The Uttarakhand Cabinet approved a new housing policy aimed at easing norms for economically weaker sections (EWS) under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojna. The state government increased the income limit for EWS homes to INR 5 lakh, with housing units priced at INR 9 lakh. The Cabinet also defined criteria for lower income and lower middle-income groups, with home prices ranging from INR 14 lakh to INR 25 lakh. In addition, row housing will be promoted in hill areas, subsidies for electricity consumption were reviewed, and measures were introduced to ensure compliance with the norms. The Cabinet also approved proposals for new buses, a Transgender Welfare Board, changes in academic records post-sex-change, and increased dress allowances for government drivers.
The Uttarakhand Cabinet recently approved a new housing policy aimed at benefiting the economically weaker sections (EWS) under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojna. While the Centre's limit for EWS homes is set for those earning below INR 3 lakh, the state government has raised this threshold to INR 5 lakh. The homes for EWS will have a carpet area of 30 square metres, and beneficiaries will be charged INR 9 lakh per unit. Additionally, the criteria for the lower income group (LIG) and lower middle income group (LMIG) have been defined. People earning between INR 5 lakh and INR 9 lakh will fall under the LIG category, while those earning INR 9 lakh to INR 12 lakh will be placed in the LMIG category. LIG homes, with a carpet area ranging from 30 to 45 square metres, will cost INR 14 lakh, whereas LMIG homes, with an area of 45 to 60 square metres, will be priced at INR 25 lakh. The state has also increased the consumer subsidy from INR 1.5 lakh to INR 2 lakh.
Furthermore, the government will encourage the development of row housing in hill areas. It will also provide roads for last-mile connectivity, and private developers involved in row housing will be offered subsidies. In a move aimed at ensuring compliance with energy consumption norms, the Cabinet also addressed a 50% subsidy for consumers using less than 100 units of electricity in the plains and 200 units in the hills. District magistrates have been authorised to form teams to monitor whether consumers are violating the eligibility criteria for the subsidy. The energy secretary, R Meenakshi Sundaram, stated that those found violating the rules will be required to repay an amount double the subsidy they had availed.
The state will also proceed with the purchase of 100 new BS6 buses by the Uttarakhand Transport Corporation, with the project estimated to cost INR 34 crore. The principal amount for the buses will be provided by the department, while the interest will be covered by the state government. Additionally, the Cabinet has approved the establishment of a Transgender Welfare Board (TWB) to safeguard the rights of transgender individuals. Presently, 19 states and Union Territories have established similar boards. The Cabinet also approved a proposal to introduce one-time user charges for medical colleges.
Another key decision by the Cabinet allows students who have undergone sex-change operations to update their academic records with their new name and gender. This change aligns with central laws, and the Cabinet has authorised it. Moreover, a proposal from the higher education department to facilitate educational tours for students and teachers was also approved. Lastly, the annual dress allowance for government drivers in various departments has been increased from INR 2,400 to INR 3,000.
The Uttarakhand Cabinet's decisions earlier this week are a significant step towards improving housing accessibility, with increased income limits and subsidies for EWS, LIG, and LMIG groups. The policy also promotes row housing in hill areas, ensuring better infrastructure for last-mile connectivity. Measures to enhance transparency in electricity subsidies, as well as initiatives for transgender rights and academic inclusivity, showcase the government's commitment to social welfare. Additionally, the new investments in public transport and allowances for government employees reflect a broader focus on development and equity in the state.
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