Subject: Social Justice

Economic connectivity through PURA (Provision of Urban Amenities in Rural Areas) serves as a transformative model aimed at bridging the rural-urban divide by establishing comprehensive linkages. The concept, championed by former President Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam, emphasizes that connectivity is the foundation for rural prosperity and sustainable development.

Types of Connectivity Under PURA

Physical Connectivity:

• Development of road networks and transportation infrastructure to connect rural clusters with urban centers.
• Implementation of projects like Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) to ensure all-weather road connectivity.
• Integration with National Logistics Policy to reduce logistics costs and improve market access.

Electronic Connectivity:

• BharatNet Project has made 218,347 Gram Panchayats service-ready, enabling digital services.
• Digital India initiative providing broadband access to 199,000 villages (30.4%) out of 650,000 targeted villages.
• Success stories like Periyar PURA demonstrate impact through WiMAX connectivity providing 4 Mbps internet access.

Knowledge Connectivity:

• Establishment of skill development centers and educational institutions.
• Integration with National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) programs.
• Jallikakinada's Gram IT BPO model showcasing successful rural employment generation.

Impact of Connectivity

Economic Benefits:

• Enhanced market access for farmers through real-time information on prices and weather.
• Direct marketing opportunities through e-commerce platforms.
• Budget allocation of ₹1,88,754.53 crore (2025-26) strengthening rural infrastructure.

Social Development:

• Improved access to healthcare through telemedicine facilities.
• Better educational opportunities through digital learning platforms.
• Reverse migration trends observed in successful PURA implementations.

The success of PURA lies in its holistic approach to connectivity, exemplified by initiatives like Jal Jeevan Mission and the Rural Prosperity and Resilience Program. The model demonstrates that comprehensive connectivity acts as a catalyst for rural transformation, making it essential for achieving balanced regional development and the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat.