Recent Initiatives:

• The Indian government has launched a nationwide survey of kutcha houses.
• Introduction of the Awas Sakhi mobile app to streamline housing assistance.

Purpose of the Kutcha House Survey

• Identify Housing Needs: The survey aims to collect data on families living in kutcha (temporary) houses, enabling targeted support for those in need.
• Support for Awas Sakhi App: The survey will enhance the functionality of the Awas Sakhi app, facilitating the application process and providing beneficiaries with vital housing information.

Overview of PMAY-G

• Launch: Initiated in 2016, PMAY-G aims to provide secure housing for the poorest communities.
• Beneficiary Selection Process: A comprehensive three-stage validation, including the Socio-Economic Caste Census 2011, Gram Sabha approvals, and geo-tagging, ensures that aid reaches those most deserving.

Benefits for PMAY-G Beneficiaries

• Financial Assistance:
  • ?1.20 lakh for families in plain areas.
  • ?1.30 lakh for families in hilly regions, including northeastern states and union territories.
• Support for Sanitation:
  • An additional ?12,000 for toilet construction, aligned with the Swachh Bharat Mission – Gramin or MGNREGS.
• Employment Opportunities:
  • Provision of 90/95 days of unskilled wage employment through MGNREGA for house construction.
• Access to Basic Amenities:
  • Connections for water, LPG, and electricity facilitated through relevant schemes.
• Cost Sharing Structure:
  • Expenses are shared in a 60:40 ratio for plain areas and a 90:10 ratio for northeastern states and selected Himalayan states. The Centre covers 100% of costs for other Union Territories.

Progress Under PMAY-G

• Targets: The government aims to construct 2.95 crore houses.
• Current Status: As of August 2024, 2.94 crore houses have been sanctioned, with 2.64 crore completed, enhancing living conditions for millions in rural areas.

Recent Developments

• In August 2024, the Union Cabinet approved funding for two crore additional houses at existing assistance rates.
• Eligibility Criteria Changes:
  • Individuals owning bikes or scooters are now eligible.
  • The income limit for eligibility has been raised from ?10,000 to ?15,000 per month.

Future Goals

• This initiative, spanning FY 2024-2029, aims to address ongoing housing demands, benefiting approximately 10 crore individuals by providing safe, hygienic, and socially inclusive housing.