOT, NIC, etc.
• Geographical Information System (GIS) to be used for asset mapping and tracking centrally.
• Involvement of all the related agencies with clear role assignment for effective
implementation.

20 Basic Infrastructure
 Session 7: Fast Tracking Implementation:
Prioritise interventions against each
indicator (45 mins)
Session Description
This session is intended to identify and prioritise interventions that can facilitate the achievement
of desired or expected outcomes within the allocated time frame.

Session Objective
• To revisit and reconsider the potential solutions and steps required to achieve key
performance indicators of basic infrastructure.
• To empower participants to recognize priority actions within their respective Blocks.
• To assist BLOs in prioritising actions to increase the percentage of BharatNet connectivity
and accelerate the construction of households under PMAY-G.

Expected Outcome
• To assist BLOs in identifying priority actions for sectoral saturation.

Session Content

S. no. Content Duration Methods Material Required

List of prioritised intervention Handout

7.1 30 mins
against each indicator Presentation

7.2 Reflection and take-aways 15 mins Discussion

Session Description and Instructions to the facilitator

7.1 List of prioritised intervention against each indicator
Facilitator may ask participants to consider indicative steps given in the below chart along with
their own ideas as solutions:

Basic Infrastructure 21
 S. no. Indicator Indicative/ Actionable steps

• Identify the Model being followed by

respective state i.e. Pvt. Model, State Led
Model, BSNL or PPP Model.
• Study the geographic location (latitude &
Percentage of Gram longitude) and terrain for Gram Panchayats to
1. decide which GPs should be fibre connected
Panchayats with BharatNet
or wireless connected or satellite based.
• Lay the OFC cable from Block to all
unconnected Gram Panchayats through the
Implementing Agency and corresponding
model followed in the State.
• Service providers and Govt. agencies to
provide connectivity through Bharat Net
Project to extend their services from Block
to Gram Panchayats and to individual
households.
• Monitor the progress and ensure that the
Block & Gram Panchayats in it are Service
Percentage of Gram ready with BharatNet.
Panchayats with Live • Leverage strengths of other PSUs and
2. BharatNet connection organisations, i.e. partnership with BSNL,
against total number Gram RailTel, PGCIL, TCIL, CDOT, NIC, etc.
Panchayats with BharatNet
• Geographical Information System (GIS) to be
used for asset mapping and tracking centrally.
• Involvement of all the related agencies
with clear role assignment for effective
implementation.
• Identify the targets households allocated to
the Block & Gram Panchayats
• Issue of Sanction Order to beneficiaries
& Orientation to them. Map village level
functionary to the beneficiary.
• Ensure availability of trained mason, raw
material for the construction of houses
wPercentage of HHs • Monitor the progress of house construction
3. constructed under PMAY-G and timely release of instalments to the
against cumulative target beneficiary
• Review the progress of construction of houses
as against target.
Note: For construction of PMAY Houses, the
Labour component is funded under MGNREGS.

22 Basic Infrastructure
7.2 Reflection and take-aways
• Participants can identify goals and finalise them based on the practical realities the block
faces in a time-bound and realistic manner, although the optimum achievement is expected
within the defined period
• Participants will have a set path in terms of interventions required and steps to be followed
for implementation of the action plan.
• The focus should be to bring this Block above state average / national average, whichever
is higher.

Basic Infrastructure 23
 Session 8: Manifesto for Action (45 mins)
Session Description
This session is focused on reviewing current strategies to achieve saturation in identified indicators
within the basic infrastructure sector and preparing an action plan.

Session Objective
• Evaluate the block’s status in achieving saturation by utilising the SWOT analysis conducted
during the Chintan Shivir.
• Determine priority interventions based on the strategy adopted in BDS and outline steps/
activities for achieving saturation for each indicator.
• To assist BLOs in formulating strategies to broaden the coverage of basic infrastructure.

Expected Outcome
At the conclusion of this session, participants will have a preliminary action plan that they can
implement to achieve saturation in indicators related to the basic infrastructure theme in their
respective blocks.

