New Delhi, May 28, 2026 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called upon states to resolve inter-state water disputes through mutual cooperation, timely approvals and technology-based monitoring mechanisms, while stating that the Ken-Betwa river-linking project should become a model for the entire country.
Chairing the 51st PRAGATI meeting on Wednesday evening, the Prime Minister reviewed seven major infrastructure projects related to railways, roads and power sectors across nine states, involving investments worth nearly Rs 30,000 crore.
During the meeting, Modi stressed that delays in the execution of public infrastructure projects not only lead to massive cost escalations but also deprive citizens of timely access to essential services and development benefits.
Reviewing the ambitious Ken-Betwa river inter-linking project, the Prime Minister emphasised that the initiative should serve as a benchmark for resolving inter-state water disputes through coordinated efforts, faster clearances, mission-mode implementation and advanced monitoring systems.
According to an official statement, states were encouraged to identify similar opportunities for river-linking, water conservation, groundwater recharge and efficient irrigation projects in an integrated manner to strengthen long-term water security across the country.
PRAGATI, an ICT-enabled multi-modal governance platform, was highlighted as a key mechanism for ensuring proactive governance and effective coordination between the Centre and state governments for timely implementation of critical projects.
Apart from the Ken-Betwa project, Prime Minister Modi also reviewed the implementation of the Swachh Bharat Mission-Urban 2.0 and various connectivity projects related to roads, ports and the power sector.
While assessing power sector initiatives, Modi laid special emphasis on accelerating rooftop solar adoption in urban areas, residential colonies and public institutions.
He directed authorities to implement rooftop solar projects in mission mode to reduce electricity costs, strengthen energy security and promote clean and renewable energy generation at the household and community levels.
The Prime Minister also stressed the innovative use of canal infrastructure, suggesting installation of solar panels along and above canals to optimise land usage, reduce water evaporation and generate additional renewable energy.
Reviewing road and port connectivity projects, Modi directed that the Vadhavan Port project should be developed as a future-ready model of integrated multi-modal logistics infrastructure.
He said the project should not be viewed merely as a port but as a strategic national gateway connected through coastal shipping, inland waterways, dedicated freight corridors, highways, high-speed rail networks and airport connectivity.
The Prime Minister further emphasised effective implementation of Swachh Bharat Mission 2.0, stating that the programme must move beyond infrastructure development and focus on measurable outcomes through continuous monitoring, public participation and stakeholder coordination.
He urged states to expedite pending solid waste management projects, including waste processing facilities and GOBARdhan plants, to improve urban sanitation and waste management systems.
Modi observed that every delay in project execution directly impacts people’s lives, regional growth and public resources, stressing the need for ministries, departments and state governments to adopt a more proactive, coordinated and time-bound approach.
At the beginning of the meeting, Cabinet Secretary TV Somanathan informed that, following the Prime Minister’s directions, a system of monthly review of social sector schemes at the state level has also been operationalised to ensure faster resolution of implementation challenges and greater accountability.
