Cabinet approves Continuation of Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana-III (PMGSY-III)

The Union Cabinet has approved the continuation of Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana Phase III (PMGSY-III) beyond March 2025 up to March 2028, with a revised outlay of ₹83,977 crore.

Objective of PMGSY-III

• Focuses on consolidation and upgradation of existing rural roads.
• Targets Through Routes and Major Rural Links connecting habitations to:
  • Gramin Agricultural Markets (GrAMs)
  • Higher Secondary Schools
  • Hospitals
• Aims to strengthen farm-to-market connectivity and improve access to essential services.

Significance of Extension

• Ensures completion of targeted 1,25,000 km road upgradation.
• Helps realise full socio-economic benefits, including rural mobility, market access, and service delivery.

About PMGSY

Launched on 25 December 2000, PMGSY is a flagship programme to provide all-weather road connectivity to unconnected rural habitations.

Phases of PMGSY

• Phase I (2000): Core focus on connecting eligible unconnected habitations.
• Phase II (2013): Emphasis on strengthening existing rural road networks for better efficiency.
• PMGSY-III (2019): Focus on consolidation of rural roads and improving linkages to markets, schools, and healthcare.

Special Initiative

• Road Connectivity Project for Left Wing Extremism Affected Areas (RCPLWEA), launched in 2016:
  • Targets 44 worst LWE-affected districts across 9 States.
  • Aims to enhance security, accessibility, and development in these regions.

PMGSY Phase IV (2024)

• Approved on 11 September 2024.
• Objective: Provide connectivity to 25,000 unconnected habitations.
• Eligibility based on Census 2011 population:
  • 500+ (plain areas)
  • 250+ (North-East, hill States/UTs)
  • Includes tribal (Schedule V), aspirational districts, and desert areas

Progress So Far (as of August 2025)

• 1,91,282 roads sanctioned
• Covering 8,38,611 km
• 12,146 bridges constructed