Centre Allocates Rs 18,907 Crore for 26,474 km of Rural Roads to Improve Village Connectivity and Access to Markets

The Central Government has earmarked ₹18,907 crore for rural road infrastructure development in FY 2026-27. The allocation will be used to construct 26,474 kilometres of rural roads under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) and related rural connectivity initiatives.

The road construction target for FY 2026-27 is 69% higher than the actual construction achieved in the previous financial year. The government aims to improve last-mile connectivity, particularly in remote and underserved villages.

Better roads will make it easier for villagers to access markets, schools, hospitals, banks, and government offices. Improved connectivity is expected to enhance access to essential services and create new economic opportunities in rural areas.

Rural roads also help farmers transport their produce more efficiently and at lower costs. Improved connectivity strengthens links between villages, buyers, and supply chains, helping farmers access larger markets and secure better prices for their products.

The government has asked states to complete connectivity to all remaining eligible unconnected habitations under various phases of PMGSY. The focus remains on extending all-weather road access to villages that still lack reliable connectivity.

Special attention is being given to tribal regions, particularly areas inhabited by Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs). Improved road connectivity in these regions is expected to support access to healthcare, education, and government welfare schemes.

The programme also covers districts affected by Left Wing Extremism under the Road Connectivity Project for Left Wing Extremism Affected Areas (RCPLWEA). Better road infrastructure in these regions is considered important for both economic development and administrative outreach.

The Centre has directed states to accelerate the preparation of detailed project reports, land acquisition, forest clearances, and the completion of pending projects. The Ministry of Rural Development has also stressed the need to ensure that roads are completed on time while maintaining high construction standards and durability.

State authorities have been instructed to strengthen inspections and improve monitoring during the construction phase. The government is also promoting the adoption of the e-MARG digital platform, which enables real-time monitoring of road maintenance activities and payments.

The platform is expected to improve transparency, accountability, and efficiency in the maintenance of rural roads. Rural roads form the largest segment of India’s road network and play a critical role in supporting inclusive development across the country.

The latest allocation reflects the government’s continued focus on rural roads as a key driver of economic growth. By improving connectivity, the programme aims to connect remote communities with opportunities, services, and markets, helping to strengthen rural livelihoods and support broader economic development.