NEW DELHI: The ‘Pragati’ platform fast tracked more than 340 projects worth over Rs 17.3 lakh crore by June 2023, including some delayed by 20 years, an Oxford University study stated, highlighting that by embracing digital tools and fostering collaboration across all levels of govt, “India has charted a path that other emerging economies can emulate”.
The digital platform was launched by PM Narendra Modi in 2015 for reviewing progress of infrastructure projects and key central government schemes.
“India’s experience accelerating large infrastructure projects may offer lessons for global leaders who also seek to make infrastructure a game changer for economic development,” the study, titled ‘From Gridlock to Growth’, released on Monday stated.
The meeting for the web-based multi-modal ‘Pragati’ platform is chaired by the PM and is attended by all secretaries of the Union government and chief secretaries of states. Till now, the PM has chaired 44 ‘Pragati’ meetings and reviewed 355 projects worth little over Rs 18 lakh crore.
The study stated the hands-on involvement by India’s top leader is a key feature of the ‘Pragati’ platform and is an essential component of its success. The scrutiny by the country’s top executive “lends weight and urgency to infrastructure initiatives, helping rally resources, expedite decision-making, galvanise teams, and motivate workers on the ground”, it stated. The study has highlighted the success of eight mega infrastructure projects reviewed in ‘Pragati’ meetings.
While the monthly meetings have been less in the past three years — only one this year, three in 2023, one in 2022 and four in 2021 — officials said most issues, including in states, get resolved as soon as the meeting agenda is circulated.
Hailing the study, Modi in a post on X said, “Pragati represents a wonderful amalgamation of technology and governance, ensuring silos are removed and projects are completed on time. Over the years, these sessions have led to substantive benefits, which have greatly benefited people.”
