The PM-DevINE by Government of India

Context

• The Government of India introduced PM-DevINE as an initiative to tackle development obstacles present in the North Eastern Region (NER). 
• The scheme works to eliminate infrastructure defects and empower the youth and women population of the North Eastern Region through social development initiatives.

What is PM-DevINE?

• During the Union Budget 2022-23 the government implemented the Central Sector Scheme known as PM-DevINE. 
• The entire funding for this scheme originates from the Central Government allowing direct resource flow into development projects of the region. 
• The Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER) executes PM-DevINE through official approval which occurred on October 12th 2022.

Objectives of PM-DevINE

The scheme focuses on:

Infrastructure Development:

• The infrastructure development projects under PM GatiShakti ensure improved bridge construction as well as road networks and transport systems.
• The NER and the rest of India maintain an unbroken connection as a top priority of this scheme.

Social Development Projects:

• Addresses critical issues like health, education, and social welfare through focused initiatives.
• The program works to enhance regional life quality standards across the territory.

Youth and Women Empowerment:

• The development initiative creates specialized employment activities for both women and youth groups to participate actively in the transformation process.

Financial Allocation:

• The budget of Union Budget 2022-23 included an initial funding of ₹1,500 crore.
• The outlay during the 15th Finance Commission period (2022-23 to 2025-26) amounts to ₹6,600 crore through this scheme.
• The region receives funding at both state-specific and project-specific levels thus meeting the unique requirements of its various regions.

Other Major Initiatives for NER

Through PM-DevINE and other complementary programs the government works to achieve regional all-around development in the northeast.

• North East Industrial Development Scheme (NEIDS): Industrial development and employment opportunities arise within this region as part of its strategy.
• North Eastern Council (NEC): Functions as a policy advisory body for the socio-economic development of the NER.
• North East Road Sector Development Scheme: The initiative works towards building better road infrastructure to connect different areas.
• Major Connectivity Projects: The Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Project creates enhanced transportation capabilities between India and Myanmar for better commercial exchanges.
• Bangladesh-China-India-Myanmar (BCIM) Corridor: Promotes regional trade and cooperation.
• Bharatmala Pariyojana: Under this national highway development program the organization progresses 5,301 kilometers of roadway infrastructure in the NER.
• Regional Connectivity Scheme (RCS-UDAN): The NER has become the focus of priority development which delivers affordable flight costs to make air services more available throughout the region.

Conclusion

• The PM-DevINE initiative plays an essential role in closing the development gap which exists in the North Eastern Region. 
• The initiative focuses on infrastructure improvement and social development and vulnerable group empowerment as its primary channels to achieve sustainable development across the region. 
• Together with additional government projects PM-DevINE will evolve the NER into a prosperous well-connected region which will deliver significant advancement for India’s nation.

Source:Press Information Bureau

UPSC Mains practice Question

Q. Examine the objectives and significance of the Prime Minister’s Development Initiative for the North Eastern Region (PM-DevINE). How does it complement other government initiatives aimed at the development of the North Eastern Region

Download as PDF