Goa is on the cusp of a significant achievement in affordable housing. The state government, under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY), has nearly completed its ambitious project to build homes for eligible beneficiaries. This initiative significantly boosts the availability of affordable homes in Goa.
PMAY Goa: Building Homes, Fulfilling Dreams
The Goa government has made remarkable progress, constructing 250 out of a target of 254 houses for eligible families. P.K. Shirodkar, the nodal officer for the scheme and director of the District Rural Development Agency, confirmed this positive development. “We have constructed 250 houses to date, diligently following all scheme procedures,” Shirodkar stated. “We will complete the remaining four houses within the next two to three months.”
This vital project, aimed at providing affordable housing solutions, involved a total investment of ₹3.4 crore. Chief Minister Pramod Sawant’s administration has effectively managed these funds to deliver on its promise of housing for all in the state.
Understanding the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana in Goa
The Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana stands as a flagship central government scheme, spearheaded by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. It focuses on affordable housing for rural households across the nation. The funding structure for this scheme follows a 60:40 ratio, with the central government contributing 60% and the state government covering the remaining 40%. This collaborative effort ensures widespread implementation and success.
Addressing Construction Costs: A Call for Increased Support
Goa presents unique challenges regarding construction costs. Officials have highlighted that the current PMAY disbursement of ₹1.2 lakh needs an increase, as building expenses in Goa surpass those in other states. For instance, constructing a modest 50-square-meter house typically requires a minimum of ₹10 lakh to ₹15 lakh, underscoring the need for greater financial assistance to beneficiaries.
Future of Affordable Housing in Goa
With the current target nearing completion, the state government has already initiated a survey to identify additional eligible beneficiaries for the current financial year. This proactive approach demonstrates Goa’s commitment to continuing its efforts in affordable housing development.
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Real Stories: PMAY Transforms Lives in Goa
The impact of the PMAY scheme resonates deeply with its beneficiaries. Mathura Vithal Desai, from the remote Advalpal village in North Goa’s Bicholim taluka, shared her heartfelt gratitude. Her six-member family previously lived in a dilapidated mud house, enduring harsh conditions, especially during the monsoon season. “Snakes even entered our house,” she recalled. “After applying for PMAY, we received the funds. We invested some of our savings and successfully built our new home.”
Similarly, Rohini Rohidas Kuttikar from Odlebhat – St. Cruz near Panaji expressed her appreciation. She credits the government’s support through the PMAY scheme with enabling her family to construct their own house, fulfilling a long-held dream.
