Bhubaneswar, Aug 7: Odisha Panchayati Raj and Drinking Water Minister Rabi Narayan Naik announced a major push to complete pending housing projects under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY), with new directives expected to roll out from November.

Speaking to media, Naik revealed that over 4 lakh houses sanctioned since 2016 remain incomplete, but the state aims to finish all of them by October.

The minister emphasized the central government’s renewed commitment to PMAY, stating that the financial assistance per house has been increased from ₹1.2 lakh to ₹1.8 lakh, excluding the ₹20,000 wage component under MGNREGA. This brings the total support to ₹2 lakh per beneficiary.

Highlighting the state’s broader development goals, the Panchayati Raj Minister said that 80% of Odisha’s population relies on rural infrastructure, and the government is determined to deliver model homes equipped with clean drinking water, electricity, and toilets. The toilet construction aid has also been proposed to increase from ₹12,000 to ₹20,000.

In addition to PMAY, the minister discussed the Antyodaya Gruha Yojana, which will provide housing support to families affected by natural disasters, fire, or elephant attacks. He also noted that 18 mega projects under the Har Ghar Jal scheme have been completed, and 21 more will be finished by August 25.

Naik confirmed that discussions with central leaders and the Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi have taken place to ensure smooth implementation. He also mentioned that the state plans to execute 1,000 solar projects within a year, a significant leap from the previous government’s 18.

The MGNREGA scheme will also see a boost, with financial assistance for eligible individuals rising from ₹1 lakh to ₹6 lakh, aiming to uplift the poorest sections of society.

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