Session Content

S. no. Content Duration Methods Material Required

Action Plan
8.1 Action Planning by BLOs 30 mins TemplateIndependent
work-time

Finalising Presentations on Independent work-

8.2 15 mins
Action Plans time

Session Description and Instructions to the facilitator

8.1 Action Planning by BLOs
• BLOs should identify basis discussions held in previous sessions the priority actions he/she
will take to achieve basic infrastructure indicators in their Block.
• If they believe it’s necessary, suggest they reconsider the BDS strategy.
• After completing the exercise, the facilitator will prompt participants to compile a list of
priority interventions aimed at achieving three key performance indicators (KPIs) for basic
infrastructure.
• Each Block will have a dedicated 20-minute session to prioritise interventions and consult
their BDS document. The facilitator will determine the presentation time allotted to each
Block, taking into account the number of Blocks participating in the training. A total of 25
minutes is reserved for the presentation segment.
• Participants are encouraged to utilize the provided template below for identifying priority
actions or creating a plan of action. Blocks have the flexibility to make improvisations as
they see fit.

24 Basic Infrastructure
 Specify
What additional
three critical By when will
What actions would resources would
Key stakeholders you be able to
you take to saturate you utilise to
indicators that would help saturate this
this indicator? saturate this
you saturate this indicator?
indicator?
indicator?

8.2 Finalising Presentation on Action Plans

• Encourage participants to share their block-level action plans within their respective groups.
• Request each group to select one manifesto or action plan to present during the plenary
session.

Basic Infrastructure 25
 Session 9: Plan for transforming the blocks
(45 mins)
Session Description
The objective of this session is to foster group discussion and facilitate the exchange of ideas,
promoting diverse perspectives and insights.

Session Objective
• To present the Action Plan formulated to tackle the challenges specific to their block within
the context of basic infrastructure.
• Encourage peer learning and cultivate a sense of ownership for the Action Plans.

Expected Outcome
• Participants will feel confident about implementing their action plan within their respective
blocks.
• Participants will comprehend the significance of collaboration in addressing the issues.
• Participants will be capable of clearly delineating the issues, solutions, and the various
stakeholders involved.

Session Content

S. no. Content Duration Methods Material Required

Action-Plan Presentation by 5-6 Presentation

9.1 45 mins
BLOs Sharing

Session Description and Instructions to the facilitator

9.1 Presentation by 5-6 BLOs
• Request the 5-6 participants identified in the previous session to present their action plans.
Encourage other participants to ask questions and provide suggestions to those making
the presentations.
• The facilitator should recap the discussions and clarify to the participants that this document
will serve as a guide for their activities in the immediate future..
• Highlight that this document will need to be reviewed and approved by the district
administration as they will be responsible for driving its implementation. They may need
to make modifications or additions to the document, but participants are expected to take
initiative and share their manifestos with their supervisors on the ground.

26 Basic Infrastructure
 Session 10: Closing (30 mins)

Session Description
This session concludes the day-long training. As the day comes to an end, it is important for
the participants to consolidate their learnings and set a vision for their way forward. Through
thoughtful exploration and expression, participants will articulate their vision for the future, paving
the way for positive change.

Session Objective
• To encourage BLOs to envision the future they aspire to create in their respective blocks.
• To foster a sense of ownership and commitment to community development among BLOs.

Expected Outcome
This shall build a collective sense of purpose among BLOs and empower them to implement their
vision and contribute to the long-term development of their respective blocks.

Session Content

S. no. Content Duration Methods Material Required

Legacy for the block: Vision Legacy Statement

10.1 15 mins Writing Activity
Setting for the block template Handout

10.2 Sharing of the Vision 15 mins Sharing

Session Description and Instructions to the facilitator

10.1 Legacy for the block: Vision Setting for the block
Begin by welcoming the participants from both sectoral groups and ask two of them (one from
each group) to briefly share their experience and key learnings from the sectoral training.
Share with them about the upcoming activity on crafting legacy statements and emphasise on the
importance of setting a strong vision in driving positive change within their blocks.
Facilitator to share the following prompts to help participants craft their statements:

• Reflect on the following guiding questions:

» How do you envision your block evolving with your active involvement?
» What positive changes do you hope to initiate or contribute to?
» How do you want to be remembered by the community members you serve?
• Consider incorporating specific actions, values, and the ultimate outcome you aim to
achieve.
• Stress the importance of making the statement clear, positive and motivational.
Share the following statement template (Annexure 2) with the participants in the form of a handout
and encourage every participant to fill it individually.

