Maharashtra Bolsters Rural Housing with ₹50,000 PMAY Subsidy Boost

The Maharashtra government unveiled a significant enhancement to its rural housing efforts on Sunday, pledging an additional ₹50,000 subsidy for families building homes under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY), India’s flagship affordable housing program. The decision, approved by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, elevates the total financial assistance per rural household to ₹2.1 lakh, amplifying support for a state tasked with delivering 20 lakh homes within a year—the largest such target in the country.

The announcement, detailed by Rural Development Minister Jayakumar Gore in Dharashiv, reflects Maharashtra’s resolve to address persistent housing shortages among its rural poor. Under PMAY’s Gramin (rural) phase, the central government typically provides ₹1.2 lakh per home, with states contributing ₹40,000. Maharashtra’s new ₹50,000 top-up, funded from state coffers, aims to ease the burden on beneficiaries, many of whom struggle to bridge the gap between subsidies and rising construction costs. “This is about fulfilling dreams of homeownership,” Mr. Gore said, emphasizing the state’s commitment to the scheme’s success.

The initiative aligns with PMAY’s broader goals, launched in 2015 to provide “Housing for All” by 2029. Maharashtra has already disbursed funds for 10 lakh homes, with the remaining tranche due within 15 days, officials said. The state’s rural housing push gained momentum under PMAY-G Phase 2, which began in January 2025 with surveys to identify eligible families—those without pucca (concrete) homes and earning below a set income threshold.

While the subsidy hike has been welcomed, challenges loom. Delays in fund releases and bureaucratic hurdles have historically slowed PMAY’s progress in rural areas. Still, with 20 lakh beneficiaries poised to benefit, Maharashtra’s move signals a robust step toward inclusive growth in a state where rural poverty remains a pressing concern.