Rajkot's Affordable Housing Revolution Starts with PMAY-Urban Phase II
The Union Cabinet's recent approval of government help for building three crore houses under PMAY-Urban, including Rajkot, marks a big step in solving the urban housing problem. This second phase of the main program targets middle-class and economically weak families, ensuring affordable homes while boosting local economies.
Main Points of PMAY-Urban Phase II
Focused Help:
- Targets three income groups: Economically Weaker Section (EWS), Low Income Group (LIG), and Middle Income Group (MIG).
- Focuses on families without permanent homes anywhere in India.
Financial Help:
- Central help up to ₹2.5 lakh per house for eligible people.
- Income limits vary: ≤₹3 lakh annually for AHP/BLC verticals and ≤₹9 lakh annually for ISS verticals.
Easy Processes:
- Direct application site: pmay-urban.gov.in.
- Aadhaar needed for eligibility check.
How Rajkot Gains
Rajkot, a growing city in Gujarat, will benefit greatly from this phase. PMAY-U 2.0 aims to:
- Fix Urban Housing Shortages: Help families in crowded or informal areas.
- Boost Local Building: Create jobs and demand for building materials.
- Match Smart City Goals: Encourage planned urban growth with infrastructure upgrades.
Eligibility Rules
| Category | Income Limit | Target Group |
|---|---|---|
| EWS/LIG | ≤₹3 lakh annually | Economically disadvantaged families |
| MIG | ≤₹9 lakh annually | Middle-class households |
Steps for Applicants
- Check Eligibility: Make sure you don't own a permanent house and have a valid Aadhaar.
- Apply: Go to the PMAY-U site or contact local urban bodies (ULBs) in Rajkot for help.
- Track: Get real-time updates on housing progress via government sites.
Economic and Social Effects
PMAY-U 2.0's start fits with Modi 3.0’s goal of housing for everyone, spreading resources to often-ignored urban areas. For Rajkot, this means:
- Job Creation: Upcoming IT hubs and corporate projects are expected to boost employment opportunities.
- Social Mobility: Safe homes let families invest in education and healthcare.
- Infrastructure Growth: New projects may bring more investments in utilities and transport in Rajkot.
The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs stresses no delays in payments, making this phase more clear and efficient than before. As Rajkot’s city population grows, PMAY-U 2.0 provides a plan for inclusive, sustainable growth.