Bhubaneswar: In a major push toward ensuring “Housing for All,” the Odisha government has announced that it will provide housing assistance to 10 lakh eligible beneficiaries under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) by the end of January 2026.
The initiative, described by the state government as a “New Year gift” for the economically weaker sections, aims to transition families from kutcha dwellings to permanent, “pucca” houses. The PMAY scheme remains a cornerstone of social welfare, designed to provide financial aid to low-income groups, middle-income groups, and slum dwellers to help them secure dignified living conditions with basic amenities.
Speaking on the development, Panchayati Raj and Drinking Water Minister Rabi Narayan Naik informed media persons that the state has seen an overwhelming response to the scheme, receiving approximately 37 lakh applications from across Odisha.
Following a rigorous verification process to ensure transparency and merit, the state government has shortlisted 34 lakh applicants. The consolidated list of these beneficiaries has already been submitted to the Union government for final approval.
Phased Implementation The Minister clarified that the distribution of aid will occur in a phased manner:
First Phase: 10 lakh beneficiaries will receive assistance by the end of this month once the Centre’s nod is received.
Funding: Eligible beneficiaries under PMAY and the state’s allied Antyodaya Yojana are expected to receive financial assistance of ₹1.20 lakh each for house construction.
Completion Bonuses: To encourage timely construction, the government has also highlighted incentives, such as a ₹20,000 bonus for those who complete their houses within four months and ₹10,000 for completion within six months.
The state government is currently working in close coordination with the Central government to expedite the release of funds. Minister Naik emphasized that the administration is committed to ensuring that no eligible family is left behind, even mentioning that those excluded from the PMAY list for technical reasons may be covered under the state’s own housing initiatives.
This massive undertaking is expected to significantly improve the rural and urban landscape of Odisha, providing a secure roof to lakhs of families who have long awaited permanent housing.
