<h4>Bharatmala Pariyojana Phase-I: Deadline Extension</h4><p>The <strong>Government of India</strong> has announced an extension for the completion of its ambitious highway development project, the <strong>Bharatmala Pariyojana Phase-I</strong>. This flagship initiative is crucial for enhancing India's road infrastructure.</p><p>The new deadline for the completion of <strong>Bharatmala Pariyojana Phase-I</strong> has been set for <strong>2027-28</strong>. This extension provides additional time for project execution and addressing any implementation challenges.</p><div class='key-point-box'><p><strong>Bharatmala Pariyojana</strong> aims to optimize the efficiency of freight and passenger movement across India by bridging critical infrastructure gaps.</p></div><h4>Role of the Directorate in Marine Navigation</h4><p>A specific <strong>Directorate</strong> (likely the Directorate General of Lighthouses and Lightships - <strong>DGLL</strong>) plays a vital role in ensuring safe marine navigation. It provides <strong>Vessel Traffic Service (VTS)</strong>, which is essential for interactive navigation control.</p><p>This <strong>Directorate</strong> is responsible for maintaining <strong>general aids to marine navigation</strong>, as mandated by the <strong>Lighthouse Act 1927</strong>. In contrast, <strong>local aids</strong> are typically maintained by <strong>Maritime State Government organisations</strong>.</p><div class='info-box'><p>The <strong>Lighthouse Act 1927</strong> is the legislative framework governing the establishment and maintenance of lighthouses and other aids to navigation in India.</p></div><p>The <strong>Directorate</strong> also offers crucial <strong>technical support</strong> for the maintenance of local lights. It has the authority to take over the maintenance of these local aids if international standards are not met due to financial constraints or a lack of technical personnel.</p><div class='exam-tip-box'><p>Understanding the distinction between <strong>general</strong> and <strong>local aids to navigation</strong>, and the respective responsibilities, is important for questions on maritime infrastructure and governance in <strong>UPSC Mains GS-III</strong>.</p></div>