CONTEXT

• PMGSY (Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana) launched on Dec 25, 2000, aims to provide all-weather rural road connectivity.
• Phases:
  • Phase I (2000): Basic connectivity to unconnected habitations.
  • Phase II (2013): Consolidation of existing routes.
  • RCPLWEA (2016): Focus on Left Wing Extremism (LWE)-affected areas.
  • Phase III (2019): Upgradation of existing rural roads.
  • Phase IV (2024): Targets 25,000 unconnected habitations (500+ pop. in plains, 250+ in hilly/NE, 100+ in LWE zones).
• Funding pattern changed in 2015-16:
  • Centrally Sponsored Scheme with Centre:State = 60:40 (90:10 for NE & Himalayan states).
  • Previously a Central Sector Scheme (100% funded by Centre).

CONCEPT

• Objective of PMGSY: Enhance rural road infrastructure, integrate villages with markets/services, and reduce isolation.
• Good Governance via QR Codes:
  • Ensures transparency, citizen participation, and accountability in road maintenance.
  • Public can scan QR code on display boards to provide real-time feedback.
• e-MARG System (electronic Maintenance of Rural Roads):
  • Web and mobile-based solution for monitoring maintenance post-construction (5-year period).
  • Tracks contractor responsibilities, inspections, and complaints.
• Role of AI/ML:
  • Analyses photos submitted by citizens.
  • Supports automated Performance Evaluation (PE) scoring.
  • Helps identify issues needing intervention.

CURRENT

• MoRD directive (June 2025): All states must install QR codes on road maintenance boards under PMGSY.
• Implemented via NRIDA, which provides technical support to states.
• QR-enabled boards will:
  • Include bilingual instructions for citizens.
  • Allow users to submit photos and feedback.
  • Feedback gets linked to Routine Inspections.
• Photos analysed via AI/ML to assist in objective PE and ensure road quality.
• Makes the system more responsive and builds trust with rural citizens.