India’s urban transformation is unfolding at an unprecedented pace, bringing both opportunities and challenges. With over 48 crore people already living in cities and projections estimating more than 60 crore by 2030, urban development has become central to the country’s economic and social progress. From housing to transport, water to sanitation, the pressures on urban infrastructure are growing, demanding coordinated planning and efficient implementation.
The government’s proactive approach to this urban transition is exemplified by PRAGATI—Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s flagship platform for Pro-Active Governance and Timely Implementation. Launched in 2015, PRAGATI has become a game-changer in monitoring key infrastructure projects and resolving public grievances through direct Prime Ministerial oversight. Over its decade-long journey, the platform has successfully conducted 50 meetings, reflecting its institutional importance and the sustained focus on accountability and coordination between the Centre, states, and Union Ministries.
PRAGATI operates on a single digital interface, integrating multiple governance layers and enabling real-time tracking of progress. This cooperative framework has not only accelerated decision-making but has also helped identify and resolve implementation bottlenecks that previously slowed critical projects. By combining technology with governance, PRAGATI embodies a results-driven model that strengthens transparency and improves inter-ministerial coordination.
Urban development has been a strategic priority in these reviews. Seven key urban schemes—including the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana – Urban (PMAY-U), the Smart Cities Mission, and the PM Street Vendor’s AtmaNirbhar Nidhi (PM SVANidhi) scheme—have been consistently discussed across twelve PRAGATI meetings. These schemes highlight the government’s commitment to inclusive, technology-enabled urban growth that balances economic opportunity with improved quality of life.
The impact of these initiatives is tangible. Under PMAY-U, more than 1.18 crore housing units have been sanctioned nationwide, with over 88 lakh units already completed, providing secure homes for families across India. The Smart Cities Mission has progressed significantly, now covering 100 cities with integrated solutions for mobility, energy, water, and digital services. Meanwhile, PM SVANidhi has extended financial support to urban micro-entrepreneurs, disbursing nearly ₹13,800 crore in over 96 lakh loans to more than 80 lakh street vendors, ensuring livelihoods remain resilient and inclusive.
PRAGATI’s review of fourteen major projects worth over ₹2.37 lakh crore demonstrates the platform’s role in overseeing high-value infrastructure investment. Of these, four projects have already been commissioned, while ten remain under implementation, reflecting sustained focus on timely delivery. The directions issued during these reviews have strengthened accountability, improved coordination between states and ministries, and enabled faster execution.
Prime Minister Modi’s vision for urban affairs emphasises creating cities that are inclusive, sustainable, and technologically advanced. By combining mission-mode governance with real-time oversight through PRAGATI, the government aims to ensure dignified living and economic opportunity for all urban residents. The platform’s success underscores the importance of structured, digitally-enabled governance in meeting the demands of India’s rapidly urbanising population.
As India prepares for Union Budget 2026, initiatives like PRAGATI offer a lens into how targeted governance, backed by technology, can drive infrastructure development and housing delivery. With urbanisation continuing to shape the country’s economic trajectory, platforms that enhance coordination, speed up implementation, and maintain accountability will be pivotal in realising India’s vision of sustainable and inclusive cities.