Basic Infrastructure 27
 “In the hearts of the people of <mention the name of your block>, I <mention your name>
hope to be remembered as [describe the role or impact you want to be remembered for].
As a BLO, I am committed to making a lasting difference, ensuring that our blocks thrive
with [share what you wish your block to be known for] for a better future.
Together with my fellow BLOs, we create a collective vision that inspires positive change
within our blocks and together work towards achieving the vision of Viksit Bharat.”

10.2 Sharing of the Vision

Post writing the legacy statements, encourage BLOs to stand in a circle and read out their
statements out loud one by one.
Conclude by sharing the key messages:

• Your legacy statement is a powerful tool that aligns your actions with your aspirations.
• All of you shoulder a huge responsibility of transforming your blocks.
• Your vision and commitment contribute to the collective strength of our mission for a better,
more vibrant future for not just your block but also our country.
Thank the participants for their participation and time and wish them all the best in applying the
knowledge and skills they have gained.

28 Basic Infrastructure
 Annexure
Annexure 1: Participant Profile Template

MY PROFILE

Name: __________________________________________________________________________

Organisation: ____________________________________________________________________

District Province: _________________________________________________________________

My job title: ______________________________________________________________________

Length in position ________________________________________________________________

My main responsibilities:___________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________________

One person I admire the most and why:_______________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________

In the last six months, my most significant achievement, my moment of Fame have been

______________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________

This led to transformation in the lives of people in my block in different ways

______________________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________________

Basic Infrastructure 29
 Annexure 2: Legacy Statement Template

“In the hearts of the people of <mention the name of your block>, I <mention your name>
hope to be remembered as [describe the role or impact you want to be remembered for].
As a BLO, I am committed to making a lasting difference, ensuring that our blocks thrive
with [share what you wish your block to be known for] for a better future.
Together with my fellow BLOs, we create a collective vision that inspires positive change
within our blocks and together work towards achieving the vision of Viksit Bharat.”

30 Basic Infrastructure
 Annexure 3: Success stories and best practices

Success Story 1: Mohanbhog RD Block, Sepahijala District, Tripura

Block Development Officer of Mohanbhog RD Block invited each & every beneficiary of PMAY(G)
and their family members to attend one day training cum workshop held at Block conference Hall.
Phase wise training cum workshop was organized where PRI members, local youths and masons
have also attended along with PMAY-G beneficiaries. Massive response was received in all the
workshops. During training cum workshops, discussion were held on house construction process,
technical parameters, design & house typologies, provision of 95 mandays from MGNRGERA &
other entitlements of beneficiary from the scheme guidelines. Engineers, Block level nodal officer
& BDO conducted the workshop which was followed by interactive session with beneficiaries and
all other participants.
During mega field visit, the Block Development Officer has found that a PMAY-G beneficiary named
Kuchungti Debbarma, being a single member of the family and a widow needs special assistance
form Block. Smt. Kuchungti Debbarma of Anandapur Village used to live in dilapidated house
covered with polythene sheets. Sometimes, Kuchungti Debbarma has to live in the neighbouring
house and sometimes in her daughter in-law’s house during rainy and winter season.
Block administration has taken a special drive to complete her house. Accordingly local youths
(PMAYG Mitra) and masons of the village were requested by Block Development Officer to assist
the beneficiary to complete her house. BDO had conducted one meeting with local youths and
deployed the one special team (headed by Junior Engineer) from block to assist the beneficiary
continuously. The auspicious day of 15th August is chosen to start the construction of house. On
15th August, after flag hoisting, Block’s team has started moving towards Kuchungti Debbarma’s
house to start the construction work. All the employees along with BDO, BAC Chairman and the
local youth have come forward for one day shramdaan for construction of her house. The old
house was demolished and arrangement was made for Kuchungti Debbarma to stay in neighbour’s
house.
BDO along with PRI members also used to visit periodically to encourage the beneficiary and local
youths (PMAYG Mitra). The beneficiary has completed the house under supervision of technical
team of Block in successful manner with financial assistance of Rs.1,30,000/- from PMAY-G in 3
instalments directly transferred at her bank account.
Another financial assistance @Rs.12000/- (Twelve thousand only) has been provided to the
beneficiary from Swachha Bharat Mission (Gramin) scheme. The BDO, the BAC Chairman, the
Panchayat Samiti Chairman and other Block staffs have contributed one day shramdan for
construction of the toilet. The beneficiary has completed construction of twin leach pit toilet
under supervision of technical team of Mohanbhog
R.D Block. [Link] Bhowmik, Hon’ble MP participated in the Griha Pravesh Pooja in the
house of Kuchungti Debbarma. Now beneficiary is staying in her new house with much comfort,
safe & healthy condition.

