PMGSY-IV Launch in Odisha: Phases and Digital Tools
Why in the news
PMGSY-IV was launched in Odisha in May 2026, with Rayagada chosen for the state-level event. The phase aims at saturation connectivity, reaching difficult Eastern Ghats terrain so that no habitation stays isolated.
Key facts
- PMGSY-IV period: 2024 to 2029.
- Outlay: ₹70,125 crore.
- Targets: 25,000 unconnected habitations and 62,500 km of new roads.
- Launch district in Odisha: Rayagada.
Phase-wise journey
| Phase | Year | Focus |
|---|---|---|
| PMGSY-I | 2000 | All-weather links to unconnected habitations of 500+ people (plains) and 250+ (hilly/tribal areas) |
| PMGSY-II | 2013 | Consolidation: 50,000 km of existing rural roads upgraded |
| RCPLWEA | 2016 | Left Wing Extremism affected areas, 44 districts, for security mobility and development |
| PMGSY-III | 2019 | Through Routes and Major Rural Links to GrAMs, higher secondary schools and hospitals |
| PMGSY-IV | 2024-2029 | Remaining unconnected habitations, new roads |
Accountability tools
- OMMAS: real-time tracking of physical and financial progress.
- e-MARG: performance-linked maintenance; contractors get paid during the 5-year Defect Liability Period only if the road is kept in shape.
- GPS tracking: compulsory since 2022 for machinery and vehicles.
Key terms
- Habitation: a population cluster whose parts are not split by natural or man-made barriers.
- All-weather road: usable in every season, with proper drainage and culverts to withstand monsoons.
- Centrally Sponsored Scheme: cost shared by Centre and States, implementation by the State.
Exam angle
- Phase-year matching: I (2000), II (2013), RCPLWEA (2016), III (2019), IV (2024-2029).
- Monitoring tools: OMMAS, e-MARG, GPS tracking.
- Rural Development Minister named as of May 2026: Shivraj Singh Chouhan.