India in need for World Class Infrastructure

Outlining their agenda for five years, the current government announced a slew of measures to push growth and create jobs, which will include encouraging investment and creating a predictable, transparent and fair environment.

Prime Minister of India – Mr. Narendra Modi upon reviewing the progress of eight major infrastructure sectors in the country as part of his monthly review meetings officially stated  that, accelerated infrastructure development was his top priority and that he senses the need to create world-class infrastructure. The eight sectors under the area of focus are: civil aviation, ports and inland waterways, roads, railways, telecom, power, coal, and new and renewable energy.

Further, the Prime Minister emphasised the importance of monitoring the progress of infrastructure development through efficiency parameters identified for each sector which their respective Ministries should monitor on electronic reporting formats. Adding further, the initiatives undertaken by state governments as well as PSUs with other countries, including SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation) countries, should also be taken into account while monitoring the progress of infrastructure sectors.

Connecting to the aspects of infrastructure development, Mr. Modi also spoke on the “Sagar Mala” project, announced by him in June this year. This project is aimed at interconnecting all coastal cities in India through road, rail, ports and airports through a special development package. The project would enhance the unique identities of these coastal cities in consonance with sea-side life.

The ideology of infrastructural development would also become a major link for Mr. Modi’s "Make in India" vision, which invites other countries to manufacture their products in India and sell them to other countries. The success of this ideology will ultimately envisage a quantum jump in India's global trade.

The railways have  also been asked to come up with a comprehensive plan to facilitate FDI, as a clearance for 100 percent foreign direct investment (FDI) has been granted in their sector.