On May 17, 2025, a significant milestone was achieved in Assam’s rural development journey. Union Minister for Agriculture, Farmers Welfare, and Rural Development, Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan, participated in a virtual Grihapravesh ceremony in Guwahati, marking the completion of 55,000 houses under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana – Gramin (PMAY-G). This event underscores the government’s commitment to providing affordable housing and enhancing rural infrastructure across India.
Sanctioning of 3.76 Lakh More Houses
New Opportunities for Rural Families
During the ceremony, Shri Chouhan announced the sanctioning of an additional 3.76 lakh houses under PMAY-G for Assam in the current financial year. This move is set to benefit thousands of underprivileged families by providing them with pucca houses, ensuring safety, dignity, and a better quality of life. The minister highlighted that Assam has already achieved a remarkable feat by completing 20 lakh houses under this scheme, a testament to the state’s dedication to rural upliftment.
Empowering Women Through Lakhimi Mistri Initiative
A Landmark Step for Gender Equality
In a groundbreaking initiative, Shri Chouhan launched the Lakhimi Mistri – Women Mason Initiative under PMAY-G. This program aims to train rural women in masonry skills, enabling them to secure employment opportunities in the construction sector. To mark the launch, safety kits were distributed to five women trainees, symbolizing the government’s focus on women empowerment and economic independence.
Penal Code section 3125.2| Initiative | Objective | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Lakhimi Mistri | Train women in masonry skills | Enhance employment and empower rural women |
Strengthening Rural Infrastructure
Launch of 21 Knowledge Centres
Adding to the day’s achievements, Shri Chouhan virtually inaugurated 21 Knowledge Centres across Assam, established under the Rural Infrastructure Development Fund (RIDF). These centres are designed to empower farmers by providing access to agricultural resources, timely information, and modern techniques, thereby strengthening the rural economy.
| Facility | Purpose | Beneficiaries |
|---|---|---|
| Knowledge Centres | Provide agricultural resources and information | Rural farmers and communities |
Leadership and Collaboration
Applauding Assam’s Efforts
Shri Chouhan praised the Assam government, particularly Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma, for their exemplary leadership in implementing PMAY-G and other rural development programs. The Chief Minister expressed gratitude to the Union Government and reaffirmed Assam’s commitment to sustainable growth in agriculture and rural livelihoods. Other dignitaries present included Shri Atul Bora, Agriculture Minister, Assam, and Shri Ranjeet Kumar Dass, Panchayat & Rural Development Minister, Assam.
Key Highlights of the Event
- Virtual Grihapravesh of 55,000 PMAY-G houses on May 17, 2025.
- Sanctioning of 3.76 lakh additional houses under PMAY-G.
- Launch of Lakhimi Mistri Initiative to empower rural women.
- Inauguration of 21 Knowledge Centres under RIDF.
- Assam’s milestone of completing 20 lakh houses under PMAY-G.