Prime Minister Narendra Modi chairs PRAGATI Meeting, in New Delhi on April 30, 2025.
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi today chaired the 46th PRAGATI meeting, an ICT-based multi-modal platform for Proactive Governance and Timely Implementation involving Central and State governments, to review eight significant infrastructure projects worth Rs 90,000 crore. These projects, spanning three roads, two railways, and two port, shipping, and waterways initiatives, are spread across various States and Union Territories.
During the review of grievance redressal under the Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY), Modi directed all Ministries and Departments to ensure beneficiary identification through biometrics-based Aadhaar authentication or verification. He further instructed exploration of integrating additional programmes into PMMVY, focusing on child care, health and hygiene practices, cleanliness, and other aspects contributing to the well-being of mothers and newborns.
While assessing a Ring Road development project, Modi emphasised its integration into broader urban planning efforts, aligning with the city’s growth trajectory over the next 25 to 30 years. He directed the study of various planning models, prioritising self-sustainability for long-term viability and efficient management, and urged exploration of a Circular Rail Network as a complementary, sustainable public transport alternative.
In reviewing the Jal Marg Vikas Project, Modi advocated for fostering cruise tourism to strengthen community connections along waterway stretches. He highlighted its potential to create business opportunities for artisans and entrepreneurs linked to the ‘One District One Product’ initiative and other local crafts, stimulating economic activity and livelihoods in adjoining regions. He stressed that inland waterways should also drive tourism.
Modi reiterated the importance of leveraging tools like PM GatiShakti for holistic, forward-looking planning to achieve sectoral synergy and efficient infrastructure development. He also directed all stakeholders to regularly update and accurately maintain their databases, emphasising that reliable data is critical for informed decision-making and effective planning.
Since its inception, PRAGATI has reviewed 370 projects with a total cost of approximately Rs 20 lakh crore, underscoring its pivotal role in accelerating India’s infrastructure and governance initiatives.
– global bihari bureau
