Union Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Friday, 15 May released the Centre's share of ₹8,368.50 crore for Maharashtra under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana-Gramin (PMAY-G) for the financial year 2026-27. The announcement came at a function in Satara, where Chouhan also inaugurated a Griha Pravesh ceremony marking the completion of 5 lakh rural houses across the state.

What the Funding Covers

The ₹8,368.50 crore represents the Centre's contribution toward rural housing construction in Maharashtra under PMAY-G. Chouhan said the infusion would 'further accelerate the construction of houses for the rural poor' and strengthen efforts to make rural Maharashtra homeless-free. Officials indicated that eligible families who may have been missed in earlier rounds will be covered after a fresh survey and verification process.

Maharashtra's Housing Record

Chouhan praised the state's implementation pace, saying Maharashtra 'has done remarkable work in the implementation of the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana-Gramin and has set an excellent example of good governance, sensitivity, and result-oriented administration by completing 5 lakh houses in record time.' He added that the state's speed and commitment were 'inspiring to other states.'

Road Projects and Rural Connectivity

Beyond housing, Chouhan handed over approvals to Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis for 35 road projects worth ₹122.98 crore under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana-IV (PMGSY-IV). Spanning 95.99 kilometres, these projects will connect 35 rural habitations, improving access to education, healthcare, and markets.

Relief for Onion and Sugarcane Farmers

Chouhan also announced immediate relief for onion growers, stating that the National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation of India Limited (NAFED) would begin purchasing onions at ₹12.35 per kg from Friday, citing market price pressure from increased production and export-related conditions. On sugarcane, he assured that the Centre and the Maharashtra government would hold ministerial-level discussions to find 'practical solutions,' noting that farmers are 'the backbone of the country's economy.'

Viksit Bharat G-RAM-G Yojana on the Horizon

The minister also flagged the upcoming Viksit Bharat G-RAM-G Yojana, set to launch on 1 July, describing it as 'a new foundation for the holistic, planned development of villages.' He cited recent policy measures — including minimum support price hikes, oilseed and pulse procurement drives, the Cotton Mission, and Farmer ID rollout — as evidence of the Centre's rural-first priorities. The government's stated goal, he said, extends beyond housing to ensuring electricity, water, sanitation, and 'a dignified life' for every rural household.