In a strategic move aimed at streamlining administrative processes and fostering efficiency in governance, the Indian government is reportedly deliberating the establishment of a dedicated infrastructure ministry.
This envisaged ministry would amalgamate pivotal departments such as Railways, Roads & Highways, and Shipping & Ports, thereby consolidating their functions under a unified framework. Sources privy to the discussions have disclosed that the prospect of ministry mergers and departmental consolidation has been a focal point within the corridors of power. Although no concrete proposal has yet materialized, insights gleaned from the ongoing ‘Viksit Bharat’ deliberations indicate a concerted effort towards organizational optimization and procedural enhancement. A primary objective underlying these deliberations is the expeditious facilitation of inter-ministerial approvals, thereby fostering a conducive environment for business operations and augmenting the nation’s ease of doing business index. By aligning ministries tasked with common objectives at a macro level, the envisaged restructuring seeks to promote synergistic collaborations and streamline regulatory processes.
The proposed integration of Railways, Roads & Highways, and Shipping & Ports ministries is underpinned by the significant interdependence observed among these sectors. Enhanced coordination and cohesive policymaking are anticipated outcomes, positioning the government to address infrastructure challenges with greater efficacy. Railways and roadways emerge as pivotal players in this strategic maneuver, commanding a combined capex budget exceeding ₹5 lakh crore, representing a substantial 48% of the government’s annual capex target. Notably, while the envisaged infrastructure ministry would foster convergence, sources affirm the continued autonomy of the Railway Board in its operational capacity. Beyond the Ministries mentioned earlier, the contemplation of mergers extends to other governmental domains, with a dual emphasis on optimizing operational efficiencies and promoting institutional agility. With the central government comprising 53 ministries and approximately 70 departments, the envisioned restructuring endeavors to instill a culture of lean governance, marked by streamlined processes and reduced bureaucratic redundancies.
