PMGSY stands for Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana. Launched in 2000, this government-funded scheme aims to enhance rural connectivity by constructing all-weather roads that link unconnected habitations with populations of 500 or more.
Objectives of PMGSY
The primary objectives of PMGSY are:
- To provide all-weather road connectivity to unconnected rural habitations with populations of 500 or more.
- To facilitate access to social and economic services, such as schools, health clinics, and markets.
- To alleviate poverty and improve livelihoods in rural areas by enhancing access to economic opportunities.
- To promote social inclusion and gender equity by connecting marginalized communities.
- To improve overall rural connectivity and foster rural development.
Phases of PMGSY
PMGSY is implemented in three phases:
Phase 1:
- Focuses on connecting habitations with populations of 1000 or more (500 in hilly and tribal areas).
- Aims to provide all-weather road connectivity to unconnected rural habitations.
Phase 2:
- Involves upgrading existing village roads to enhance rural infrastructure.
- Targets a road length of 50,000 km during the 12th Five-Year Plan period, with the Centre covering 75% of the cost and the states covering 25%.
Phase 3:
- Focuses on consolidating Through Routes and Major Rural Links that connect habitations to Gramin Agricultural Markets (GrAMs), higher secondary schools, and hospitals.
- Proposes to consolidate 1,25,000 km of road length in the states.
Final Word
PMGSY, or Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana, has significantly improved rural connectivity in India, promoting economic growth and enhancing access to healthcare and education. While the scheme has achieved considerable success in integrating rural areas with the mainstream, continued efforts are needed to ensure that all rural regions are connected with quality roads.
