Under the revised rule, 10% of total sand stock at sand ghats must now be reserved and provided free of cost for beneficiaries under housing schemes like Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana Urban and economically weaker sections.

What Has Changed?

Earlier Rule:

• 10% of extracted sand had to be provided for housing schemes

New Rule:

• 10% of total available sand stock at the site must be reserved

This is a major shift, because total stock is usually much higher than just extracted quantities—meaning more sand will now be available for housing projects.

Why This Matters for Housing

1. Direct Boost to Affordable Housing

Schemes like Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana Urban depend heavily on construction materials. By ensuring free sand supply:

• Construction costs will reduce
• More homes can be built within budget

2. Solves Material Shortage Issues

In many districts, especially high-demand areas, beneficiaries were struggling to get sand. This change ensures:

• Better availability
• Reduced delays in construction

3. Focus on Economically Weaker Sections

The policy directly targets:

• Low-income families
• Housing scheme beneficiaries
  ensuring they are not priced out due to rising material costs.

What Does a Common Citizen Gain?

Lower Construction Cost

Sand is a major cost component. Free supply means:

• Lower overall cost of building a home
• Reduced financial burden on beneficiaries

Faster Home Completion

With better material availability:

• Construction timelines improve
• Beneficiaries can move into homes sooner

Better Scheme Implementation

Government housing schemes will now see:

• Faster execution
• Higher completion rates

Impact on Real Estate & Construction Sector

1. Stabilization of Sand Prices

With a portion reserved for public welfare, speculative pricing may reduce.

2. Improved Transparency in Auctions

The rule mandates that this condition must be clearly mentioned in e-auctions, ensuring accountability from contractors.

3. Push for Affordable Housing Ecosystem

This policy strengthens the entire affordable housing pipeline—from land to materials to delivery.

Key Condition for Contractors

• Contractors (sand auction winners) must provide this 10% sand free of cost
• No compensation will be given by the government
• This condition will be mandatory and clearly stated in auction terms

The Bigger Picture

This move highlights a strategic shift by the Maharashtra government—not just funding housing, but securing raw materials needed to build it.

Combined with funding schemes and redevelopment policies, this step could:

• Accelerate “Housing for All” goals
• Improve project viability
• Benefit thousands of homebuyers across the state

Also Read: Maharashtra Sanctions ₹411 Crore for PMAY Affordable Housing Projects Across Cities

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As per the Government Resolution dated May 20, 2026, a total of ₹220.38 crore has been sanctioned for the general category beneficiaries (other than SC/ST component) under the scheme.

Fund Breakup

• Central Share: ₹132.23 crore
• State Share: ₹88.15 crore
• Total Allocation: ₹220.38 crore

This fund will be disbursed through the SNA-SPARSH system, ensuring transparency and efficient tracking of fund utilization.

Where Will This Money Go?

The funds are aimed at accelerating Affordable Housing in Partnership (AHP) projects across Maharashtra. These projects are typically executed with developers, government agencies, and local bodies working together.

The implementing authority for this scheme in the state is Maharashtra Housing and Area Development Authority, which will oversee fund utilization and project execution.

Why This Matters for Maharashtra

1. Boost to Affordable Housing Supply

This funding will directly support the construction of EWS and LIG housing units, helping reduce the housing shortage in urban areas.

2. Faster Project Completion

With fresh funds being released, stalled or slow-moving housing projects can now pick up pace.

3. Stronger Public-Private Partnership

The AHP model encourages collaboration between government bodies and private developers, improving efficiency and delivery timelines.

What Does a Common Citizen Gain?

Access to Affordable Homes

Urban families struggling with high real estate prices will get access to subsidized, affordable housing units.

Reduced Financial Burden

Government support lowers the cost of housing, making homeownership more achievable for middle- and lower-income groups.

Better Living Conditions

Beneficiaries can expect:

• Proper infrastructure
• Legal and planned housing
• Improved quality of life compared to informal or old housing setups

The Bigger Impact on Real Estate

This move is expected to:

• Increase affordable housing inventory in urban Maharashtra
• Strengthen confidence among developers in government-backed housing schemes
• Support the broader vision of “Housing for All”

It also signals that the government is actively addressing urban housing challenges through structured funding and policy support.

Also Read: “Budget FY27: Real Estate Sector Seeks Affordable Housing Boost, Rental Incentives and Tax Relief

The post Maharashtra Clears ₹220 Cr for Affordable Housing Under PMAY (Urban) appeared first on Square Feat India.

The decision was issued through a Government Resolution dated March 12, 2026, by the state’s Housing Department. The funds will be disbursed through the SNA-SPARSH digital platform, which is used for the transfer of funds under the PMAY-Urban scheme.

