The Central Government has completed 679 houses under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) in Bhaderwah, Jammu and Kashmir, marking a significant stride towards its goal of 'Housing for All'. According to the Block Development Officer (BDO), 718 beneficiaries were identified in the 2023–24 financial year, with over 94 per cent of homes already delivered.

BDO Yasir Ahmed Wani stated, “The completion of 679 houses in a single year demonstrates our team’s dedication and the government’s commitment to uplifting the most vulnerable. Special attention was given to impoverished and tribal families who had been living in unsafe, unhygienic conditions. Many now have permanent homes with essential facilities, greatly enhancing their quality of life.”

He added that efforts are underway to achieve 100 per cent coverage of eligible households in the coming months.

The PMAY scheme has transformed the lives of Bhaderwah’s underprivileged, particularly those in hilly, remote areas. The housing initiative has enabled families from economically weaker sections to realise their dream of owning a resilient, well-equipped home.

For residents like Shahdi Lal, a 66-year-old daily wage labourer, the scheme has been life-changing. “Earlier, I lived in a dilapidated mud-walled house with my family. During thunderstorms and rains, it was a constant struggle. Thanks to the government, I now have a solid home. At my age, building a house with my income was impossible. This new home has brought us dignity and protection from the severe cold,” he said.