Relevance for UPSC: GS III (Infrastructure, Economy, Governance); Source: The Indian Express, PIB

Context

According to the Cabinet Secretary, nearly 35 percent of issues flagged under PRAGATI relate to land acquisition, making it the largest constraint in timely execution of major infrastructure projects.

Key Facts

  • PRAGATI (launched 2015) reviews 3,300+ projects worth ₹85 lakh crore+.
  • Issue breakup: Land acquisition (35%), environmental clearances (20%), right of way (18%).
  • Top affected sectors: Roads, Railways, Power.

Why Land Acquisition Delays Persist

  • Rights-based safeguards under the Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement Act, 2013.
  • Complex procedures, litigation, and Centre–State coordination gaps.
UPSC Value Box

  • Government stance: No dilution of the 2013 law; focus on governance reforms.
  • Reform tools: SVAMITVA Scheme (land records), single-window clearances.
  • Planning: PM Gati Shakti, National Infrastructure Pipeline.
  • SDGs: SDG 9 (Infrastructure), SDG 16 (Institutions).

Conclusion

Land acquisition remains India’s key infrastructure bottleneck, best addressed through better planning, digitisation, and cooperative federalism, not legal rollback.

Q. PRAGATI primarily aims to:
A. Finance infrastructure projects
B. Monitor and fast-track project implementation
C. Acquire land for highways
D. Grant environmental clearances

Correct Answer: B

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