PMAY (U) in Assam: A journey of progress and inclusivity

 GUWAHATI: Under the dynamic leadership of Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and Minister for Housing and Urban Affairs Ashok Singhal, Assam's Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Urban) programme is making remarkable strides in realising the vision of sustainable housing for all. As of September 22, 2023, this visionary initiative has approved an impressive 551 detailed project reports (DPRs), signalling the green light for 1,72,544 dwelling units. Importantly, an impressive 1,64,367 houses have already touched the ground, a testament to unwavering commitment.

The financial front is equally inspiring, with a substantial central share (CS) of Rs. 1526.52 crore and a corresponding state share of Rs. 546.15 crore. Every rupee has been meticulously invested, and utilisation certificates (UCs) have been dutifully submitted to the Government of India and the Government of Assam. The total expenditure now stands at an impressive Rs. 2072.67 crore.

But PMAY's impact doesn't stop at housing. The Credit Linked Subsidy Scheme (CLSS) has extended a lifeline to 3,466 beneficiaries by sanctioning and releasing interest subsidies totaling an impressive Rs. 79.79 crore. While CLSS benefits ended on March 31, 2022, its legacy lives on.

Demonstration housing projects (DHPs) are showcasing a path forward. A project in Fatasil Ambari, comprising 40 dwelling units, is under active construction, embodying the programme's commitment to inclusivity and progress. The In-Situ Slum redevelopment (ISSR) component is gaining momentum, with a project of 64 dwelling units sanctioned by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA), Government of India, in the North Lakhimpur Municipal Board. Construction is advancing rapidly, promising improved living conditions for those in need.

The success of PMAY (U) is attributed to the adoption of best practices that go beyond bricks and mortar. These practices include an enhanced state subsidy, additional support for the economically weaker sections, empowerment of landless beneficiaries, and community engagement through innovative initiatives like foundation laying stone ceremonies and housewarming celebrations. Notably, the Chief Minister, Assam, has personally penned appreciation letters to over 1,05,247 PMAY-U beneficiaries, reinforcing the government's commitment to individual well-being. Furthermore, the "Back Log Clearance Drive 2023" is already yielding remarkable results, with 1,410 delayed houses completed and 1,308 non-started houses now under construction.

It may be recalled that on June 25, 2015, Prime Minister Narendra Modi initiated the groundbreaking Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Urban) programme, with the primary aim of providing sustainable housing solutions to underprivileged urban families across the nation by 2022. A significant development occurred on August 10, 2022, when the Union Cabinet granted approval to extend the scheme's duration until December 31, 2024, stated a press release.

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