Rural housing development under pradhan mantri awas yojana: the study of chhatni village in purulia District, West Bengal

Housing is a fundamental human necessity, yet a significant portion of India's population continues to live in inadequate conditions. To combat this issue, the Government of India launched the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) with the goal of providing permanent housing equipped with essential amenities to homeless families and those residing in substandard or dilapidated dwellings. This study examines the implementation and impact of PMAY in Chhatni village, Purulia district, West Bengal, a region predominantly inhabited by the Santhal community. Using a combination of observations, interviews, and case studies, the research assesses the scheme's effectiveness in improving housing conditions. The findings highlight both the potential of PMAY in transforming rural housing and the challenges related to implementation, transparency, and community involvement. Addressing these concerns through policy refinement and enhanced beneficiary participation is crucial for the program's long-term success. Future research should focus on assessing the scheme’s sustained impact on rural livelihoods and exploring strategies for inclusive housing development.