Bhubaneswar, Sept 4: Odisha Panchayati Raj Minister Rabi Narayan Nayak on Thursday announced that the state government will distribute as many as 50,000 Antyodaya houses to economically weaker families on September 17, marking the birthday of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The initiative is part of the Antyodaya Gruha Yojana, a flagship housing scheme aimed at providing pucca homes to the most vulnerable sections of society, the Minister said.

The distribution will take place across multiple districts, with priority given to widows, persons with disabilities, single mothers, and families affected by natural disasters such as floods and fires.

 According to Minister Nayak, over one lakh beneficiaries have already been identified under the Antyodaya Gruha Yojana, and the government has received nearly 35 lakh applications for the upcoming phase of the PM Awas Yojana.

The Antyodaya Gruha Yojana was launched earlier this year with the goal of constructing over 5 lakh houses in phases, backed by an investment of Rs7,500 crore. Each beneficiary will receive Rs1.2 lakh in housing assistance, disbursed in installments based on construction progress. The scheme is designed to ensure timely completion and quality housing for those who have long been excluded from previous housing programs.

Minister Nayak emphasized that this initiative reflects the government’s commitment to inclusive development and social justice. “This is not just about building homes—it’s about restoring dignity and security to those who need it most,” he said.