Launched in 1981, the “Distribution of Free House Sites to Scheduled Caste/Other Economically Backward Classes” scheme is an initiative by the Adi Dravidar Welfare Department, Government of Puducherry. This program aims to provide homeless Scheduled Caste (SC) and Other Economically Backward Class (OEBC) individuals with free housing sites, enabling them to construct their own houses. So far, over 11,000 beneficiaries have availed of this scheme.
Benefits of the Scheme
- Free Housing Sites: Distribution of land to eligible Scheduled Caste and Economically Backward Class individuals.
- Empowerment: Encourages self-reliance by enabling beneficiaries to build houses within a specified timeframe.
Eligibility Criteria
- Nationality: The applicant must be a citizen of India.
- Residency: The applicant must be a native or permanent resident of Puducherry.
- Income Limit: Annual family income should not exceed ₹24,000.
- Age: The applicant must have attained 18 years of age.
- Housing Status:
- The applicant must be homeless.
- No family member of the applicant should own a house or housing site.
- Construction Intention: The applicant must have a genuine intent to construct a house within two years of receiving the land.
Application Process
Offline Process:
- Visit the Office:
- Applicants must visit the Adi Dravidar Welfare Department, Thattanchavady, Puducherry – 9, during office hours.
- Request Application Form:
- Obtain the prescribed application form from the designated staff.
- Fill Out the Form:
- Complete all mandatory fields, attach a passport-sized photograph, and self-attest all required documents.
- Submit the Application:
- Submit the filled form and documents to the concerned authority.
- Receive Acknowledgment:
- Request an acknowledgment receipt with details such as date, time, and a unique identification number.
Documents Required
- Proof of Identity: Aadhaar card, Voter ID, or other government-issued ID.
- Residence-cum-Nativity Certificate: Establishing permanent residency in Puducherry.
- Income Certificate: Valid certificate proving annual income.
- Caste Certificate: Verification of SC/OEBC status.
- Ration Card: For address proof.
- Certification of Non-Ownership: Issued by the Revenue Department confirming the applicant or their family does not own a house.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Eligibility and Requirements
- Why is there a 2-year construction requirement?
To ensure the housing sites are utilized promptly for their intended purpose. - Can an applicant with income exceeding ₹24,000 apply?
No, the annual income limit for eligibility is ₹24,000. - What department issues the non-ownership certification?
The Revenue Department provides the certification confirming the applicant does not own a house. - Are there restrictions on family members owning houses?
Yes, no family member of the applicant should own a house or house site. - What age is required for eligibility?
Applicants must be at least 18 years old.
Scheme Details
- How many people have benefited so far?
Over 11,000 beneficiaries have availed of the scheme since its inception. - Are there provisions for persons with disabilities?
The scheme does not specifically mention additional provisions for persons with disabilities. - Is there an application fee?
No, there is no fee for submitting an application under this scheme. - Where can I access further information?
Visit the official website of the Adi Dravidar Welfare and Scheduled Tribes Welfare Department for guidelines and updates.
Additional Resources
- Guidelines: Detailed rules and eligibility criteria for the scheme.
- Contact Us: Reach out to the Adi Dravidar Welfare Department for assistance.
- Application Status: Track your application using the acknowledgment receipt.
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the Distribution of Free House Sites to Scheduled Caste and Economically Backward Classes scheme. It simplifies the application process and ensures that eligible individuals can access the benefits without hassle.