A recent Oxford University study, “From Gridlock to Growth: How Leadership Enables India’s Pragati Ecosystem to Power Progress,” highlights how Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Pragati platform has revolutionized project execution in India. is Launched in 2015, Pragati, short for pro-active governance and timely implementation, has facilitated the resolution of bureaucratic challenges, speeding up the completion of key infrastructure projects.
As of June 2023, over 340 projects worth ₹17.05 lakh crore ($205 billion) had been reviewed under Pragati. Projects spanning the rail, road, power and aviation sectors have seen significant progress with real-time data, drone feeds and video conferencing streamlining processes. The study credits Modi’s hands-on leadership for driving urgency and accountability, saying, “This inquiry lends weight and urgency to infrastructure initiatives, helping rally resources and speeding up decision-making.”
Eight transformative projects under progress
Bogibeel Rail and Road Bridge, Assam
Originally sanctioned in 1998, the ₹ 5,920 crore project was pending for more than two decades. A progress review in 2015 resolved the bottlenecks, leading to its inauguration in December 2018.
Jammu Udhampur Srinagar Baramulla Rail Link, Jammu and Kashmir
Approved in 1995, the project underwent a paradigm shift after the Pragati intervention in 2015. With 38 tunnels and 931 bridges, it is set to be completed by 2025, connecting the Kashmir Valley to the rest of India.
Bangalore Metro Rail Project, Karnataka
Phase 1 was commissioned in 2017 after overcoming major land acquisition challenges. Pragati’s intervention accelerated progress to subsequent phases, with Phase 2 expected by 2026.
Haridaspur-Pardeep Rail Line, Odisha
Delayed for more than a decade, the 82 km project was accelerated after the 2018 progress reviews. This now halves the travel time between the mining hub and the Paradip port.
Dahisar-Surat Highway, Maharashtra-Gujarat
A 2014 progress review of this 239-km highway expansion faced land acquisition hurdles until last-mile issues were resolved, enabling it to be completed on time.
Varanasi-Aurangabad Highway, UP-Bihar
Stalled for years due to land acquisition challenges, this road widening project has seen significant progress since the 2016 progress reviews and is nearing completion.
North Karanpura Thermal Power Plant, Jharkhand
Approved in 2014, this 1,980 MW power plant faced delays until progress accelerated on lease agreements and water resource approvals. It is slated to be operational in 2024.
Navi Mumbai International Airport, Maharashtra
Plagued by delays in land acquisition since 2007, Pragati’s intervention in 2015 resolved the disputes, and construction is scheduled to be completed by December 2024.
Progress has not only accelerated stalled projects but also promoted sustainable practices by integrating green technology and facilitating environmental clearances, the report said. As the Oxford study notes, “By embracing digital tools and fostering collaboration, India has blazed a trail that other emerging economies can emulate.”
