Odisha govt to distribute another 1 lakh houses under Antyodaya Gruha next month

The Odisha government is preparing to take a major leap in its mission to provide housing for the underprivileged by distributing another one lakh houses under the Antyodaya Gruha (Housing Scheme) next month. The initiative is aimed at extending the benefits of secure shelter to more economically and socially backward families across the state, thereby promoting inclusive growth and welfare.

This development was informed by Panchayati Raj and Drinking Water Minister Rabi Nayak, who stated that the Odisha government has resolved to add one lakh more beneficiaries to the flagship housing program in the upcoming phase. 

The minister further said that this decision comes after the successful rollout of the first phase, where 60,000 beneficiaries were included and provided houses under the scheme.

“We have set a target of 1 lakh houses under Antodaya Gruha Yojana. We have already sent letters to Collectors and other officials and soon the work will be executed. Those who are disabled, widows, and other eligible beneficiaries will be included as they were earlier left out for some reason,“ said the Minister.

Survey Underway

To ensure that the benefits reach all eligible citizens, the state government has launched an extensive housing survey, which is currently underway and expected to continue until the end of May. This survey is designed to identify and register those in need of housing assistance, particularly individuals and families who are yet to be covered under any existing government housing schemes.

Minister Naik also informed that so far, over 29 lakh potential beneficiaries have already been identified and added through the ongoing survey. He emphasized the importance of community awareness and participation, highlighting that the state administration has undertaken a massive awareness campaign across rural and remote areas to ensure that no eligible family is left out.

The Antyodaya Housing Scheme forms a crucial part of the Odisha government's broader social welfare strategy, focusing on enhancing the quality of life of marginalized communities, especially those living below the poverty line. The scheme not only provides physical shelter but also aims to empower families by giving them a sense of dignity and security.

Officials involved in the implementation said that the new phase of distribution would involve close coordination with block-level and panchayat-level authorities to ensure transparency, timely allocation, and proper execution of the construction process. Beneficiaries will also be encouraged to participate in the construction of their homes, further boosting local employment and ownership.

The expansion of the housing scheme is expected to have a multifaceted impact, from improving health and hygiene conditions to boosting rural livelihoods through increased construction activity. Experts believe that such measures are essential in bridging the rural-urban development gap and supporting the state’s vision of “Housing for All.”

As Odisha continues its journey toward social equity and economic resilience, the proactive steps taken under the Antyodaya Housing Scheme stand as a testament to the government's commitment to inclusive and people-centric governance.