Lucknow. Taking forward the Prime Minister resolve to provide permanent housing for all, the Uttar Pradesh government has taken another historic step for the urban poor. At a state-level programme held at Indira Gandhi Pratishthan in Lucknow, the first installment of financial assistance under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana–Urban 2.0 was transferred directly into the bank accounts of nearly two lakh beneficiaries. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath released a total amount of ₹2094 crore to 2.09 lakh beneficiaries through a single click.
Urban Development and Energy Minister A.K. Sharma was specially present at the event, while Union Minister for Housing and Urban Affairs and Energy, Manohar Lal Khattar, joined the programme virtually.
Uttar Pradesh Moving from Clean India to Developed India: A.K. Sharma
Addressing the gathering, Minister A.K. Sharma said that urban areas play a crucial role in the journey from a Clean India to a Developed India. Cities reflect the face of the state, society, and economy, and therefore urban governance in Uttar Pradesh is being strengthened. He said that under the guidance of the Prime Minister and leadership of the Chief Minister, Uttar Pradesh is progressing rapidly towards the vision of a new India.
Historic Leap in Swachh Survekshan, Garbage Dumps Turn into Symbols of Development
Sharma stated that Uttar Pradesh has achieved a historic milestone in Swachh Survekshan 2024–25. For the first time, Lucknow has secured a place among the top three cleanest large cities in the country. Lucknow and Agra featured in the top ten, while seven cities from the state were included in the top 25 cleanest cities.
He added that decades-old garbage dumps in areas like Ghaila and Shivri in Lucknow have been cleared and transformed into development projects such as UP Darshan Park. The construction of Shivalik Park in Prayagraj is another example of this transformation. Ghaziabad securing the 50th position in the Bloomberg Global Cities list is also evidence of the state’s urban progress.
Permanent Housing Is the Top Priority of the Double-Engine Government
Minister A.K. Sharma said that providing permanent housing to every citizen is the top priority of the Prime Minister and the double-engine government. Under Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana–Urban 1.0, more than 1.7 million houses have been provided to the urban poor in Uttar Pradesh—the highest in the country. Under the new phase 2.0, the transfer of ₹2094 crore in a single programme is the largest such example in the country so far.
He expressed gratitude to the Prime Minister for this initiative, congratulated all beneficiaries, and thanked the public representatives and citizens who joined the programme from across the state.
