Madhya Pradesh’s government has approved a ₹21,630 crore plan to connect 20,600 remote villages with cities through paved roads, prioritizing all-weather connectivity. The initiative, leveraging schemes like PMGSY, aims to boost rural economies, education, and healthcare access. Chief Minister Mohan Yadav targets 100% rural road connectivity within three years, transforming the state’s infrastructure landscape.
Madhya Pradesh Unveils ₹21,630 Crore Plan for Rural Connectivity
The Madhya Pradesh government has launched a transformative initiative to enhance rural connectivity, approving a ₹21,630 crore plan to link 20,600 remote settlements with paved roads. Announced in June 2025, this ambitious project aims to connect every village with a population of over 100 to urban centers, prioritizing areas lacking all-weather roads. The plan integrates central schemes like the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) and the Remote Village Road Connectivity Scheme to ensure seamless implementation.
Chief Minister Mohan Yadav emphasized the urgency of the project, directing officials to adhere to strict timelines. As of April 2025, 50,658 settlements in the state were already connected by roads, leaving 26,798 yet to be linked. The government’s goal is to achieve 100% rural road connectivity within three years, a milestone Yadav described as critical for inclusive development. “This is not just about building roads but about bridging economic and social gaps,” he stated during a review meeting in Bhopal.
The initiative is expected to significantly impact rural economies by facilitating easier access to markets, reducing transportation costs for traders and farmers. Improved connectivity will also enhance access to education and healthcare, enabling children to attend schools regularly and families to reach medical facilities without the challenges of treacherous journeys. For instance, regions like Guna are set to benefit, with local communities already expressing optimism about the potential for growth.
The plan aligns with the broader Viksit Bharat 2047 vision, where infrastructure serves as a catalyst for industrial growth, urban expansion, and citizen well-being. Minister of State for Road Transport and Highways, Ajay Tamta, highlighted the role of technology in ensuring road safety and project efficiency during a recent meeting at IIT Delhi. The state is also exploring innovative maintenance strategies, with dedicated funds allocated through State Rural Roads Development Agencies to ensure the longevity of these roads.
While the project has garnered widespread support, challenges remain. Some villagers have expressed concerns about land acquisition and the pace of implementation, citing past delays in similar projects. The government has assured transparency and community involvement to address these issues. With tenders already in progress and a clear roadmap laid out, Madhya Pradesh is poised to redefine rural connectivity, setting a model for other states to follow.
Disclaimer: This article is based on reports and information available from credible sources, including government announcements and news outlets. The data reflects developments as of July 2025. Readers are advised to verify details through official channels for the latest updates.