India’s PRAGATI platform is reshaping governance and infrastructure development. Launched in 2015, it stands for Pro-Active Governance and Timely Implementation. This initiative, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addresses bureaucratic hurdles in project execution. A recent study from the University of Oxford marks its transformative impact on the economy and society.
Overview of PRAGATI
PRAGATI integrates various stakeholders from central and state governments. This collaboration enhances communication and coordination. It utilises real-time data and technology to streamline project management. The platform aims to overcome traditional bureaucratic inertia.
Economic Impact
The economic benefits of PRAGATI are . For every rupee invested in infrastructure, India gains between 2.5 to 3.5 rupees in GDP. This multiplier effect illustrates the importance of efficient infrastructure projects. Timely implementation also strengthens India’s economy during global uncertainties.
Social Progress and Environmental Sustainability
PRAGATI accelerates essential services like roads and electricity. This leads to improved living standards for millions. The initiative also prioritises sustainability. It promotes green technologies and faster environmental clearances. This holistic approach ensures inclusive and sustainable development.
Lessons for Global Governance
The insights from PRAGATI are valuable for other nations. Many countries face challenges related to the Middle-Income Trap. The platform showcases how governance innovation can drive economic and social growth. By leveraging digital tools, India sets an example for emerging economies.
Future of Governance in India
As PRAGATI continues to evolve, its impact will likely expand. The focus on technology and collaboration will remain crucial. This initiative embodies a new era of governance in India, aiming for efficiency and accountability.
Questions for UPSC –
- Critically examine the role of digital governance in enhancing public service delivery in India.
- Discuss the significance of infrastructure development in driving economic growth in emerging economies.
- What are the challenges faced by India in achieving sustainable development? Explain with examples.
- With suitable examples, discuss the importance of collaboration between different levels of government in successful project implementation.
Answer Hints:
1. Critically examine the role of digital governance in enhancing public service delivery in India.
- Digital governance streamlines processes, reducing bureaucratic delays.
- Platforms like PRAGATI utilize real-time data for informed decision-making.
- Enhances transparency and accountability, encouraging public trust.
- Facilitates better resource allocation and project monitoring.
- Empowers citizens through digital access to services and information.
2. Discuss the significance of infrastructure development in driving economic growth in emerging economies.
- Infrastructure investment creates jobs and stimulates local economies.
- Improves connectivity, enhancing trade and market access.
- Drives productivity by reducing transportation and transaction costs.
- Infrastructure projects have a multiplier effect on GDP growth.
- Essential for attracting foreign investment and encouraging innovation.
3. What are the challenges faced by India in achieving sustainable development? Explain with examples.
- Balancing economic growth with environmental conservation remains a challenge.
- Infrastructure projects often face land acquisition issues and public opposition.
- Urbanization leads to increased pollution and resource depletion.
- Need for better waste management and sustainable practices in industries.
- Climate change impacts agriculture and livelihoods, necessitating adaptive strategies.
4. With suitable examples, discuss the importance of collaboration between different levels of government in successful project implementation.
- Collaboration ensures alignment of goals between central and state governments.
- PRAGATI exemplifies effective inter-ministerial coordination for infrastructure projects.
- Shared resources and expertise lead to more efficient project execution.
- Joint efforts can address local challenges, enhancing project relevance.
- Examples include successful road and rail projects that require multi-level cooperation.
