New Delhi, Jan 13 (NationPress) The flagship initiative of the Centre, PRAGATI (Pro-Active Governance and Timely Implementation), has remarkably propelled India's growth by expediting projects worth over Rs 85 lakh crore, as stated in an official release on Tuesday.

Under the PRAGATI framework, a total of 382 significant national projects have been meticulously assessed and monitored, which has led to a notable decrease in delays and budget overruns, the statement declared.

PRAGATI accelerates projects, schemes, and grievance resolution via direct, real-time evaluation by the Prime Minister, collaborating with states and Union Ministries. This platform serves as a prime illustration of how digital governance can transform intent into tangible progress, the statement highlighted.

Initiated in 2015 under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, PRAGATI demonstrates a commitment to overcoming bureaucratic inertia, fostering a collaborative approach between the Centre and states, and establishing a culture of timely decision-making, accountability, and measurable outcomes. Numerous long-standing projects initiated by prior administrations have also been addressed under the PRAGATI platform, leading to their unlocking or completion. Notable examples include the Bogibeel rail-cum-road bridge (proposed in 1997), the Navi Mumbai International Airport (envisioned in 1997), and the Bhilai Steel Plant modernization (approved in 2007), among others, as mentioned in the statement.

Chronic time and cost overruns have historically plagued India's public projects and schemes. To tackle this challenge at all government levels, the Prime Minister envisioned PRAGATI as a thorough solution. It is a unique, integrated, and interactive platform designed to both address grievances and monitor essential programs and projects from the Centre, along with those highlighted by state administrations.

The PRAGATI platform innovatively integrates three modern technologies — digital data management, video conferencing, and geo-spatial technology. This system enables the Prime Minister to engage directly with both Central and State officials, supported by comprehensive information and up-to-date visual evidence from project sites. This initiative also marks a pioneering advancement in e-governance and exemplifies the principles of good governance.

PRAGATI is inspired by SWAGAT (State Wide Attention on Grievances by Application of Technology), a project initiated by then Chief Minister of Gujarat, Narendra Modi, in April 2003, which was among India’s early technology-enabled platforms for grievance resolution.