For many years, Mamta, a resident of Barbata village in the Kheri district near the Indo-Nepal border, lived in a small makeshift hut made of mud. Her home was located in the dense forests surrounding the village, making life challenging. Mamta belongs to the Tharu tribe, a community that has long inhabited the region but faced significant hardships. During the monsoon, their struggles worsened as rainwater leaked through the flimsy mud roof, soaking their homes and dreams.
A Ray of Hope: The Impact of PMAY
Mamta, a beneficiary of the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY), shared her joy of transformation. “We never thought anyone would care about us. I was shelterless. Today, I live in my own house with my family, without any worries. My life has completely transformed,” she said.
She proudly explained how the scheme changed her life: “Now, we have a proper house. The roof doesn’t leak in the rain anymore. We live peacefully, and I no longer worry for my children’s safety. This house is more than just four walls and a roof; it symbolizes a future where my family can dream, grow, and thrive without constant fear of losing shelter.”
PMAY’s Widespread Impact
Mamta’s story is not unique. Across Uttar Pradesh, over 56 lakh houses have been constructed under the Yogi government’s leadership, marking hope and progress in the lives of the underprivileged. In Barbata village, inhabited by the Tharu tribe, life has always been difficult due to the dense forests and remote location, which made it hard for the government to reach them with basic facilities. However, the Yogi government’s commitment to uplift the underprivileged has transformed this village.
A government spokesperson highlighted the broader impact of the scheme: “PMAY has been a game-changer in the lives of over 56 lakh poor and homeless individuals who now have the security of owning a home. The majority of these houses have been allocated to women, providing them with empowerment and independence. By giving women keys to their own homes, the scheme not only ensures their safety but also strengthens their role in society.”
Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs):
- What is the main benefit Mamta gained from the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY)?
- A) Employment opportunities
- B) A proper house without a leaking roof
- C) Access to education for her children
- D) Access to healthcare services
Answer: B) A proper house without a leaking roof
- Where is Barbata village located?
- A) Near the Ganges River
- B) In central India
- C) Near the Indo-Nepal border in Uttar Pradesh
- D) In Rajasthan
Answer: C) Near the Indo-Nepal border in Uttar Pradesh
- Which tribe does Mamta belong to?
- A) Gond
- B) Tharu
- C) Bhil
- D) Santhal
Answer: B) Tharu
- How many houses have been constructed under the Yogi government’s PMAY initiative?
- A) 10 lakh
- B) 56 lakh
- C) 100 lakh
- D) 25 lakh
Answer: B) 56 lakh
- What is one of the key focuses of the PMAY scheme as highlighted by the government spokesperson?
- A) Providing employment to men
- B) Enhancing healthcare facilities
- C) Allocating homes to women for empowerment
- D) Improving agricultural practices
Answer: C) Allocating homes to women for empowerment