Basic Infrastructure 31
 Best Practices -1 :
Construction of a cost-effective House using sustainable housing Technologies – A Model House
constructed by NIRDPR, Hyderabad
• Total plinth area – 342 sft.
• Single Bed Room House, including toilet and bathroom.
• Total cost of construction: Rs. 2.34 lakhs (including labour)
• Cost of construction per sft – Rs. 683/-
• Sustainable Housing Technologies adopted
» Random Rubble stone masonry for foundation
» Fly Ash bricks & Rat-trap bond technology for walling
» Filler slab method for Roofing
» Mud plastering inside the house
» Painting of outside walls without plastering using eco-friendly paints
» Flooring using local tandoor stones.

Model PMAY-G House Constructed at RTP NIRDPR Hyderabad

Plinth area = 342 sft (House-269 sft + 73 sft for toilet, bathroom and wash area)

Abstract of Materials list with cost

Sl No. Materials Unit Quantity Rate Amount (Rs)

1 Cement Bags 72 405 29,160

2 M Sand Cum 19 1100 20,900

3 Aggregate Cum 9 600 5,400

4 Bricks Nos. 5800 8.25 47,850

5 Steel KG 185 75 13,875

Centering and
6 Sqm 28 450 12,600
shuttering
7 Doors (flush) 3’ x 6’ Nos. 3 3200 9,600
Doors (flush) 2’6”
8 Nos. 2 2850 5,700
x 6’
Windows (2) +
9 sqm 2.8 4025 11,270
Ventilator (1)
10 Tandoor stones Sqm 30 330 9,900

11 Skirting stones RM 50 30 1,500

12 Lime Bags 4 450 1,800

13 Cow dung Loads 0.5 2000 1,000

14 Red soil Loads 0.5 8600 4,300

15 Prakrithik Paint Lit 20 275 5,500

32 Basic Infrastructure
 Water Pipes and
18 taps etc. with pan LS 3,000
etc.
19 Other misc items LS 4,000

Total 1,87,355

External Labour Engaged 26,400

Total With External Labour 2,13,755

Labour from MGNREGA @ Rs. 237/- per head as per the
19,908
norms of Telangana state for 84 man-days
Total Expenditure 2,33,663

Cost of construction per sft including MGNREGA labour component 683

Cost of construction per sft without MGNREGA labour component 625

Additional Items of work for this model house

1 Site development 10,400

Success Stories on PMAY-G – Videos :

• Jammu & Kashmir -

[Link]
watch?v=vFMqP1oMCts&ab_
channel=DirectorRDD

• Dausa, Rajasthan -

[Link]
watch?v=fFIm85XIak8&ab_
channel=VasundharaRaje

Basic Infrastructure 33
34 Basic Infrastructure
Basic Infrastructure 35