The Ministry of Rural Development told the Central Information Commission that eligible migrant labourers cannot be denied pucca houses under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana-Gramin merely because they are temporarily residing outside their native village for employment. The clarification arose during a hearing of a right to information appeal in which an applicant had sought information on whether rural families migrating temporarily for work could be deprived of benefits under PMAY-G and other rural welfare schemes. The ministry framed the response as a factual clarification to address the appellant's concerns.

The ministry informed the commission that there is no specific order, circular or rule issued by the ministry to the effect that a family shall be denied benefits under PMAY-G solely on the grounds of temporary residence outside its native place for employment or labour purposes. It also stated that eligibility under PMAY-G is determined in accordance with the framework and guidelines issued by the Centre and that the scheme is implemented by state governments. The commission specifically enquired whether any policy exists that denies PMAY-G benefits to eligible beneficiaries because they are staying outside their native place.

The ministry explained that beneficiaries under PMAY-G are identified on the basis of housing deprivation parameters under the Socio-Economic and Caste Census 2011, followed by verification through Gram Sabhas and the prescribed appeal process. It added that financial assistance is provided to eligible rural households that are homeless or living in kutcha houses, subject to the scheme guidelines. The information commissioner observed that the respondents had explained the factual position regarding the issues raised in the right to information application.

The commission asked the ministry and the Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation to furnish a point-wise reply with factual information and policy copies. The clarification should help migrant families seek entitlements.