Oxford University has recognized India’s PRAGATI (Pro-Active Governance and Timely Implementation) platform as a groundbreaking example of how digital governance can effectively drive progress in infrastructure and social development. Launched in 2015 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, PRAGATI integrates advanced technology with governance to resolve bottlenecks, expedite project implementation, and improve inter-departmental collaboration. A report by Oxford, “From Gridlock to Growth: How Leadership Enables India’s PRAGATI Ecosystem to Power Progress,” highlights the initiative’s success in fostering accountability, efficiency, and innovation. It asserts that PRAGATI’s achievements offer a model for emerging economies aiming to overcome bureaucratic inertia and achieve sustainable growth.
PM Modi’s PRAGATI: A vision for proactive and collaborative covernance
PRAGATI, launched as a multi-purpose and multi-modal platform, serves as a real-time decision-making mechanism that brings together diverse stakeholders, including central and state governments. By leveraging video conferencing, real-time data, and drone feeds, the platform enables efficient monitoring and resolution of challenges associated with large-scale infrastructure and social projects.
Core objectives of PRAGATI:
- To expedite project implementation.
- To foster a collaborative approach among various government agencies.
- To ensure accountability in governance and project execution.
Key features of PRAGATI:
- Integration of technology for real-time monitoring.
- Direct interaction between the Prime Minister and senior officials at both state and central levels.
- A focus on removing administrative silos and improving coordination.
Economic impact of PRAGATI
The economic benefits of PRAGATI are profound, as highlighted by studies from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and the National Institute of Public Finance and Policy (NIPFP).
Multiplier effect:
- For every rupee spent on infrastructure projects, PRAGATI has generated a GDP gain of 2.5 to 3.5 rupees. This underscores its pivotal role in stimulating economic activity.
Resilience during economic uncertainty:
- PRAGATI’s timely implementation of projects has bolstered India’s economic stability amid global uncertainties, demonstrating the importance of effective governance in safeguarding growth.
Infrastructure development:
- Addressed challenges like land acquisition and inter-ministerial coordination.
- Enabled faster execution of projects in sectors like transportation, energy, and urban development.
PRAGATI’s social and environmental contributions
PRAGATI’s influence extends beyond economic growth, contributing to social progress and environmental sustainability:
Social progress:
- Accelerated delivery of essential services, including roads, railways, water, and electricity, improving the quality of life for millions of citizens.
- Prioritized projects in underdeveloped and remote areas to reduce regional disparities.
Environmental sustainability:
- Facilitated faster environmental clearances.
- Promoted the use of green technologies and sustainable practices in infrastructure development.
- Incorporated environmental considerations into project planning and execution.
PRAGATI: A model for global governance innovation
The Oxford report emphasizes that PRAGATI serves as an exemplary case of how governance innovation can transform nations facing developmental challenges:
Lessons for emerging economies:
- Adoption of digital tools for efficient project management.
- Collaborative governance across various administrative levels.
- Focus on sustainability alongside economic growth.
Addressing the middle-income trap:
- PRAGATI demonstrates how targeted investments in infrastructure and effective governance can help nations transition to higher income brackets by fostering sustained economic and social progress.
Scalable and replicable model:
- The platform’s success can inspire similar initiatives in other emerging economies, enabling them to overcome systemic challenges and accelerate growth.
Recognition and responses for PRAGATI
The report’s findings have been widely acknowledged by policymakers and experts. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, responding to the recognition, stated, “PRAGATI represents a wonderful amalgamation of technology and governance, ensuring silos are removed, and projects are completed on time.”
Oxford’s analysis underlines PRAGATI’s role in transforming governance by instilling a “Team India mindset” and fostering a culture of accountability and efficiency.
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