Odisha to construct nearly 2.91 lakh additional houses for poor

The Odisha government has announced plans to construct an additional 2.91 lakh houses for the poor by reallocating resources from its existing housing scheme. The state will redirect approximately Rs 3,500 crore earlier earmarked for repair and maintenance components towards new house construction, significantly expanding its affordable housing programme.

The decision reflects the government's prioritisation of shelter as a key development objective. By channelling funds from repair allocations into new construction, Odisha aims to address the substantial housing deficit affecting economically weaker sections across the state.

The construction initiative is expected to provide permanent housing solutions to vulnerable populations currently residing in inadequate or informal structures. The reallocation strategy enables the government to utilise existing budgetary resources more efficiently without requiring fresh allocations from the state exchequer.

This expansion of the housing programme aligns with broader national objectives to ensure adequate shelter for all citizens. The project's implementation will involve coordination between state housing authorities and local administration to identify beneficiaries and oversee construction across various districts in Odisha.