Patna: In a significant boost to rural housing, Bihar has provided permanent homes to more than 39 lakh underprivileged families over the past ten years under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Gramin). The scheme, aimed at ensuring “housing for all” by 2030, has witnessed an expenditure of over ₹53,949 crore for construction, financial assistance, and allied services.
Financial Assistance and Eligibility
Each beneficiary receives a total assistance of ₹1,54,000, which includes:
- ₹1,20,000 for house construction
- ₹22,050 as wages under 90 days of MGNREGA work
- ₹12,000 for building a toilet
To avail benefits, the applicant must own at least 25 square meters of land. Priority is given to families where:
- There is no adult member between 16 and 59 years of age
- No adult member above 25 is literate
- One member is differently-abled and no other capable adult is available
Achievements by Year and Phase
According to the Rural Development Department, the most significant progress was made between FY 2016-17 and FY 2021-22, when 36,67,561 beneficiaries received completed houses. During this period, approvals were given for 37,01,138 houses, with multiple installments disbursed to ensure construction completion.
For the second phase (FY 2024-25 and 2025-26), approvals have been given for 12,74,067 beneficiaries, surpassing the original target of 12,21,605. Out of these, 2,46,986 families have already completed their homes, demonstrating continued commitment to rural housing development.
Impact on Bihar’s Rural Population
Over the last decade, the implementation of the scheme has transformed the lives of 39,14,547 families in Bihar, providing them with safe and secure housing. The initiative not only addresses shelter needs but also contributes to sanitation and livelihood support through MGNREGA-linked wage components, ensuring holistic development of rural communities.
