Delhi to extend PM-Uday deadline as unauthorised colony scheme sees slow uptake

The Delhi government is weighing an extension to the deadline for applications under the Pradhan Mantri Unauthorised Colonies in Delhi (PM-Uday) scheme, reflecting concerns over tepid citizen engagement with the initiative.

The scheme, launched to formalise property ownership across Delhi's unauthorised colonies, aims to benefit more than four million residents spread across 1,511 unauthorised colonies in the national capital. The initiative represents one of the government's most ambitious attempts to regularise informal housing settlements and provide legal ownership documentation to long-term residents.

Within unauthorised colonies, residents have historically lacked formal property rights despite years of occupation. The PM-Uday scheme was designed to bridge this gap by granting ownership rights and enabling residents to access formal financial services, insurance, and other benefits tied to property ownership.

The proposed extension comes as officials report unexpectedly low application numbers during the initial window. The deadline adjustment is intended to provide residents with additional time to file applications and gather required documentation, addressing administrative and awareness challenges that may have deterred participation in the first phase.

Authorities have not yet announced a revised deadline, but the extension is expected to be formally communicated to residents soon. Government officials are also considering steps to boost awareness and simplify the application process to encourage higher participation rates.