Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana–III (PMGSY–III) was launched in 2019 to consolidate and upgrade 125,000 km of through-routes and major rural roads that connect habitations to key facilities such as Gramin Agricultural Markets (GrAMs), higher secondary schools, and hospitals. The initial completion deadline for PMGSY–III was set for March 2025.
However, based on requests received from various States and Union Territories, the Government has approved an extension of the deadline to March 2026 to ensure ongoing projects are completed.
As part of the 125,000 km targeted road length under PMGSY–III, a total of 122,393 km has been sanctioned. Of this, 101,623 km (83%) has been constructed across the country as of 01 December 2025.
Impact of PMGSY–III on Rural Connectivity and Development
The expansion of rural roads under PMGSY–III has significantly improved access to schools, healthcare centres, and agricultural markets, bringing transformative changes to rural households. Key benefits include:
Improved access to markets for people and goods
Reduced mortality due to better healthcare access
Increased institutional deliveries at health centres
Greater educational opportunities for rural children
The enhanced connectivity is also expected to increase school enrolment, improve delivery of health services, and boost employment in both agricultural and non-agricultural sectors.
According to a comprehensive World Bank impact assessment (2019) across multiple Indian states, improvements in rural roads under PMGSY have led to:
10% increase in girls’ school enrolment
7% rise in the number of people accessing healthcare facilities
15% increase in households engaged in non-agricultural employment
An evaluation study on PMGSY–III has been assigned to the National Council of Applied Economic Research (NCAER). However, findings from previous independent assessments clearly show that PMGSY has improved access to education and healthcare, facilitated job creation in both agriculture and non-agriculture sectors, and helped farmers secure better prices for their produce.
The scheme has particularly benefited women by improving access to health services, increasing institutional deliveries, enhancing their role in financial decision-making, and improving mobility to markets. PMGSY also contributes significantly to achieving various Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) related to poverty reduction and social development.
