NEW DELHI: An Oxford University study “From Gridlock to Growth: How Leadership Enables India’s PRAGATI Ecosystem to Power Progress,” has lauded Prime Minister Modi’s leadership and the innovative PRAGATI platform for accelerating 340 infrastructure projects across India, collectively worth $201 billion. These projects, many of which had been delayed for three to 20 years, now showcase India’s governance transformation.

From rail, roads, power, and air, the PRAGATI platform has emerged as a pivotal tool in India’s drive for progress. Launched in 2015 under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, PRAGATI—Pro-Active Governance and Timely Implementation—combines cutting-edge digital tools with a culture of accountability to fast-track large-scale infrastructure projects and social programs.

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Over the past decade, India has built 50,000 kilometres of National Highways, doubled its airport count, and completed engineering marvels like the Chenab Bridge, the world’s highest rail arch. These accomplishments align with the “Viksit Bharat 2047” vision to establish India as a $30 trillion economy by its centenary of independence.

According to the Reserve Bank of India, for every rupee invested in infrastructure, the country gains 2.5 to 3.5 rupees in GDP. PRAGATI has been instrumental in enabling real-time monitoring and resolving inter-ministerial disputes, avoiding delays and cost overruns. Its digital dashboard leverages technologies like drone feeds, GPS tracking, and video conferencing, inspiring complementary platforms such as PM Gati Shakti and PARIVESH, which emphasize environmental sustainability and inter-agency collaboration.

Prime Minister Modi’s direct involvement in monthly PRAGATI meetings has been a cornerstone of its success. These sessions, which include central and state officials, foster a “Team India” spirit that transcends political divisions.

PRAGATI’s impact extends beyond economic growth. By expediting projects like roads and electricity, it has improved living standards for millions.

The Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA) project, which was approved in 2007 and is being built through a public-private partnership led by Maharashtra’s City and Industrial Development Corporation, faced significant delays due to challenges like land acquisition, which required relocating thousands of households, and environmental concerns over mangrove forests. These issues were resolved through interventions facilitated by the PRAGATI platform. Key actions included extending relocation deadlines, offering market-rate compensation, and obtaining environmental clearances.

While talking about power, PRAGATI reviews in 2015 and 2021 expedited the approval process for securing 800 acres of forested land and obtaining coal transport clearances for the North Karanpura Thermal Power Plant, a 1,980 MW project by NTPC in Jharkhand. It is now scheduled to become operational this year.

Similarly, the long-stalled Bogibeel Bridge in Assam was completed after PRAGATI’s intervention, and the Bengaluru Metro project has also seen significant progress under this system.