Breakdown of Central and State Funding

The total sanctioned amount of ₹8.91 crore includes contributions from both the central and state governments:

• ₹5.34 crore – Central Government share
• ₹3.56 crore – Maharashtra State share

The funding forms part of the larger mother sanction of ₹269.65 crore approved by the Union Government for projects under the AHP component (SLS Code – MH 676) of the PMAY-Urban programme.

Implementation Through MHADA

The projects will be implemented under the supervision of the Maharashtra Housing and Area Development Authority, which has been designated as the state-level nodal agency for the scheme.

The Drawing and Disbursing Officer (DDO) for the funds will be the Finance Controller of MHADA, ensuring that the funds are allocated to implementing agencies for the specified projects.

Authorities have also directed all implementing agencies to complete SLS component mapping and the e-signature process on the SNAP portal before receiving funds under the scheme.

Affordable Housing Projects Across Multiple Cities

The funding will support several affordable housing projects across Maharashtra, including cities such as:

• Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar
• Nagpur
• Pimpri-Chinchwad
• Pune
• Kolhapur
• Chandrapur
• Solapur

These projects largely focus on Economically Weaker Section (EWS) housing units, with some developments also including Lower Income Group (LIG) units.

Major Housing Projects Supported

Among the major projects included in the funding list are:

• 3,288 EWS housing units at Sundarwadi in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar
• 1,976 EWS units at Tisgaon in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar
• 4,680 EWS units at another site in Tisgaon
• 1,288 EWS housing units at Brohadewadi in the Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation area
• 1,442 EWS housing units at Charholi in Pimpri-Chinchwad
• 370 EWS housing units at Pimpri Waghire
• 568 EWS units at Akurdi in Pimpri-Chinchwad
• 264 EWS and 60 MIG units at Datala in Chandrapur
• 401 EWS housing units across locations in Nagpur
• 1,200 EWS and 1,200 LIG units at Dahitane in Solapur

Several projects are being implemented by municipal corporations such as Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation and Pune Municipal Corporation, while others are being executed by regional housing boards under MHADA.

Focus on Tribal Housing Component

The funding released in this phase specifically targets the Scheduled Tribe (ST) component of PMAY-Urban, ensuring that tribal beneficiaries receive support under affordable housing initiatives.

Officials have directed implementing agencies to ensure that the funds are used strictly for the purpose for which they have been sanctioned, following financial guidelines issued by the state Finance Department.

Strengthening Affordable Housing Supply

The Affordable Housing in Partnership (AHP) model encourages collaboration between government agencies, housing boards, and private developers to build housing for economically weaker sections.

With the latest funding release, the state government aims to accelerate construction of affordable homes across urban areas and improve access to housing for low-income families.

Also Read: Maharashtra Implements ‘SNA-SPARSH’ System for Faster Fund Transfers under PMAY (Urban) and PMAY 2.0

The post Maharashtra Approves ₹8.91 Crore PMAY-Urban Funds for Affordable Housing Projects Across Cities appeared first on Square Feat India.

The extension was announced by the Pune Housing and Area Development Board, MHADA’s regional arm, following widespread requests from citizens who encountered technical issues and delays in document verification.

Over 1.82 Lakh Applications Received So Far

MHADA has already received 1,82,781 online applications, of which 1,33,885 have been submitted along with the earnest money deposit (EMD).
Officials said the extension provides a final opportunity for applicants who were unable to complete the process due to verification challenges.

EMD payments can be made:

• Online: Until 11:59 p.m. on November 30
• RTGS/NEFT: Until the close of banking hours on December 1

The computerized draw will now take place on December 11, 2025, at 12:00 noon.

Why the Deadline Was Extended

According to officials, many applicants experienced technical issues during document uploads and verification, resulting in incomplete applications.
Additionally, several citizens requested more time to arrange documentation and complete payments.

Recognizing the heavy response and public demand, the Pune Board granted this one-time, final extension. MHADA noted that the revised schedule will be published on its official website, while all other conditions remain unchanged from earlier advertisements.

Breakdown of the 4,186 Flats Across Schemes

The Pune Board lottery includes housing units under four different schemes, catering to multiple income segments:

1⃣ MHADA Housing Scheme (First Come, First Served)

1,683 flats

2⃣ PMAY (Urban) – First Come, First Served

299 flats

3⃣ 15% Inclusive Housing Scheme (PMRDA Region)

864 flats

4⃣ 20% Inclusive Housing Scheme (PMC, PCMC & PMRDA Limits)

3,222 flats

These homes span Pune, Pimpri-Chinchwad, PMRDA, and the districts of Solapur, Kolhapur, and Sangli.

