Infrastructure Development and Land Acquisition Challenges
Cabinet Secretary highlighted the significant challenge of land acquisition in infrastructure development during a briefing after the 50th meeting of the Pro-Active Governance and Timely Implementation (PRAGATI). The meeting, chaired by Prime Minister, focused on reviewing the implementation of infrastructure projects.
Key Points Discussed
- The Union government has no plans to change the existing land acquisition policy.
- Land acquisition is one of the major reasons for the pendency of infrastructure projects across India.
PRAGATI Review Outcomes
- PRAGATI reviewed over 3,300 projects worth ₹85 lakh crore.
- During its meetings, 7,735 issues were raised, and 7,156 were resolved.
- Of the resolved issues:
- 35% were related to land acquisition.
- 20% pertained to forest, wildlife, and environment issues.
- 18% were about the right of use/way.
- Other issues included law and order, construction, power utility approvals, and financial matters.
Government Stance and Resolution Strategy
- There is no plan to change the land acquisition law despite its challenges.
- All States, regardless of political affiliation, are eager to complete their projects, and chief secretaries have been responsive in resolving issues.
- Issues are initially addressed at the Ministry level, with complex cases escalated to higher-level reviews at PRAGATI meetings chaired by the Prime Minister.
- The escalation framework ensures:
- Coordinated inter-ministerial action.
- Timely decision-making.
- Focused resolution of bottlenecks in projects of national importance.
- PRAGATI ensures coordination between Central Ministries, States, local governments, and within State governments.
