The Government of Telangana has issued significant orders regarding the implementation of the INDIRAMMA INDLU Scheme, designed to support the construction of houses for the underprivileged across the state. With a strategic focus on inclusive development, this initiative aims to involve local communities in the governance and oversight of the scheme. The scheme promises financial assistance of Rs. 5,00,000 per family for the construction of 4,50,000 new homes during its first phase. This initiative underscores the government’s commitment to addressing housing needs for the houseless poor, promoting transparency, and ensuring that benefits reach the intended recipients.
Formation of INDIRAMMA Committees for Community Involvement
In line with its objective of decentralizing the implementation, the Telangana government has mandated the formation of INDIRAMMA Committees at both the Gram Panchayat and Municipal Ward levels. These committees will include representatives from the local community and government officials to ensure smooth operations.
Committee Composition at Gram Panchayat Level:
The Gram Panchayat level committee is structured to include:
- Chairman: The Sarpanch or a designated Gram Panchayat Special Officer
- Members: Two women from Self-Help Groups (SHGs), three local residents (with at least one person from Backward Classes (BC) and one from Scheduled Caste (SC) or Scheduled Tribe (ST)), and
- Convener: The Panchayat Secretary.
Committee Composition at Municipal Ward Level:
At the Municipal Ward level, the committee includes:
- Chairman: The Ward Councillor or Corporator
- Members: Two women from SHGs, three local residents (with similar representation from BC, SC/ST categories), and
- Convener: The Ward Officer.
Key Responsibilities of INDIRAMMA Committees
The INDIRAMMA Committees play a crucial role in ensuring the effective and transparent execution of the scheme. Their primary responsibilities include:
- Raising Awareness: The committees will engage in continuous awareness-building efforts within their respective communities, ensuring that eligible families are informed about the benefits of the scheme and how to apply.
- Beneficiary Support: They will offer hands-on assistance to beneficiaries, helping them with the construction of their homes and guiding them through the procedural steps involved.
- Social Audit: A vital function of these committees is to act as watchdogs for social accountability. They are responsible for conducting social audits to ensure the rightful distribution of benefits, reporting any wrongful exclusions or inclusions of families.
- Addressing Housing Issues: The committees will serve as a channel for reporting any issues related to housing, such as discrepancies in eligibility or construction delays, to the Mandal Parishad Development Officer (MPDO) or the Municipal Commissioner.
Role of District Collectors and Local Authorities
To streamline the formation and functioning of these committees, the Telangana Housing Corporation Limited has directed District Collectors to oversee the nomination process. Local authorities, including MPDOs and Municipal Commissioners, are responsible for submitting committee member nominations to the District Collector, who will officially appoint the members in coordination with the District In-Charge Minister.
Moreover, the District Collectors are tasked with ensuring that the committees are formed by October 12, 2024, followed by organizing orientation programs for all committee members. These orientation sessions are crucial for equipping the members with the necessary knowledge and tools to effectively execute their duties under the INDIRAMMA INDLU Scheme.
Conclusion
The INDIRAMMA INDLU Scheme is a landmark initiative by the Government of Telangana aimed at addressing the housing needs of the state’s poor. By forming localized INDIRAMMA Committees, the government ensures that the community plays an active role in both the implementation and oversight of the scheme. This community-driven approach enhances transparency, social accountability, and efficiency in delivering housing benefits to those in need. With Rs. 5,00,000 allotted per household and 4,50,000 houses planned in the first phase, this scheme is poised to significantly improve the living standards of many families across Telangana.
