Context:
Under the PRAGATI (Pro-Active Governance and Timely Implementation) platform, 43 out of 53 power sector projects, worth ₹3.02 lakh crore, reviewed at the Prime Minister’s level have been commissioned as of December 31, 2025.
Key Highlights:
Project Status
- Total projects reviewed: 53 (₹4.12 lakh crore).
• Commissioned: 43 projects (₹3.02 lakh crore).
• Remaining 10 projects (₹1.1 lakh crore) nearing completion.
Project Composition
- 27 Transmission projects.
• 14 Thermal power projects.
• 9 Hydropower projects.
• 3 Coal mine projects.
Implementing Agencies
- Power Grid Corporation of India (PGCIL) – 20 projects.
• NTPC – 14 projects.
Broader Impact
- 237 power projects (₹10.53 lakh crore) commissioned under wider PRAGATI ecosystem.
• 108 projects worth ₹6 lakh crore under construction.
• Improved grid reliability and power availability.
Challenges in Power Projects
- Land acquisition and environmental clearances.
• Right-of-way issues in transmission lines.
• Geological challenges in hydropower.
• Inter-departmental coordination gaps.
Relevant Prelims Points:
- PRAGATI (2015) – ICT-enabled platform for monitoring major infrastructure projects.
• Transmission Projects – High-voltage electricity transfer infrastructure.
• Thermal vs Hydro Power – Fuel-based vs water-based generation.
• Role of PGCIL and NTPC in power sector.
Relevant Mains Points:
- Reflects digital governance tools enhancing project monitoring and accountability.
• Infrastructure acceleration boosts:
– Economic growth
– Energy security
– Industrial competitiveness - Demonstrates importance of inter-governmental coordination.
• Infrastructure reforms critical for achieving net-zero and energy transition goals.
Way Forward
- Strengthen single-window clearance mechanisms.
• Promote renewable energy integration with grid modernization.
• Enhance coordination between Centre and States.
• Improve environmental and social safeguards.
UPSC Relevance:
• GS 2 – Governance (E-Governance, Project Monitoring)
• GS 3 – Economy (Infrastructure, Energy Sector)
• Prelims – PRAGATI, Power Sector Institutions