When we talk about development in India, Bihar is not usually the first name that comes to mind. But something remarkable is happening something that has put Bihar ahead of many developed countries in one key area: housing for the poor. Thanks to the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY), Bihar has built more homes for its people than the total population of entire nations like Norway, New Zealand, and Singapore.
Launched in 2015, the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana aims to provide every poor Indian family with a pucca (permanent) house. The scheme has both rural and urban versions. In rural areas (PMAY-G), beneficiaries receive up to ₹1.2 lakh (₹1.3 lakh in hilly regions) in financial aid. They also get support for building toilets and wages under MGNREGA. The funds are transferred directly into their bank accounts to ensure transparency.
Over 40 Lakh Homes Built
Under the PMAY-Gramin (rural) scheme, Bihar has built more than 4 million (40 lakh) homes. This is more than the population of:
- Singapore (approx. 5.8 million)
- New Zealand (approx. 5.2 million)
- Norway (approx. 5.4 million)
Let that sink in — just one Indian state has constructed more houses for the rural poor than the number of people living in some of the most developed countries in the world.
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How to Apply
Step 1:
Make sure you meet the eligibility criteria. You should belong to an economically weaker section, not own a pucca house, and your name should be listed in the SECC-2011 data (Socio-Economic Caste Census).
Step 2:
Visit the official PMAY-Gramin website: https://pmayg.nic.in or go to your nearest Gram Panchayat office.
Step 3:
If applying online, click on the ‘Awassoft’ link and select ‘Data Entry’. You will need your registration number to proceed.
Step 4:
Fill in the required details, including your Aadhaar number, family income, bank account number, and other personal information.
Step 5:
Upload necessary documents such as your identity proof, address proof, and bank passbook copy.
Step 6:
Submit the application. Once submitted, you will receive an acknowledgement or application ID to track your application status.
Bihar’s housing success under PM Modi’s flagship scheme is proof that meaningful change is possible when planning, policy, and political will come together. This housing revolution is setting an example for other states and even other nations to follow.