The Narendra Modi-led central government’s ambitious Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Urban) programme is likely to cross the final lap in the Budget 2021 as the deadline for the scheme is next year.The mission which was launched in June 2015 intends to provide housing for all in urban areas by 2022 As per government data, the government has sanctioned 109.2 lakh houses against the demand of 112.2 lakh houses in Indian cities, of which over 70 lakh houses have been grounded (foundation laid) for construction and work is in various stages. Over 41 lakh houses have been completed till January. The Centre provides assistance to the implementing agencies through Central Nodal Agencies (CNAs) and states for providing houses to all eligible families/ beneficiaries against the validated demand for houses.4th Indian Cement Review Conference 202117-18 March Click for event info_________________________________________________________________________________ The Centre faces a major challenge in encouraging States to complete the construction of grounded houses to achieve the target by the next year. To ensure availability of funds, in addition to budgetary resources, the government has already created the National Urban Housing Fund (NUHF) of Rs 60,000 crore for raising extra-budgetary resources in phases for rapid implementation of the scheme. Out of the committed central assistance of Rs 175,737 crore, about 47% ( Rs 82,978 crore) has been released till this month. Over 87% of the released amount has been utilised for construction. Importance of the scheme In-situ Slum Redevelopment (ISSR), affordable housing in partnership with the public or private sector and beneficiary-led individual house construction enhancements are three components of the scheme. The fourth component includes the Credit Linked Subsidy Scheme covering economically weaker sections, low-income, and middle-income groups in urban areas. Housing for the slum dwellers and other people belonging to economically weaker sections in cities was one of the major promises made by the BJP during the 2014 elections.