Current Affairs - National - Discussion

IIM Kolkata signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the National Rural Infrastructure Development Agency (NRIDA) to conduct a four-year longitudinal impact assessment of rural roads developed under PMGSY-IV and PM-JANMAN. The study aims to evaluate the long-term socio-economic effects of improved rural connectivity across 10 States and Union Territories, covering 50 districts, 150 blocks and 250 roads. Researchers will collect data from approximately 5,000 households to assess changes in mobility, agriculture and livelihoods. The assessment will also examine whether better road access improves healthcare, education and market connectivity, as well as women's empowerment. The findings are expected to help evaluate the effectiveness of rural infrastructure programmes and guide future development policies.