Bhopal – Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan has emphasized the critical role of village roads in fostering prosperity, during the launch of projects worth Rs 1,763.08 crore under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY-IV). The initiative marks the scheme’s silver jubilee in Madhya Pradesh, highlighting the government’s commitment to rural development.
Addressing a gathering in Bherunda, located in the Sehore district, Chouhan, who serves as the Union minister for agriculture, farmers’ welfare, and rural development, highlighted the extensive road projects being undertaken across the state. Bherunda falls within the Vidisha Lok Sabha seat, which Chouhan has represented for six terms. He articulated that village roads are more than just pathways; they are vital conduits to prosperity, respect, education, healthcare, markets, and various opportunities. Information reaching TahirRihat.com suggests that the projects are aimed at transforming the lives of farmers, women, and the underprivileged, reflecting Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for inclusive growth.
Chouhan asserted that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, India is making swift progress toward becoming a glorious, proud, self-reliant, prosperous, and developed nation. He underscored the importance of infrastructure development in achieving this vision. The PMGSY-IV scheme has approved the construction of 973 roads spanning 2,117.52 km, requiring a total investment of Rs 1,763.08 crore. These projects will cover 987 settlements within Madhya Pradesh, significantly enhancing connectivity and accessibility for numerous communities.
The Vidisha region is set to benefit substantially, with approval granted for 259 roads spanning 600.393 km. These roads will serve 264 settlements, marking a significant achievement in Chouhan’s regional development agenda. The Union minister conveyed that road construction worth over Rs 500 crore will be executed in the Vidisha parliamentary constituency, emphasizing his commitment to ensuring that no village remains isolated due to lack of road access.
Chouhan clarified that all eligible roads in Madhya Pradesh that meet the PMGSY criteria will receive approval, reinforcing the state’s dedication to comprehensive rural connectivity. He used the occasion to contrast the current progress with the conditions during the previous Congress administration, recalling the challenges of dilapidated roads and frequent electricity shortages. He asserted that Madhya Pradesh has now emerged as a leader in rural road construction, showcasing the transformative impact of focused development initiatives.
Further bolstering infrastructure development, projects under PM-JANMAN, spanning 384.34 km, have been approved at a cost of Rs 261.81 crore, covering 168 settlements in the state. The commitment extends beyond immediate projects, with Madhya Pradesh receiving an allocation of Rs 830 crore out of the total indicative allocation of Rs 18,907 crore for PMGSY for 2026-27. Chouhan described this allocation as a step that will reinvigorate the state’s development trajectory.
During the event, Chouhan symbolically handed over a sanction of Rs 2,055 crore under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana-Gramin to Chief Minister Mohan Yadav. The initiative aims to ensure that every poor person has a permanent home, reflecting the government’s focus on addressing basic needs and improving living standards. Chouhan assured that a new survey will be conducted to physically verify eligible families and extend the benefits of the housing scheme to all deserving beneficiaries.
Highlighting the importance of economic empowerment for women, Chouhan announced that the Lakhpati Didi Abhiyan will be further accelerated through self-help groups, creating opportunities for women to enhance their livelihoods and contribute to the economy. He also addressed farmer-related issues, asserting that while the opposition has been critical, the BJP government has consistently provided solutions.
He reassured farmers that no eligible individual would be treated unfairly in wheat procurement and that ongoing efforts would be directed towards creating more beneficial mechanisms for land acquisition, ensuring equitable outcomes for all stakeholders. Chief Minister Mohan Yadav, speaking at the event, lauded the coordinated approach between the state and the Centre in addressing various developmental issues.
The launch event was attended by Union Ministers of State Kamlesh Paswan and Dr. Chandrashekhar Pemmasani, along with several state ministers and legislators. States and Union Territories with outstanding performances were recognized and honored during the ceremony. (PTI reported that)
Tahir Rihat (also known as Tahir Bilal) is an independent journalist, activist, and digital media professional from the Chenab Valley of Jammu and Kashmir, India. He is best known for his work as the Online Editor at The Chenab Times.