Construction of rural roads brings multifaceted benefits to the hitherto deprived rural areas and is an effective poverty reduction strategy. This is the tableau theme of Ministry of Rural Development in the Republic Day Parade on January 26, 2004.
In his address on August 15, 2000, the Prime Minister announced the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY), as a 100% Centrally funded Scheme, with the target of connecting every habitation that has a population of more than 1000 within the next 3 years and every village with a population of more than 500 by the year 2007, through good all-weather roads, complete with cross drainage. The Programme was launched on 25th December 2000 and is estimated to cost Rs. 60,000 crore. So far during these three years, over Rs. 8000 crore has already been expended on the programme. About 27,000 habitations have been covered under the programme for providing new connectivity and about 80,000 Kms. of all- weather rural roads are being constructed.
The economic benefits of rural roads include increase in agricultural and dairy production, reduction in transport costs, creation of new employment opportunities, lower prices for essential commodities to rural consumers, better climate for setting up cottage and agro-Industries etc. The impact of the new links on the social life of the rural population is reflected in the form of better medical care, more attendance in schools/colleges, better availability of public services, higher levels of social interaction etc. Rural roads change life patterns dramatically. Improved connectivity makes daily commutation to urban work places easier, reduces migrations, increases rural employment and improves family life. Rural connectivity also enables increased penetration of better quality consumer items and durable, thus improving quality of life.
The tableau depicts some of the visible benefits accruing to rural areas from this new connectivity – small shops spring up by the roadside. Passenger bus services come up on the road. Car and two-wheeler ownership in rural areas increases, along with associated employment. Agricultural production increases due to better access to inputs and markets.
(Release ID :672)