PMAY Kerala Gets Approval for 1.97 Lakh Homes

The Union Government has sanctioned the construction of 1.97 lakh houses under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) for the ongoing financial year.

Among the approved units, 60,000 houses are earmarked for members of Scheduled Tribes, reflecting an inclusive approach towards housing for marginalised communities. This development brings much-needed relief to Kerala, where the quest for sustainable, equitable housing has been a critical policy focus. The construction of these homes is being integrated with the state’s flagship LIFE Mission, a comprehensive scheme aimed at eradicating homelessness and promoting eco-friendly living environments.

Under the present funding arrangement, the Centre will contribute Rs 72,000 per house. However, the actual construction cost under the LIFE Mission stands at approximately Rs 4 lakh per unit, necessitating a substantial financial commitment from the state and local self-governments. Officials involved with the project indicate that an estimated Rs 6,461.6 crore will be required to meet Kerala’s share, translating to around Rs 3.28 lakh per house. Despite the enthusiasm around the approval, the journey to secure this allocation has not been without friction. Over the past two years, the Centre withheld the allotment of over 2 lakh houses following disagreements on the branding of PMAY homes. The state government had firmly resisted the Centre’s mandate to display PMAY logos prominently on houses, citing concerns over the dignity and privacy of the beneficiaries. Letters sent by Kerala officials requesting reconsideration reportedly received no formal response for an extended period.

The recent approval of 1.97 lakh houses and the release of Rs 64 crore as the first instalment marks a positive turning point, albeit with lingering financial hurdles. According to officials, the main challenge now lies in raising the requisite funds within the stipulated timeline, ensuring that construction progresses without delay. Experts observing the sector note that Kerala’s commitment to sustainable urban development has set a benchmark nationally. By merging central housing schemes with its LIFE Mission, the state has consistently advocated for environmentally responsible construction practices, gender-neutral policies, and equitable access to urban resources. The LIFE Mission’s emphasis on green building standards, community-centric planning, and minimal environmental footprint aligns seamlessly with the global movement towards net-zero cities.

Industry analysts suggest that the success of this project could have wider implications, potentially influencing other states to follow Kerala’s integrated model of housing development. “Kerala’s strategy of embedding sustainable principles within affordable housing not only addresses the immediate shelter needs but also supports a broader vision of resilient urbanisation,” an urban policy expert remarked. However, financing remains a daunting task. While the Centre’s support is critical, Kerala’s financial health, impacted by multiple factors including post-pandemic recovery efforts and revenue shortfalls, poses challenges in mobilising the required state share. Experts warn that unless innovative funding mechanisms are explored—such as leveraging public-private partnerships or accessing green infrastructure funds—delays could risk the timely delivery of these much-needed homes.

Local government representatives emphasise that successful completion of the project will require unwavering cooperation between the Centre, the state, and local bodies. They point out that community participation, transparent fund utilisation, and swift administrative clearances will be key to ensuring that the benefits reach the targeted beneficiaries, particularly the Scheduled Tribe households and economically vulnerable groups. In a broader context, Kerala’s housing drive underlines the essential role of affordable, dignified housing in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 11, which aspires to make cities inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable. The emphasis on constructing houses that are not merely shelters but are also socially and environmentally sustainable fits squarely within the aspirations of creating equitable urban futures.

While political differences have historically strained Centre-state relations on various issues, the recent sanction suggests a recognition of Kerala’s housing needs at the national level. It also offers a window for both sides to collaborate more meaningfully on issues of public welfare and sustainable development. As work begins on these new homes, there is cautious optimism among officials and experts alike. If successfully executed, the project could not only offer immediate shelter to nearly two lakh families but could also position Kerala as a model for inclusive, low-carbon, citizen-centric housing initiatives in India.

The coming months will test Kerala’s administrative will and financial ingenuity. But if the LIFE Mission’s past track record is any indicator, the state is likely to pursue this opportunity with the determination needed to build not just homes, but a more sustainable and equitable future.

PMAY Kerala Gets Approval for 1.97 Lakh Homes