Dichotomy of Infrastructure Projects in India: Improved Performance amid Persistent Overhangs

Infrastructure development is a critical factor in boosting the economy. An increase in investment in infrastructure opens-up employment opportunities because of its backward and forward linkages. The changing demographics and environment will need the converged development of various infrastructure facilities in India. The government has promoted railways, roadways, ports, and civil aviation in recent decades, as evident from policy and programs. Even with the accelerated growth in infra projects in India, most of the infrastructure projects are delayed, primarily owing to regulatory approvals, land acquisition issues, shortage of skilled resources, ineffective dispute resolution mechanisms, and geological challenges. This paper highlights the prospects and progress of infrastructure projects along with issues and challenges.