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In the bamboo-filled landscapes of Tripura, lush greenery whispers stories of tradition and resilience. Amidst the serene landscapes lives Shri Nikesh Marak, a humble villager from Jamircherra VC in the Manu RD Block. For years, his family sought solace in a fragile kutcha house—its walls made of mud, its roof of untreated bamboo, both struggling against the elements. Every monsoon brought a new wave of uncertainty, with rain seeping through cracks and winds threatening the very roof above their heads.

But today, thanks to Pradhan Mantri Awaas Yojana- Gramin (PMAY-G), Marak’s life tells a different tale—a story of transformation, resilience, and hope.

Dhalai District, Tripura

With the support of the Block Administration under the PMAY-G initiative, Shri Marak transitioned to a pucca house built with Stabilized Mud Block (SMB) technology and treated bamboo roofing. The new home offers him and his family safety, comfort, and disaster resilience, while also being a testament to eco-friendly practices in rural housing. With a well-constructed pucca house, Marak now feels secure, and his home has transformed his life.

Marak’s story is not an isolated one. Across Tripura, a quiet revolution is underway, changing the lives of countless families like his. In Satchand RD block of Tripura, tradition meets innovation with methods like SMB technology. This technique involves crafting mud blocks by compacting a mix of locally sourced soil with small amounts of cement or lime. These blocks eliminate the need for fired bricks, substantially reducing construction costs and environmental impact. The model also integrates bamboo roofs treated for durability, ensuring a lifespan of up to 75 years. This approach not only guarantees longevity but also leverages locally available resources, aligning with sustainable development goals.

At the heart of this initiative are Local Self-Help Groups (SHGs), comprised predominantly of rural women. These groups have been instrumental in producing SMBs, a task that has not only bolstered their incomes but also honed their skills and strengthened their communities. This symbiosis of housing and livelihoods encapsulates the inclusive spirit of the initiative, where every home built reflects the combined efforts of the community.

All of these changes were possible because of Pradhan Mantri Awaas Yojana-Gramin (PMAY-G) that has emerged as a beacon of hope for rural communities across India, especially in states like Tripura, where innovative approaches are redefining rural housing. This scheme launched on 20^th November 2016, provides housing for the poorest segments of society. With over 2.67 crore houses completed, PMAY-G exemplifies the transformative power of sustainable policies and community engagement. In the beautiful scenery of Tripura, the program has set a benchmark by integrating sustainability, affordability, and inclusivity in its housing initiatives. Such efforts are part of a broader vision under PMAY-G, a scheme that has reshaped rural housing in Tripura and beyond. Over 3.5 lakh homes have been constructed across the state, offering not just shelter but a foundation for better lives.

PMAY-G in Tripura stands as a testament to what is possible when innovation meets inclusivity. By leveraging local resources, empowering communities, and adopting sustainable technologies, the program has turned the dream of affordable, disaster-resilient housing into reality. For families like Marak’s, these homes are more than just walls and roofs—they are a promise of safety, a cradle of aspirations, and a place to dream without fear. And for Tripura, this housing revolution is a step towards a future where every family has not just a house, but a home.

References

https://pmayg.nic.in/netiay/PBIDashboard/PMAYGDashboard.aspx

https://static.pib.gov.in/WriteReadData/specificdocs/documents/2024/nov/doc20241119437801.pdf

PMAY Success stories

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Santosh Kumar/ Sarla Meena/ Madiha Iqbal

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