pmgsy
pmgsy

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Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) emerged from the vision to connect rural India, initiated by the Government of India on December 25, 2000. The scheme, often abbreviated as PMGSY-I, aimed to ensure all-weather accessibility to previously unconnected habitations, particularly those with populations up to 500 in plain areas as per Census 2001, and 250 or more in Special category States such as those in the North East, Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, as well as Desert Areas and 88 identified Backward Districts, as part of poverty alleviation strategies.

Expansion of Connectivity of PMGSY

As of December 8, 2021, the PMGSY has overseen the construction of a substantial 6,80,040 km of roads, furthering its primary objective of establishing durable, all-weather roads in rural areas. The selection of habitations for connectivity is determined by local bodies such as Panchayati Raj institutions and elected representatives. Initially, the scheme was solely funded by the central government until 2015-16, after which funding responsibilities were shared between the Centre and the States. In states like Jammu & Kashmir, Uttarakhand, and Himachal Pradesh, the Union Government bears 90% of project costs, with the remaining 10% contributed by the State Government. In contrast, for other states, the Union Government typically funds 60% of a project, with the remaining 40% financed by the State Government.

Overview of PMGSY

PMGSY, short for Pradhan Mantri Gramin Sadak Yojana, is a flagship program of the Central Government, aimed at providing all-weather road connectivity to previously isolated habitations. These habitations include areas with a population density of 500 or more in plain regions and 250 or more in hilly, arid, tribal, or underdeveloped regions. Establishing robust transport infrastructure not only facilitates access to various socio-economic services but also boosts agricultural income and creates employment opportunities, contributing significantly to long-term poverty eradication efforts. The responsibility of implementing PMGSY lies with the Ministry of Rural Development and respective state governments.

Current Progress and Future Goals of Pradhan Mantri Gramin Sadak Yojana

Recent data obtained through surveys conducted under PMGSY indicates approximately 167,000 previously unconnected habitations eligible for coverage under the scheme. This involves both the upgrading of 368,000 km of existing roads and the construction of approximately 371,000 km of new roads, marking a substantial step towards enhancing rural connectivity and development.

Also Read: Latest Updates on Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY)-2023-24

Key Features of PMGSY

PMGSY incorporates several noteworthy features, including:

  1. Decentralized Planning: Ensuring proper planning at local levels for road construction.
  2. Adherence to Standards: Construction of roads following guidelines provided by the Indian Road Congress and Rural Roads Manual.
  3. Quality Management: Implementation of a robust 3-tier quality management system.
  4. Continuous Funding: Ensuring an uninterrupted flow of funds to support ongoing projects.

Benefits of PMGSY

The advantages offered by PMGSY include:

  1. Enhanced Connectivity: Provision of all-weather connectivity to previously isolated habitations.
  2. Overall Development: Facilitation of easy movement of goods and vehicles, contributing to the holistic development of the country.
  3. Employment Opportunities: Creation of better employment prospects for rural residents through improved road connectivity.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for PMGSY, a habitation must meet the following criteria:

  1. Population Cluster: Defined as a settled area with a consistent population over time, denoted by local terms such as Majras, Desam, Hamlets, Tolas, and Dhanis.
  2. Population Threshold: Habitats must have a population exceeding 500 in plain areas and 250 in hilly regions, as per the 2001 Census.

Application Process and Documentation

The application process for PMGSY involves:

  1. Offline Procedure: The District Panchayat finalizes the list of road works annually based on allocated funds and prioritizes new connectivity within the Core Network.
  2. Document Requirements: Submission of various documents including Utilization Certificates, Bank Certificates, Physical Completion Certificates, Audited Financial Statements, and Certifications regarding Maintenance Fund Utilization.

PMGSY Phases and Extensions

PMGSY operates in multiple phases, each aimed at enhancing rural connectivity and infrastructure:

  1. PMGSY Phase I: Initiated in 2000, targeting 500 eligible unconnected habitations in plain areas and 250 in hilly states. This phase includes the construction of roads covering 1,78,184 habitations and a cumulative route length of 6,45,627 kilometers, along with 7,523 bridges.
  2. PMGSY Phase II: Authorized in May 2013, focusing on the renovation of existing rural roads to strengthen rural infrastructure. This phase aims to consolidate 50,000 kilometers of the existing rural road network.
  3. PMGSY Phase III: Commenced in 2019, with a focus on consolidating 1,25,000 km of existing roads and establishing significant rural linkages connecting habitations to agricultural markets, secondary institutions, and healthcare facilities. This phase is slated to continue until March 2025.

Conclusion

Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana stands as a testament to the government’s commitment to bridging the rural-urban divide by providing vital connectivity to previously neglected habitations. With its robust framework, decentralized approach, and continuous funding, PMGSY continues to pave the way for enhanced rural development, economic growth, and improved quality of life for millions across India.

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