Odisha to deploy AI to weed out fake housing scheme beneficiaries

In a bid to ensure transparency and accountability in housing programmes, the Odisha government has decided to adopt Artificial Intelligence (AI) to identify ineligible beneficiaries of state and central housing schemes, said Panchayati Raj and Drinking Water department minister, Rabi Narayan Naik on Wednesday.

The minister said AI will be deployed to monitor beneficiaries under flagship initiatives such as the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY). The technology will help flag cases where individuals, despite already owning pucca houses or receiving benefits under other housing or Antyodaya schemes, have managed to avail additional assistance.

“The department has started the process of using AI to detect such irregularities. Although instances of beneficiaries not constructing houses after receiving aid are very limited, we are keeping a close watch,” Naik told reporters.

Naik further said that field officials have been directed to ensure that all sanctioned houses are completed within the stipulated timeframe. Strict action, including recovery of funds, may be taken against those found misusing the schemes, he warned.

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By introducing AI-based monitoring, the government hopes to simplify the verification process, improve efficiency, and make sure that housing benefits reach only deserving families. The initiative, officials said, is also expected to strengthen public trust in welfare schemes and reduce leakages in fund utilisation.