Since the launch of the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana-Gramin (PMAY-G) in 2016, Uttar Pradesh has seen the construction of over 35.88 lakh houses, providing secure homes to rural households across the state. According to recent data, shared in a report by the Hindustan Times, the scheme, which aims to provide pucca houses with basic amenities to eligible rural families, is nearing its ambitious target of 36.6 lakh houses by 2024-25.
At a state-level monitoring committee meeting chaired by Chief Secretary Manoj Kumar Singh, officials outlined the progress of the PMAY-G scheme. As of the latest reports, 72,000 houses are still under construction. Despite this, the state remains on track to meet its target by 2025, a significant achievement in improving rural housing infrastructure.
However, challenges remain. Approximately 27,000 houses were reported as incomplete as of the 2023-24 period. To address this, the government has accelerated construction efforts across the state. Notably, model houses have already been completed in 410 development blocks, with ongoing work in 144 additional blocks, signalling progress in ensuring quality housing for all.
In addition to PMAY-G, the state government has also made significant strides under the Mukhyamantri Awas Yojana-Gramin. Launched to complement PMAY-G, this scheme has built 2.52 lakh homes between 2018-19 and 2023-24, just shy of its target of 2.57 lakh houses. Around 3,929 homes remain under construction, and officials remain optimistic about achieving full completion soon.
One of the key highlights of both schemes has been their focus on marginalised and vulnerable communities in Uttar Pradesh. Since the implementation of these initiatives, thousands of families from historically marginalised communities have been provided homes. The data reveals the extensive outreach:
Since the implementation of rural housing schemes like the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana-Gramin (PMAY-G) and the Mukhyamantri Awas Yojana-Gramin, thousands of marginalised families in Uttar Pradesh have been provided with secure homes. The Musahar community has benefited the most, with 47,795 houses constructed for their families. Other communities have also seen significant support, including 4,838 homes for Van Tangiya families, 3,233 for the Tharu, 29,923 for the Kol, and 6,979 for the Sahariya. Additionally, 5,367 homes were allocated to Chero families, while 2,220 homes went to the Nat community. Smaller but no less important allocations include 63 homes for the Pachaia Lohar and 155 homes for the Gadhiya Lohar families, ensuring that even the most vulnerable groups are not left behind in the state’s push for rural housing development.
Further, specific tribal communities, including the Baiga and Bhoksa families, have benefitted, with 1,584 and 175 homes, respectively, allotted to them. The targeted assistance for these vulnerable groups showcases the state’s commitment to inclusive development.
The schemes have also addressed the needs of other vulnerable groups, including those impacted by natural disasters and diseases. Special allocations were made for families affected by various adversities:
Leprosy-affected families: 5,021 homes
Natural disaster-affected families: 78,101 homes
Families affected by Kala-azar: 249 homes
Families impacted by Japanese encephalitis and acute encephalitis syndrome: 674 homes
Differently-abled individuals: 71,056 homes
These figures underline the government’s efforts to provide not only housing but a safety net for those grappling with health challenges and natural calamities.
Recognising the success and ongoing need for rural housing, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, in February 2024, announced the extension of the PMAY-G scheme for an additional five years. The extension aims to construct 20 million more houses across the country, with Uttar Pradesh expected to benefit significantly from this renewed focus on rural housing development.
