July 3rd, Srinagar: In a historic move, the Government of Jammu and Kashmir accepted a plan to distribute 5 marlas of land to each landless PMAY (G) beneficiary.
According to a government release, the decision was made by the Administrative Council on June 21, 2023. The current allocation is limited to only the cases left out of the Permanent waiting list (PWL) 2018-19, which may later be extended to the same categories of landless beneficiaries, who otherwise become eligible for receiving housing assistance under PMAY(G) Phase-III, when the next phase of the PMAY(G) scheme is launched in 2024-25. The Deputy Commissioner responsible would evaluate the following types of Awaas plus beneficiaries for land allocation under JK revenue laws:
People residing on State land, People residing on Forest land, People residing in Rakhs and Farms land, where construction is not permitted, People residing on Custodian land, and Land allotted to displaced people by the Government for agricultural purposes near Dachigam Park, where construction is not permitted. Any other group of instances that are otherwise qualified for housing but lack sufficient land for building.”
“It is a historic day for Jammu Kashmir and a new beginning for thousands of landless families,” Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha said, adding that this historic decision will be a shining example of the administration’s commitment to social justice, equality, respect, and equal opportunities for all citizens.
“This ground-breaking decision will not only entitle the landless poor to own a piece of land and a house, but it will also provide them with a means of livelihood, raise their living standards, and enable them to realise their dreams and aspirations,” stated the Lt Governor.
According to the Lt Governor, the poor are at the focus of government programmes, and a significant population that was bereft of basic amenities and rights even after seven decades of independence is being brought into the mainstream of development.
“The government of Jammu and Kashmir is committed to inclusive development.” This step will provide unlimited chances to the impoverished and oppressed, and with this historic decision, the government recognises their enormous commitment to the job of country development,” the Lt Governor said.
