Indira Awaas Yojana: Progress, Challenges and Recommendations from Naxalbari Villages of Darjeeling District

This study evaluates the impact of the Indira AwasYojana (IAY) a flagship housing scheme aimed at improving the socio-economic conditions and housing status of Below Poverty Line (BPL) families in rural India. Conducted in eight villages—Atal Tea Estate, Merry View Tea Estate, BarajharuJote, Sebdulla Jote, Bijaynagar Tea Estate, Mangal Singh Jote, Birsing, and Pramod Colony situated in the Naxalbari block of Darjeeling district, this descriptive research involved a sample size of 100 beneficiaries. Data collection encompassed structured surveys focusing on pre- and post-IAY housing conditions, grant disbursement, personal expenditures, and satisfaction levels. Findings reveal that while IAY has significantly contributed to improved housing with many beneficiaries transitioning to semi-pucca or pucca houses, challenges persist in terms of financial adequacy, construction quality, and access to basic amenities such as sanitation and durable materials. The majority of beneficiaries who are predominantly women from Scheduled Tribes and Scheduled Castes live in unitary families with modest landholdings and limited incomes. Despite some progress, gaps remain in fulfilling the objectives of the programme particularly in the areas of sanitation, durable construction, and grant sufficiency. Suggestions include increasing grant amounts, streamlining processes, and ensuring the provision of quality construction materials to enhance the effectiveness and better address the housing needs of marginalized rural households. This study provides valuable insights into the socio-economic dynamics and challenges faced by IAY beneficiaries offering actionable recommendations for improving the implementation and impact of IAY.