Ministry Moves to Expand Housing and Employment Benefits for Vulnerable Workers

The Ministry of Labour and Employment aims to extend the benefits of Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) to economically vulnerable workers. This initiative, approved by the Union Cabinet, seeks to provide housing to 2 crore eligible beneficiaries by 2028-29. An operational MIS portal will help track fund utilization and coverage under various social security schemes.

The Ministry of Labour and Employment announced on Tuesday the commencement of efforts to extend the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) benefits to economically vulnerable workers.

The ministry has directed state governments to include migrant workers, building workers, beedi workers, cine workers, non-coal mine workers, contract labourers, and other unorganized workers under the PMAY umbrella, according to an official statement.

This decision follows the Union Cabinet's recent approval to continue PMAY for an additional five years, aiming to provide 2 crore more houses to deserving beneficiaries by fiscal year 2028-29. Recognizing the pressing housing requirements of economically disadvantaged workers, the ministry stressed that ensuring their inclusion in the PMAY is both a matter of social justice and essential for improving living conditions.

(With inputs from agencies.)