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

Rs 2072.67 Crore spent so far, 85.04% of target houses constructed

Under the dynamic leadership of Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma and Minister for Housing and Urban Affairs Ashok Singhal, Assam’s Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Urban) program is making remarkable strides in realizing the vision of sustainable housing for all. As of September 22, 2023, this visionary initiative has approved an impressive 551 Detailed Project Reports (DPRs), signaling 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 Crores and a corresponding state share of Rs. 546.15 Crores. Every rupee has been meticulously invested, and Utilization 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 Crores.

But PMAY(U)’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 Crores. While CLSS benefits concluded after 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 program’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 Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA), Government of India, in 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, Hon’ble 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.

In sum, Assam’s Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana – Housing for All – Urban is a beacon of hope, progress, and community empowerment. These milestones, achievements, and best practices underscore the dedication of the Government of Assam to transform lives and ensure that the dream of owning a home becomes a reality for all.

It may be recalled that on June 25, 2015, Prime Minister Narendra Modi initiated the groundbreaking Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Urban) program, 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.