- The Basics: Launched on Dec 25, 2000, PMGSY is a Centrally Sponsored Scheme to provide all-weather road connectivity to unconnected habitations.
- Background & Evolution:
- Phase I: Basic connectivity for habitations with 500+ population (250+ in hills/deserts).
- Phase III (2019): Upgrading 1.25 lakh km of existing rural roads to improve access to GrAMs (Gramin Agricultural Markets), schools, and hospitals.
- Phase IV (2024-29): New phase targeting "final-mile" connectivity for 25,000 habitations in remote tribal and border areas.
- Milestone (Dec 2025): Approximately 95% (7.87 lakh km) of sanctioned roads are complete.
- UPSC Insight: Mention the use of Green Technology (waste plastic, cold mix) and GIS-based monitoring (OMMAS).
UPSC - 2027 - Prelims cum Mains - Foundation Course / Orientation on 08-03-2026 
