The Union Cabinet on Saturday approved the continuation of Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana-III (PMGSY-III) till March 2028
“The expansion involves consolidation of through routes and major rural links connecting habitations to Gramin Agricultural Markets (GrAMs), Higher Secondary Schools and Hospitals. The revised outlay of the scheme will be Rs 83,977 crore,” a statement by the Ministry of Rural Development said.
It said that the extension of the timeline will enable the completion of road construction works in areas where connectivity remains a challenge. The government sanctioned an additional allocation of over Rs 3,727 crore for the scheme, aimed at improving rural road connectivity across the country.
The Cabinet also approved the extension of the timeline till March 2028 for the completion of roads and bridges in plain areas and roads in hilly areas, and extension of the timeline till March 2029 for the completion of bridges in hilly areas
In addition, works sanctioned before March 31, 2025, but unawarded till now, may be taken up for tender or award, the Ministry said.
The government has also extended till March 2028 completion of roads and bridges in plain areas and roads in hilly areas. Extension of timeline till March 2029 for completion of bridges in hilly areas has also been done.
The extension of the timeline of PMGSY-III will enable the full realisation of its intended socio-economic benefits by ensuring completion of the targeted upgradation of rural roads. It will significantly boost the rural economy and trade by enhancing market access for agricultural and non-farm products, reducing transportation time and costs, and thereby improving rural incomes, the ministry said.
Improved connectivity will facilitate better access to education and healthcare institutions, ensuring the timely delivery of essential services, particularly in remote and underserved areas.
The continued implementation will also generate substantial employment opportunities, both directly through construction activities and indirectly by promoting rural enterprises and services.
“Overall, the extension will contribute to inclusive and sustainable development by bridging the rural-urban divide and advancing the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047,” the statement added.
