Ensure faster implementation: PM Modi flags project delays in key review meet

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday chaired the 51st PRAGATI meeting to review infrastructure projects worth Rs 30,000 crore across nine states, while stressing the need for a more proactive and time-bound approach in removing bottlenecks and ensuring timely execution of key public projects.

According to a PIB press release, the Prime Minister pushed for expanded rooftop solar coverage in cities and urged state governments to fast-track waste management infrastructure under Swachh Bharat Mission 2.0.

PRAGATI is an ICT-enabled multi-modal platform for Pro-Active Governance and Timely Implementation, aimed at integrating efforts of the Centre and states for faster execution of public projects.

SOLAR POWER, WASTE MANAGEMENT IN FOCUS

While reviewing power sector projects, PM Modi stressed the need to accelerate rooftop solar adoption in urban areas, particularly in cities, residential clusters and public institutions. He said rooftop solar should be implemented in a “mission mode” to reduce electricity costs, improve energy security and promote clean energy at the household level.

The Prime Minister also referred to the PM Surya Ghar Yojana, which provides direct financial subsidies to households for installing rooftop solar systems, with the aim of enabling up to 300 units of free electricity per month.

He further emphasised effective implementation of Swachh Bharat Mission 2.0, stating that the focus must go beyond infrastructure creation to measurable outcomes through monitoring, citizen participation and convergence among stakeholders.

PM Modi asked states to expedite solid waste management infrastructure, including waste processing plants and GOBARdhan units, which are key components of the Swachh Bharat Mission 2.0, the government’s flagship sanitation and waste management programme.

OPTIMISING INDIA'S WATER POWER

During the review of the Ken-Betwa River Inter-linking Project, the Prime Minister said it should serve as a model for resolving interstate water disputes through cooperation, timely clearances, technology-based monitoring and mission-mode execution.

The project will transfer surplus water from the Ken River in Madhya Pradesh to the Betwa in Uttar Pradesh to irrigate drought-prone Bundelkhand.

He also urged states to explore similar river-linking, water conservation, groundwater recharge and efficient irrigation projects to ensure long-term water security.

The Prime Minister also emphasised the need to explore innovative use of canal networks, including installing solar panels along and over canals for clean electricity generation. He said this would optimise land use, reduce evaporation losses, and unlock additional economic value from water infrastructure.

PM FLAGS INFRA DELAYS

PM Modi further underlined that delays in public projects not only escalate costs but also deprive citizens of timely access to essential infrastructure and development benefits.

He called for a more proactive and time-bound approach from ministries, departments and state governments to clear pending issues, remove bottlenecks and ensure faster implementation of projects and schemes.

PM Modi’s emphasis on timely delivery of public projects comes against the backdrop of economic concerns linked to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, and appears aimed at sustaining the momentum of infrastructure development amid potential headwinds and medium-term uncertainties.

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