Ministry of Labour Expands PMAY Benefits to Marginalised Workers Across India

The Ministry emphasized that these workers represent a disadvantaged section of society, and ensuring their inclusion under PMAY is a matter of social justice as well as a crucial step towards improving their living conditions.

In a significant effort to improve the welfare of marginalized workers, the Ministry of Labour and Employment has initiated a move to extend the benefits of the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) to disadvantaged workers across the country. The Ministry has issued a directive to all State Governments, urging them to include migrant workers, building workers, beedi workers, cine workers, non-coal mine workers, contract laborers, and other unorganized workers under the housing scheme.

This decision follows the Union Cabinet's approval to extend PMAY for an additional five years, from FY 2024-25 to 2028-29, with a goal of providing 2 crore additional houses to eligible beneficiaries. The initiative acknowledges the pressing housing needs of economically vulnerable workers.

The Ministry emphasized that these workers represent a disadvantaged section of society, and ensuring their inclusion under PMAY is a matter of social justice as well as a crucial step towards improving their living conditions.

Fully Functional MIS Portal for Workers' Welfare

In addition, the Ministry announced that the Management Information System (MIS) portal, launched on 21st August 2024 for Building & Construction and Migrant Workers, is now fully operational. This portal is designed to facilitate the collection and analysis of data, including information on fund utilization and workers' coverage under various central and state social security schemes, such as insurance, health benefits, and housing initiatives.

The centralized data management system will enable State Governments and Union Territories to make informed decisions and develop more effective welfare policies tailored to the needs of these deprived workers.

Collaborative Effort for Worker Upliftment

Reiterating the importance of a collaborative effort to uplift these marginalized workers, the Ministry has instructed Welfare Commissioners in various states to work closely with local authorities to ensure the successful implementation of these initiatives.

The Ministry is following up on this initiative through a series of regional meetings with States and Union Territories, scheduled between 29th August and 4th October 2024.

This move is expected to significantly improve the lives of millions of workers, ensuring they receive the housing and social security benefits they rightfully deserve.