PM Modi to Distribute First PMAY Installments in Jharkhand, Aiding Rural Housing

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to release the initial installments of the PM Awas Yojana to numerous rural beneficiaries. On September 15, in Jamshedpur, a griha pravesh ceremony for 26 lakh beneficiaries will also take place, as announced by Rural Development Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan.

During an online meeting with state rural development ministers, Chouhan revealed that the prime minister will distribute installments worth Rs 2,745 crore to PM Awas Yojana (PMAY) beneficiaries. The event in Jharkhand will see around 10 lakh beneficiaries receiving their first installments. Assembly elections are scheduled in the state later this year.

PMAY-G Beneficiaries Interaction

The Ministry of Rural Development stated that PM Modi will engage with Pradhan Mantri Awaas Yojana-Gramin (PMAY-G) beneficiaries during the event. Acceptance letters for the financial year 2024-25 will also be handed out to all targeted beneficiaries. The ministry expects a large turnout, with many joining online.

Chouhan mentioned that the scheme's rules have been simplified and amended to ensure inclusivity. Exclusion criteria such as owning motorised two-wheelers, fishing boats, refrigerators, and landline phones have been removed. Additionally, the monthly income limit for a family member has been raised from Rs 10 thousand to Rs 15 thousand.

Programme Preparations and Participation

At a meeting attended by senior officials from the Rural Development Ministry, Chouhan provided necessary instructions for preparing the programme. State ministers expressed their commitment to fully participate in the event. The Union minister highlighted that almost all of the target of constructing 2.95 crore houses by March 2024 has been approved, with 2.65 crore houses already completed.

The Union cabinet recently approved the implementation of PMAY-G for FY 2024-25 to 2028-29. Over the next five years, two crore more houses will be built under PMAY-G to address housing needs that have arisen over time. This construction is expected to benefit nearly 10 crore individuals.

Chouhan added that houses built under the scheme are well-equipped and complete. He emphasised that this initiative would lay the foundation for poverty-free villages and a developed India. "In true sense, this scheme will prove to be the foundation stone of poverty-free village and developed India," he said.

The Ministry of Rural Development decided to remove unnecessary conditions after consulting with states and stakeholders. This decision aims to truly realise the objective of housing for all.