How is PMAY-G Changing Lives of the Poor in Kawardha?

Raipur, June 26 (NationPress) The Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana-Gramin (PMAY-G), a flagship housing initiative launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, is revolutionizing the lives of many in Chhattisgarh, especially in the district of Kawardha.

This program aims to ensure that every individual has access to a roof over their head, instilling hope and joy in countless underprivileged families by assisting them in constructing stable homes.

During an on-site evaluation conducted by the IANS team, villagers recounted the transformative impact PMAY has had on their lives since they received housing support.

Shaligram, one of the beneficiaries, shared: "It has been nearly a decade since we got our home through PMAY. Previously, we lived in temporary shelters, but now, thanks to this initiative, we possess a permanent residence. It feels like a dream realized."

Ganesh Giri reflected on his earlier struggles.

"Our previous living conditions were in a kutcha house. Three years ago, we were fortunate to receive a pucca house through PMAY. Our lives have drastically changed. It’s more than just having shelter—it symbolizes security, dignity, and hope."

Kanti, a woman from the same community, expressed her heartfelt appreciation.

"We previously resided in slums, facing ongoing challenges. Now we have a permanent home. The Prime Minister has provided us with more than just a house—he has given us stability. Our gratitude is immeasurable."

Another local voiced similar feelings: "Residing in kutcha houses was fraught with issues—leaks, extreme temperatures, and insecurity. Today, we are proud homeowners. We never envisioned having a pucca house, and it’s all due to this program."

Shyam Sundar expressed his gratitude for the financial assistance: "The funds were deposited directly into our bank accounts to facilitate the construction of our houses. The process was transparent and efficient. The Prime Minister has undoubtedly done us a great service."

Madan, another beneficiary, highlighted the peace that comes with home security: "Previously, our kutcha house would collapse during torrential rains. Now, our entire family sleeps soundly in a sturdy, permanent home. This change has been monumental."

Initiated in two phases—Urban in 2015 and Gramin in 2016—the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana was conceived from Prime Minister Modi's aspiration to eradicate homelessness and ensure that every individual has a pucca house by 2022. Since its inception, the scheme has become one of the world's most ambitious housing projects.

Under PMAY-Gramin, which launched on November 20, 2016, the government has established a detailed three-step process to identify beneficiaries: verification through the Socio-Economic Caste Census (SECC) 2011, Awaas+ survey (2018), and final endorsement by Gram Sabhas. Geo-tagging, digital monitoring, and Direct Benefit Transfers (DBT) have ensured transparency and efficiency in fund distribution.

Tailored to meet regional requirements, the scheme endorses locally suitable housing designs, with an emphasis on disaster-resilient construction. Beyond being a housing initiative, PMAY-G has generated skilled employment through the training of nearly 300,000 rural masons, enhancing livelihoods alongside providing shelter.

Initially targeting the construction of 2.95 crore houses by 2023-24, PMAY's scope has recently expanded. On August 9, 2024, the Union Cabinet greenlit the construction of an additional 20 million houses under the scheme, with a financial allocation of ₹3,06,137 crore for the period of 2024–29 and ₹54,500 crore designated for the financial year 2024–25.

Financial support for beneficiaries persists at ₹1.20 lakh per house in plain areas and ₹1.30 lakh in hilly and northeastern regions, including Union Territories like Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh.

As of November 19, 2024, an impressive 3.21 crore houses have been sanctioned, with 2.67 crore completed, showcasing the government's unwavering dedication to closing India’s housing deficit.

Moreover, PMAY-G prioritizes women's empowerment, with 74 percent of houses registered solely or jointly in women’s names, promoting gender equality in property ownership. The scheme now aspires to attain 100 percent female ownership.