Daijiworld Media Network- Panaji

Panaji, Jul 29: In a significant move aimed at addressing homelessness in the state, the Goa government has announced plans to introduce a dedicated housing scheme for the homeless, integrated with the Central Government’s Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY).

Chief Minister Dr Pramod Sawant, while responding to a calling attention motion in the State Assembly on Monday, stated that the new initiative will focus on constructing one-bedroom kitchen homes at minimal cost through the Goa Housing Board, specifically for those without any shelter.

“The state will not distribute funds to the beneficiaries but will directly construct the houses and hand them over,” the CM said. He further revealed that two government-owned land parcels have already been identified in Pernem, and the land acquisition process has commenced.

The scheme is set to combine central and state resources to ensure a more effective and coordinated approach to housing for the underprivileged.

The motion was moved by BJP MLA Nilesh Cabral, who urged the government to take proactive measures to support the rural homeless, recommending a policy that unifies all existing housing-related schemes. He emphasized that the government must take responsibility for building homes instead of offering financial assistance.

Joining the discussion, Quepem MLA Altone D’Costa highlighted that at least 25 families in his constituency continue to live without proper housing. Meanwhile, Leader of Opposition Yuri Alemao stressed the need for a detailed survey to identify genuine homeless families. He also raised concern over families living for generations without land ownership documents.

The government is expected to draft the new scheme in the coming months, with the aim of providing dignified shelter to every Goan without a roof over their head.