Also Read: MHADA Announces New Lottery Date for Mumbai

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The Maharashtra government has approved the implementation of the SNA-SPARSH (System of Integrated Quick Transfers) framework for effective execution of the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Urban) and PMAY (Urban) 2.0 schemes.

This move is aimed at ensuring faster, transparent, and real-time transfer of Central funds for housing projects through direct integration with the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) systems. The decision aligns with the Central Government’s push for a modernized, technology-driven fund management structure.

From SNA to SNA-SPARSH: A Shift Toward Real-Time Efficiency

The new system replaces the existing Single Nodal Agency (SNA) model with the SNA-SPARSH model, following the Government of India’s directive dated July 13, 2023.

Under this framework, Central and State cash management systems are integrated using three major digital platforms:

• Public Financial Management System (PFMS)
• State Integrated Financial Management Information System (IFMIS)
• RBI’s e-Kuber system

The unified setup allows for real-time, traceable, and quicker fund transfers for Centrally Sponsored Schemes (CSS) like PMAY, reducing administrative delays and leakages.

Dedicated RBI Accounts for Maharashtra’s PMAY and PMAY 2.0

As per the Government Resolution (GR) issued by the Housing Department, new independent drawing and disbursing accounts have been opened with the Reserve Bank of India for both PMAY (Urban) and PMAY 2.0.

These accounts will handle funds for various scheme components such as Affordable Housing in Partnership (AHP), Beneficiary-Led Construction (BLC), In-Situ Slum Redevelopment (ISSR), and Capacity Building, Social Audit, and IEC activities.

PMAY (Urban) — Managed by MHADA

• Nodal Agency: Maharashtra Housing & Area Development Authority (MHADA), Mumbai
• Finance Controller: Drawing & Disbursing Officer (DDO) No. 8101710009
• RBI Accounts: Six separate accounts created for PMAY (Urban) components
• Date of account activation: Between February and October 2025

PMAY (Urban) 2.0 — Managed by Housing Department PMU

• Nodal Agency: State-Level Project Management Unit (PMU), Housing Department, Mantralaya, Mumbai
• Under Secretary & Joint Chief Officer: DDO No. 8101710010
• RBI Accounts: Four accounts for PMAY 2.0 sub-components
• Date of account activation: September 12, 2025

The accounts were opened with consent from the Finance Department and the Accountant General of Maharashtra.

Objective: Faster, Accountable, and Transparent Fund Flow

By implementing SNA-SPARSH, Maharashtra joins a select group of states that have migrated to this next-generation financial management architecture. The key goals include:

• Real-time visibility of fund utilization across all project levels
• Elimination of idle funds and duplication
• Faster disbursement to beneficiaries and implementing agencies
• Stronger financial governance and audit trail

Officials stated that this will significantly enhance efficiency in executing housing projects under PMAY (Urban) and PMAY 2.0—particularly important as Maharashtra leads in urban housing demand and beneficiary-linked construction projects.

Also Read: Relief For MHADA Redevelopment And PMAY Projects

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Mumbai, November 4, 2025:
In a major boost to affordable housing for unorganised workers, the Maharashtra Government has approved a ₹16.93 crore waiver on premium and other related charges for a 30,000-unit housing project under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Urban) at Kumbhari village, South Solapur taluka.

The Cabinet has also sanctioned the waiver of ₹8.05 lakh in accumulated non-agricultural (NA) taxes and development fees owed by various housing societies associated with the Rayner Federation, paving the way for expedited housing construction for low-income families in the district.

Massive PMAY Project to House 30,000 Workers

The Solapur housing project — one of the largest under PMAY (Urban) for unorganised sector workers in Maharashtra — will be developed over 21 hectares of land spread across survey numbers 74, 75, 76/1, 77, 262/2, 262/4, 639/2, and 639/3 in Kumbhari.

The project aims to provide affordable, permanent housing for informal sector workers, including daily wage earners and labourers, who have long faced housing insecurity.

Premium Waived to Accelerate Construction

The waiver of the ₹16.93 crore unearned income (nazrana) and non-agricultural conversion premium was granted under Sections 40 and 117(6) of the Maharashtra Land Revenue Code, 1966, following Cabinet approval on November 4, 2025.

According to the order, the land transfer premium will be charged at a nominal rate of ₹1 per sq. m., in line with the Revenue and Forest Department’s 2016 policy (GR dated September 19, 2016) for social housing and public welfare projects.

Relief on Pending NA Taxes for Housing Societies

In addition to the major premium waiver, the government has written off ₹8,05,224 in pending non-agricultural tax arrears for six cooperative housing societies working under the Rayner Federation and associated builders.

This measure aims to reduce the financial burden on developer societies and expedite project completion.

Policy Context: Boost for Housing for Informal Workers

Officials said the move reflects the state’s continued focus on inclusive housing and aligns with the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Urban) goal of “Housing for All”. Solapur has been identified as a priority district due to its large population of informal workers.

The waiver is expected to accelerate construction, reduce project costs, and enable faster handover of homes to eligible beneficiaries — contributing to the state’s affordable housing targets for 2026.

Also Read: PM to handover largest PMAY Project comprising of 30k Homes

The post Maharashtra Waives ₹16.9 Crore Premium for PMAY Housing Project for Unorganised Workers in Solapur appeared first on Square Feat India.

The announcement was made by Deputy Chief Minister and Housing Minister Eknath Shinde at the MHADA Konkan Board computerized lottery draw held in Thane, where 5,354 tenements and 77 plots were allotted through a transparent digital process.

₹50 Lakh Crore Investment for 35 Lakh Homes

Maharashtra is targeting the construction of 35 lakh homes statewide in the next five years, fuelled by a ₹50 lakh crore investment pipeline through both public and private sector participation.

The state is also working towards the PM Awas Yojana (Urban) target of two crore homes, with an emphasis on housing for working women, senior citizens, and rental housing options to address urban housing demand.

Shinde highlighted that the Central Government’s GST reduction on housing has further lowered costs, offering relief to homebuyers and boosting construction momentum.

30 Lakh Homes in MMR by 2030

Under the MMR Growth Hub Plan, the government has set a goal of 30 lakh new homes in MMR by 2030, with MHADA directly or indirectly delivering about 8 lakh homes.

The massive response to the Konkan Board lottery — 1,58,424 applications for 5,354 homes — reflects rising public trust in MHADA’s transparent allotment systems, Shinde noted. He instructed MHADA to maintain quality standards and ensure projects are completed within stipulated timelines to meet this ambitious target.

Acceleration of Pending Redevelopment Projects

The government has directed MHADA, CIDCO, MMRDA, MIDC, and the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) to focus on completing pending slum rehabilitation and redevelopment projects. This includes several long-delayed schemes that are now being fast-tracked under the revised housing policy.

Key redevelopment projects expected to contribute around two lakh homes in the next five years include:

• BDD Chawls
• Sindhi refugee buildings at Sion Koliwada
• Kamathipura redevelopment
• Abhyudaya Nagar (Kalachowki)
• Motilal Nagar (Goregaon)
• Siddharth Nagar (Patrachawl)
• Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Nagar (Andheri)
• Bandra Reclamation
• Adarsh Nagar (Worli)
• Jogeshwari PMGP Poonam Nagar

These projects are expected to unlock large tracts of underutilized urban land, paving the way for affordable and mid-income housing.

Strong Track Record and Mill Worker Housing

MHADA Vice President and CEO Sanjeev Jaiswal highlighted that this was the fourth computerized lottery held by the Konkan Board in the last three years, allotting a total of 13,500 tenements during this period.

Across all regional boards — Pune, Nashik, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, and Nagpur — MHADA has allotted 41,500 tenements in the same timeframe.

Additionally, nearly 20,000 mill workers have already been allotted homes, and eligibility for around one lakh mill workers and their heirs has been finalized to speed up future allotments.

Also Read: RBI Monetary Policy – Can the Housing Market Absorb Another Hike?

The post 🏡 35 Lakh Homes, ₹50 Lakh Crore Investment: Maharashtra Unveils Massive Housing Push for MMR appeared first on Square Feat India.

The biggest PMAY (Urban) scheme comprising of 30,000 homes for workers from unorganised sector, Beedi Workers, Textile workers, Ragpickers and Construction workers are is being constructed by MHADA in Solapur.

Of this 15,024 homes will be handed over by Narendra Modi in coming months.

Housing Secretary, Valsa Nair Singh, said, “The biggest economically weaker section housing scheme is now in the final stages of being built at a place called Ray Nagar, in Solapur. PM is coming next month to inaugurate it. We’ve 15000 houses on the ground, and another 15,000 of which have works has started. Every house is 300 sq ft.”

These 30,000 units are spread over almost 100 acres. Each unit costing Rs 6 lakh.

There are in total 7 societies comprising of 55,814 members. The homes are located in Ray Nagar Housing Co-operative Societies, located in Kumbhari Village, in South Solapur.

Of these 30,000 homes, 16,100 homes are for unorganised workers, 5,772 homes are for beedi workers, 3,694 homes are for Textile workers, 849 homes for Construction workers and ragpickers, and 3,586 homes for Garment workers.

Also Read: 3515 winners of MHADA Lottery received Provisional Offer Letter

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