The correct option is 2 only
Explanation
The Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) was launched on December 25, 2000, as a Centrally Sponsored Scheme to assist States in providing single all-weather road connectivity to eligible unconnected habitations in rural areas.
Statement-wise Analysis:
- Statement 1 is Incorrect: The primary objective of PMGSY is to provide connectivity by way of an all-weather road (with necessary culverts and cross-drainage structures) to eligible unconnected habitations. The eligibility criteria involve a population of 500 persons and above in plain areas and 250 persons and above in Special Category States (North-East, Sikkim, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, and Uttarakhand), the Desert Areas, and Tribal (Schedule V) areas.
- Statement 2 is Correct: Originally, PMGSY was a 100% centrally funded scheme. However, following the recommendations of the Sub-Group of Chief Ministers on Rationalization of Centrally Sponsored Schemes, the funding pattern was revised. Currently, the fund sharing ratio is 60:40 between the Centre and States for general states, and 90:10 for North-Eastern and Himalayan States. It is not 50:50.
- Statement 3 is Incorrect: The scheme has been instrumental in improving rural connectivity. PMGSY-III specifically focuses on the consolidation of the existing Through Routes and Major Rural Links that connect habitations to Gramin Agricultural Markets (GrAMs), Higher Secondary Schools, and Hospitals. Therefore, stating that it has failed to improve connectivity to markets is factually incorrect.
Key Takeaway:
PMGSY aims to provide all-weather road connectivity to unconnected rural habitations. The current funding pattern is 60:40 for general states and 90:10 for special category states.