Cabinet Extends PMGSY-III Till March 2028

The Union Cabinet has approved the continuation of Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana-III (PMGSY-III) beyond March 2025 till March 2028, reinforcing the government’s focus on rural connectivity and infrastructure development. Chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the decision aims to ensure the completion of key road and bridge projects that connect villages with agricultural markets, schools and hospitals. The revised total outlay of the scheme has been increased to Rs 83,977 crore from the earlier Rs 80,250 crore.

Key approvals under PMGSY-III

The Cabinet has extended the timeline till March 2028 for completion of roads and bridges in plain areas and roads in hilly regions. For bridges in hilly areas, the deadline has been further extended till March 2029. Projects sanctioned before 31 March 2025 but not yet awarded can now be taken up for tendering and execution. This step is expected to remove delays and improve project implementation.

Long-span bridges receive push

A major decision includes approval for 161 Long Span Bridges (LSBs), with an estimated cost of Rs 961 crore. These bridges are pending sanction but lie on the alignment of already approved roads under PMGSY-III. Their construction will improve transport continuity in difficult terrains and strengthen rural road networks, especially in remote and hilly regions where bridge connectivity is critical.

Economic and social benefits

The government stated that the extension of PMGSY-III will help achieve its full socio-economic goals by completing targeted road upgrades. Better roads will improve access to Gramin Agricultural Markets (GrAMs), helping farmers transport produce faster and at lower cost. It will also improve access to higher secondary schools and hospitals, especially for people living in underserved rural areas. Reduced travel time and better service delivery are expected to raise rural incomes and quality of life.

Important Facts for Exams

• PMGSY was launched in December 2000 to provide all-weather rural road connectivity.
• PMGSY-III focuses on upgrading through routes and major rural links instead of only creating new roads.
• Gramin Agricultural Markets (GrAMs) are key connectivity targets under PMGSY-III.
• The revised outlay for PMGSY-III now stands at Rs 83,977 crore.

Support for Viksit Bharat 2047

The continued implementation of PMGSY-III is also expected to generate employment through construction work and support rural businesses and services. Improved transport links will help bridge the rural-urban divide and promote inclusive growth. The government believes the scheme will play an important role in achieving the broader vision of Viksit Bharat 2047 by strengthening rural infrastructure and ensuring balanced national development.