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In an ambitious stride towards social equity and economic empowerment, the Kerala government has rolled out the LIFE Mission 2024—an affordable housing initiative aimed at providing homes to the state’s landless and homeless populations.
This comprehensive scheme, standing for Livelihood Inclusion and Financial Empowerment, envisions the construction of over 500,000 houses, marking a significant milestone in Kerala’s journey towards inclusive growth.
What is LIFE Mission Kerala?
The LIFE Mission Kerala is a visionary program designed to address the pressing housing needs of marginalized communities within the state. Spearheaded by the Kerala State Housing Board, established on March 5, 1971, the initiative seeks to create a structured and organized housing ecosystem under the Kerala State Housing Board Act of 1971.
By focusing on landless and homeless individuals, the scheme aims to offer not just shelter but also avenues for sustainable livelihoods and social integration.
Core Objectives of the LIFE Mission
The LIFE Mission Kerala targets four pivotal areas to ensure holistic development:
1. Affordable Housing:
Construction of cost-effective homes to make housing accessible to all eligible beneficiaries.
2. Public Infrastructure Development:
Enhancing the quality of living through improved infrastructure within housing complexes.
3. Agriculture Support:
Providing resources and support to beneficiaries engaged in agricultural activities, ensuring their economic stability.
4. Natural Resource Management:
Promoting sustainable practices to manage and conserve natural resources effectively.
With an estimated budget of over ₹4,000 crore, the funding for this mission is sourced from state agencies, local governments, the Union government, and various social sector organizations.
Alignment with National Housing Initiatives
The LIFE Mission Kerala aligns with the Union Government’s Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) by modifying its framework to better suit the state’s unique socio-economic landscape.
The goal is to construct 500 square feet houses at a cost of ₹4 lakhs each, making homeownership attainable for nearly 430,000 homeless individuals over the next five years.
This initiative not only provides housing but also integrates essential social services such as primary healthcare, skill development programs, and financial services within the housing complexes.
Who Benefits from the LIFE Mission Kerala?
The scheme is tailored to support:
- Homeless Individuals: Those without any permanent residence.
- Incomplete Housing Beneficiaries: Individuals who have received partial aid from other schemes but have yet to complete their housing projects.
- Temporary Shelter Residents: People residing in temporary government-run shelters, especially in coastal and plantation areas.
Priority is accorded to marginalized communities, including Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, economically weaker sections (EWS), fishermen, and those affected by natural calamities.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for a house under the LIFE Mission, applicants must:
- Be a resident of Kerala.
- Be landless, as indicated by their ration card.
- Have an annual income not exceeding ₹3 lakhs.
- Not be employed by the government.
- Possess a state-issued ration card.
Application Process: Step-by-Step Guide
Applying for the LIFE Mission Kerala housing scheme is straightforward and can be completed online. Here’s how:
1. Register Online:
- Visit the LIFE Mission Kerala website.
- Click on “New Registration” and enter your mobile number and name to receive an OTP.
- Verify the OTP and create a secure password to complete the registration.
2. Log In:
- Access your account using your mobile number and password.
3. Check Eligibility:
- Use the eligibility checker on the right side of the website.
- Select the appropriate forms from the left side and proceed.
4. Provide Details:
- Enter your 10-digit ration card number.
- Fill in personal information, including address, Aadhaar number, caste, and community details.
- Provide bank account information and details about any land or buildings you own.
5. Upload Documents:
- Prepare and upload necessary documents such as:
- Ration card
- Caste certificate
- Aadhaar card
- Income certificate
- Medical certificate (for differently-abled applicants)
6. Submit Application:
- Review all entered information and click on “Submit Application.”
Selection Process
Once applications are submitted, officials cross-reference them with the Union Government’s socio-economic caste survey (2011). Field officers conduct on-site verifications to authenticate the information provided. Successful applicants are listed as beneficiaries, and those not selected have the option to appeal at the Panchayat level.
Progress and Achievements
As of January 2024, the LIFE Mission Kerala has made significant strides:
- Housing Units Completed: Over 367,867 houses across various districts, including major cities like Thiruvananthapuram, Kochi, and Kozhikode.
- Funding: The project has received substantial financial backing, with ₹375 crore from HUDCO in July 2019 and an additional ₹350 crore allocated by the state government in August 2024.
- Ongoing Construction: More than 150,000 homes are currently under construction, with numerous housing complexes completed to date.
Contact Information
For inquiries and assistance regarding the LIFE Mission Kerala Housing Scheme, you can reach out through the following channels:
- Helpline Number: 0471 2335524
- Email: lifemissionkerala@gmail.com
- Office Address: BSNL Bhawan, 3rd Floor, Uppalam Road, Statue, Thiruvananthapuram – 695001
Conclusion: A Step Towards Inclusive Growth
The LIFE Mission Kerala stands as a testament to the state’s dedication to fostering an inclusive society where every individual has access to safe and affordable housing. By addressing the needs of marginalized communities and integrating essential social services, the initiative not only provides shelter but also paves the way for economic empowerment and social integration.
As the scheme progresses, it promises to transform the lives of millions, fostering a more equitable and prosperous Kerala. Contact Credit Dharma today for expert guidance and personalized support to secure the best home loan tailored to your needs. Let us help you achieve your homeownership goals with ease and confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
The LIFE Mission Kerala 2024 (Livelihood Inclusion and Financial Empowerment Mission) is an affordable housing initiative by the Kerala government. It aims to construct over 500,000 houses for landless and homeless individuals, integrating social services to enhance beneficiaries’ quality of life and promote sustainable livelihoods.
Eligible applicants must be Kerala residents, landless as per their ration card, with an annual income below ₹3 lakh. Government employees cannot apply. Priority is given to Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, economically weaker sections, fishermen, and those from flood-affected or plantation areas.
Applications are cross-referenced with the Union Government’s socio-economic caste survey (2011). Field officers conduct on-site verifications to confirm details. Successful applicants are listed as beneficiaries on the official website. Unlisted applicants can appeal at the Panchayat level for reconsideration.
Benefits include affordable 500 sq. ft houses costing ₹4 lakhs each, integration of social services like health care and skill development, livelihood support, improved public infrastructure, and assistance in agriculture and natural resource management, ensuring comprehensive support for beneficiaries’ well-being.
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