Boosting Rural Connectivity: PMGSY-III Extended to 2028

The Union Cabinet's extension of the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana-III (PMGSY-III) until March 2028 marks a major advancement in rural development. With increased funding and new projects, the initiative aims to strengthen rural infrastructure, boost connectivity, and empower communities across India's hill states like Himachal Pradesh.

The Union Cabinet has approved the extension of the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana-III (PMGSY-III) until March 2028, a move hailed as transformative for rural infrastructure by Himachal Pradesh BJP chief, Dr Rajeev Bindal. This decision, praised for its potential to bolster rural development, highlights the government's commitment to connectivity and economic opportunities in these areas.

With an allocated budget of Rs 83,977 crore, up from Rs 80,250 crore, the scheme plans to construct 161 new bridges at an estimated cost of Rs 961 crore. The initiative aims to bridge infrastructure gaps, specifically addressing challenging terrains in hill states with an extended completion timeline.

In hill states like Himachal Pradesh, roads serve as lifelines. Dr Bindal emphasized the manifold benefits, such as improved access to essential services, stimulated tourism, enhanced market linkages for agriculture, reduced transportation costs, and increased rural employment, all contributing to the vision of a Viksit Bharat by 2047.