Urban development in the hills and plains of West Bengal has received a major push under the central government’s flagship programmes; the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana – Urban (PMAY-U) and the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Urban Livelihood Mission (DAY-NULM). According to Member of Parliament Raju Bista, both Darjeeling and Kalimpong districts have seen significant improvements in housing and livelihood support for urban poor and marginalised communities over the past few years. Under the PMAY-U scheme, which aims to provide secure and affordable housing to urban families, Darjeeling district has had a total of 16,121 houses sanctioned since 2019. Out of these, 14,622 houses are currently under construction while 6,769 have already been completed. In Kalimpong district, 2,766 houses have been sanctioned, 2,302 are under construction and 1,614 have been completed. These numbers show that many families in the region are now on the path to having a proper roof over their heads; something that was a distant dream for many before.
Alongside housing, the DAY-NULM scheme is also making a strong impact. This programme is focused on improving urban livelihoods, especially for women and vulnerable groups. In Darjeeling district, 271 Self Help Groups (SHGs) have been formed, and 360 micro-enterprises have received support to grow their businesses. In addition, 1,328 loans have been approved to help people become self-reliant. Certificates and ID cards have also been issued to 409 street vendors helping them get recognised and gain access to government support. Kalimpong district has also seen steady progress. A total of 222 SHGs have been formed here, and 161 of them have received revolving funds to strengthen their activities. Support has also been extended to 13 micro-enterprises, and 83 street vendors have received certificates and identification, offering them better access to schemes and markets. MP Raju Bista said that these developments clearly reflect the Central Government’s serious and continued focus on improving the lives of ordinary citizens. He said the goal is not only to provide homes but also to offer people the tools to earn and live with dignity. The support being extended to SHGs, small businesses, and street vendors will help people stand on their own feet and contribute to the local economy.
He urged the West Bengal Government, the Gorkhaland Territorial Administration (GTA) and municipal bodies to ensure that these schemes are implemented in a timely and transparent manner. “It is important that the funds meant for the public are used honestly, without delay or diversion,” Bista said. He added that the success of these schemes depends on efficient local implementation. On behalf of the people of Darjeeling and Kalimpong, Bista expressed deep gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Housing and Urban Affairs Minister Manohar Lal Khattar for their focus on inclusive development. “Their leadership has brought hope to thousands of families. These schemes are helping our region move forward, giving people a fair chance at a better future,” he said.