Housing scheme progress lags in Jharkhand, only 2.97% completed

Mail News Service

Jamshedpur: The implementation of the Pradhan Mantri Janman Awas Yojana in Jharkhand has been sluggish, with only 510 houses constructed out of the targeted 17,199 across 24 districts. This accounts for just 2.97% of the total target, despite funds being allocated to Block Development Officer (BDO) offices nine months ago under the 2023-24 financial year.

The slow progress is particularly concerning for the primitive tribal families identified under the scheme. According to the Rural Development Department, 23,226 families were identified and 17,199 houses were approved for construction, with each beneficiary receiving Rs 2 lakh in four installments.

However, district-wise data reveals stark gaps. Ranchi, West Singhbhum, Saraikela, Khunti and Giridih have not completed a single house, while Sahebganj leads with only 106 completed houses out of 2,542 approvals.

“The lack of regular monitoring by BDO offices and the simplicity of primitive tribes are key factors causing delays. Government officials, Panchayat representatives and employees often take advantage of this situation,” stated an official associated with the scheme.

Under the scheme, beneficiaries receive Rs 30,000 as an advance, followed by instalments of Rs 50,000 and Rs 1 lakh as construction progresses. An additional Rs 20,000 is provided for painting after the house is completed. Despite these provisions, only 14,330 beneficiaries have received the first instalment and a mere 210 have received the final payment.

MNREGA Commissioner Mrityunjay Barnwal expressed concern over the slow pace and called for immediate action. “All Deputy Commissioners (DCs) and Deputy Development Commissioners (DDCs) have been instructed to monitor the scheme closely and ensure timely completion of houses. Additionally, a request has been made to the central government for funds under the 2024-25 financial year to approve housing for new beneficiaries,” Barnwal said.

The government remains hopeful of improving progress in the coming months to fulfil its commitment to providing housing for all eligible families.