The Union Cabinet has approved the continuation of Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana-III (PMGSY-III) beyond March 2025 till March 2028, with a revised total outlay of ₹83,977 crore, according to a statement by the Ministry of Rural Development on Saturday, 18 April.
The scheme focuses on the consolidation of Through Routes and Major Rural Links, aimed at improving connectivity between rural habitations and key infrastructure such as Gramin Agricultural Markets (GrAMs), higher secondary schools and hospitals.
As part of the Cabinet decision, the timeline for completion of roads and bridges in plain areas, as well as roads in hilly areas, has been extended till March 2028.
The deadline for completion of bridges in hilly areas has been extended further till March 2029.
The Cabinet has also allowed works sanctioned before 31 March 2025 but not yet awarded to be taken up for tendering and award.
In addition, 161 long span bridges with an estimated cost of ₹961 crore, which are pending sanction but lie along already approved road alignments, may now be sanctioned and awarded.
The revised financial outlay represents an increase from the original ₹80,250 crore allocation, reflecting the government’s push to ensure timely completion and enhanced quality of rural road infrastructure.
The extension is expected to support rural economic activity by improving market access for agricultural and non-farm products, reducing transportation time and costs, and enhancing income opportunities in rural areas.
Improved connectivity under the scheme is also likely to strengthen access to education and healthcare services, particularly in remote and underserved regions, while generating employment through construction and related activities.
The ministry said that the extension will contribute to inclusive and sustainable development by bridging the rural-urban divide and advancing the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.
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