New Delhi : The Union Cabinet, chaired by Narendra Modi, has approved the continuation of Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana-III beyond March 2025, extending the scheme’s implementation timeline up to March 2028.
The programme focuses on the consolidation of through routes and major rural links connecting habitations to Gramin Agricultural Markets (GrAMs), higher secondary schools and hospitals. The Cabinet has also approved a revised financial outlay of ₹83,977 crore, up from the earlier ₹80,250 crore.
As part of the decision, timelines have been extended for the completion of roads and bridges in plain areas and roads in hilly regions until March 2028, while bridges in hilly areas will have an extended deadline until March 2029. Additionally, works sanctioned before March 31, 2025, but not yet awarded, will now be taken up for tendering and execution.
The Cabinet also cleared the sanctioning and execution of 161 long-span bridges, estimated at ₹961 crore, which are aligned with already approved road projects.
The extension is expected to significantly enhance rural connectivity, improving access to markets, education and healthcare services, particularly in remote and underserved areas. By reducing transportation time and costs, the scheme is set to boost rural trade, agricultural productivity and incomes.
The continued implementation of Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana-III is also projected to generate substantial employment opportunities through infrastructure development and allied economic activities, contributing to inclusive growth and bridging the rural-urban divide in line with the vision of a developed India.
No Comments: