Nazim Ali Manhas
POONCH, DD: District Poonch has achieved an extraordinary milestone in the financial year 2024–25 by completing a record 14,737 houses under the Pradhan Mantri Awaas Yojana– Gramin (PMAY-G). The remarkable accomplishment stands as a testament to the district administration’s firm commitment to rural development, inclusive growth, and the national objective of “Housing for All.”
The Pradhan Mantri Awaas Yojana – Gramin, a flagship housing scheme of the Government of India, aims to provide pucca houses with all basic amenities to the homeless and those living in kutcha houses in rural areas. In line with this vision, District Poonch, under the focused and mission-driven leadership of District Development Commissioner Vikas Kundal, successfully navigated administrative challenges and geographic constraints to deliver housing to thousands of eligible families across the district.
What makes this achievement even more noteworthy is the scale and efficiency of financial disbursement. A total of Rs. 14,631.50 lakh was credited directly into the bank accounts of 39,064 beneficiaries through the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) mechanism. This ensured transparency, eliminated middlemen, and empowered beneficiaries to build homes according to their needs. The robust and timely disbursement of funds also reflects the administration’s commitment to good governance and responsive public service delivery.
This progress was made possible through the coordinated efforts of the officers and field-level workers of the Rural Development Department and other stakeholders who worked tirelessly under the strategic direction of the District Development Commissioner.
Regular monitoring, field visits, use of digital technology, and grievance redressal mechanisms further strengthened the scheme’s implementation and helped accelerate the pace of construction across the district.
Beyond numbers, the successful execution of PMAY-G in District Poonch has had a transformative impact on the lives of thousands of rural families. For many beneficiaries, owning a permanent house has meant a life of dignity, safety, and stability. The provision of secure housing has also catalyzed improvements in sanitation, health, education, and overall well-being, contributing to the holistic development of rural communities.
Moreover, the initiative has generated employment opportunities for local artisans, laborers, and material suppliers, giving a boost to the local economy. It has fostered community participation and strengthened the social fabric by promoting inclusive growth and equitable access to government benefits.
The record-setting completion of 14,737 PMAY-G houses in a single financial year not only reflects the efficiency and dedication of the district administration but also sets a new benchmark for performance and innovation in rural development. This achievement is a source of pride for the entire district and stands as an inspiring example for other districts across the Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir and the nation.
As District Poonch continues on its journey of development, the successful implementation of PMAY-G serves as a strong foundation for future progress. Under the continued guidance of the DDC Vikas Kundal, the district remains committed to uplifting the living standards of its rural population and fulfilling the dream of every citizen to own a home.DD
