The deficiencies pointed out by the CAG in its 2016 report in terms of data updation on the Online Management, Monitoring and Accounting System (OMMAS) have been taken care of and as on date, the system has become a robust instrument for monitoring various aspects of PMGSY. Over a period of time, various features have been added to make it more topical.

NITI Aayog, in its report “Evaluation of Centrally Sponsored Schemes in Rural Development Sector Vol.2: Rural Development, December 2020” has also lauded OMMAS and other technology initiatives adopted under PMGSY. The observations of NITI Aayog are given below:-

i)   In terms of transparency and level of data, OMMAS is serving all purposes with respect to monitoring.

ii) OMMAS has helped facilitate the timely monitoring of works under PMGSY.

iii) PMGSY is committed to establish transparency and accountability in the scheme processes- through the revamping of its MIS portal (OMMAS), planning at the Block Panchayat, geo-tagging of roads, reporting of the scheme on a monthly basis, and timely evaluations.

iv) PMGSY has implemented many technology driven mechanisms for planning, monitoring, data management, reporting and citizen feedback including OMMAS, Geospatial Rural Road Information System (GRRIS), Geo-PMGSY, Electronic Maintenance of Rural Roads under PMGSY (E-MARG) and the Meri Sadak app. All of these interventions have improved the efficiency of scheme processes.

v) The scheme’s on-track physical progress, a well-defined implementation structure and high rates of digitization are promising.

This information was given by the Union Minister of State for Rural Development, Sadhvi Niranjan Jyoti in a written  reply in Rajya Sabha today.

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