One of India’s most impactful rural infrastructure initiatives, the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) marks its 25th anniversary today. Launched on 25th December 2000 to ensure all-weather connectivity to previously unconnected rural habitations, the programme has emerged as a key enabler of agricultural growth, employment generation, improved access to education and health services, and poverty alleviation. 

Since its inception, over 8 lakh 25 thousand kilometres of rural roads have been sanctioned under PM Gram Sadak Yojana, with more than 7 lakh 87 thousand kilometres completed. Budgetary allocations to the Scheme in recent years reflect the government’s sustained emphasis on strengthening rural road connectivity. Around 19 thousand crore rupees have been allocated for the financial year 2025-26. Under Phase IV, a total road length of 62 thousand 500 kilometers will be constructed between the financial years 2024-25 and 2028-29, with an overall financial outlay of over 70 thousand crore.

Meanwhile, the Online Management, Monitoring, and Accounting System (OMMAS) enables real-time monitoring, ensuring physical and financial progress remains aligned with the targets assigned to states. Environmentally sustainable materials such as fly ash, slag, construction and demolition waste, waste plastic, geosynthetics and bio-bitumen are also actively promoted.

With nearly 96 per cent of the sanctioned rural road length completed, the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana has significantly enhanced rural accessibility, strengthened market linkages, improved access to education and healthcare, and accelerated inclusive economic growth.