In October 2025, the Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi approved multiple key proposals, including the third phase of the Biomedical Research Career Programme (BRCP), the widening of the Kalibor–Numaligarh National Highway in Assam, and the opening of 57 new Kendriya Vidyalayas. Under this approval, what is the total budget outlay sanctioned for the widening and improvement of the Kalibor–Numaligarh section of NH-715 in Assam?

The correct answer is Rs 6,957 crore. In News The Union Cabinet chaired by PM Narendra Modi approved the widening of the 85.675 km-long Kalibor–Numaligarh section of NH-715 in Assam to a four-lane National Highway, with a total budget outlay of Rs 6,957 crore. Key Points The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) chaired by PM Narendra Modi approved this project under the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH). The project covers a total length of 85.675 km and will be executed under the Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) mode. The total sanctioned budget is Rs 6,957 crore . Construction includes an elevated corridor passing through the Kaziranga National Park (34.45 km), road widening (30.22 km), and greenfield bypasses around Bokakhat (9.5 km) and Jakhalabandha (11.5 km). The project aims to reduce traffic congestion, enable faster connectivity, and support wildlife protection measures through eco-sensitive design. It will also promote tourism and economic development in upper Assam and adjoining northeastern regions. Additional Information National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) executes major NH projects under MoRTH. Established in - 1988 HQ - New Delhi NH-715 connects Tezpur, Kaziranga, Numaligarh, and Jhanji in Assam. Other Cabinet approvals on the same day include – BRCP (Rs 1,500 crore), 57 new KVs (Rs 5,862 crore), and a 3% hike in DA/DR. Dearness Allowance (DA) and Dearness Relief (DR) revision raised it from 55% to 58% effective July 1, 2025. The BRCP Phase-III will be co-implemented by the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) and the UK-based Wellcome Trust.