Published: 30 January 2026PIBEconomy
Economic Survey: Infrastructure Push — Highway Network Expands 60%, Airports Double, Rail 99% Electric
The Economic Survey 2025-26 documents India's massive infrastructure expansion. The national highway network reached 1,46,572 km by December FY26 — a 60% expansion from 91,287 km in FY14. High-speed corridors grew nearly 10-fold to 5,364 km from 550 km in FY14. The railway network spans 69,439 route km with 99.1% electrification achieved by October 2025, with 3,500 km of new additions targeted in FY26.
Airports increased from 74 in 2014 to 164 in 2025, making India the 3rd largest aviation market globally. Government capital expenditure for FY26 (Budget Estimate) stands at ₹11.21 lakh crore — a 4.2x increase from ₹2.63 lakh crore in FY18. Effective capex is budgeted at ₹15.48 lakh crore.
In the power sector, installed capacity reached 509.74 GW by November 2025 (11.6% YoY growth) with zero demand-supply gap (down from 4.2% in FY14). Renewable energy capacity share reached 49.83% of total installed capacity. India surpassed its goal of 50% installed power from non-fossil fuels, reaching 51.93% by December 2025 — ranking 3rd globally in renewable energy.
DISCOMs reported a historic positive turnaround with ₹2,701 crore Profit After Tax in FY25 — the first time ever. AT&C losses reduced from 22.62% in FY14 to 15.04% in FY25. 5G coverage reached 99.9% of districts. Jal Jeevan Mission provided clean tap water to 81%+ of rural households.
Mains angle
Q: How does the Economic Survey 2025-26 highlight India's infrastructure transformation across highways, railways, airports, and renewable energy since 2014?
Answer (50 words):
The Economic Survey documents a 60% highway expansion to 1,46,572 km, airports doubling from 74 to 164, and 99.1% railway electrification. Renewable energy reached 51.93% of installed capacity, making India third globally. DISCOMs achieved their first-ever profit of ₹2,701 crore, while 5G coverage reached 99.9% of districts.
6-axis classification
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Linked questionMedium
Under which BRO project was Nyoma Airbase developed?
Explanation · Correct answer BNyoma Airbase was developed under BRO's Project Himank at a cost of ₹218 crore.
Frequently asked questions
By how much has India's national highway network expanded according to Economic Survey 2025-26?
India's **national highway network reached 1,46,572 km by December FY26** — a **60% expansion** from 91,287 km in FY14.
What is India's railway electrification level?
India's **railway network spans 69,439 route km with 99.1% electrification** achieved by October 2025 — making it one of the most electrified rail networks in the world.
How many airports does India have?
India's airport count has **doubled** under recent infrastructure push, with significant expansion in Tier-2 and Tier-3 city airports — reflecting India's aviation growth ambitions.
What is the significance of India's infrastructure expansion?
India's infrastructure — 60% highway expansion, near-100% rail electrification, and doubled airports — is a key driver of economic growth, logistics efficiency, and regional development.
What does 99.1% railway electrification mean for India?
**99.1% railway electrification** reduces dependence on diesel, cuts operating costs, lowers carbon emissions, and enables faster and more energy-efficient train operations across India.
