Pic: Spoorthi Ullal

Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru

Mangaluru, Jan 8: In the backdrop of the rising cost of construction material, a proposal on increasing the housing scheme benefit amount to Rs 2.5 lac has been sent to chief minister (CM) B S Yediyurappa, said Housing minister V Somanna.

Addressing a press meet at Circuit Hose on Wednesday, January 8, Somanna said that constructing houses at a cost of Rs 1.2 lac has become a challenge. The proposal aims to aid beneficiaries of different housing schemes and CM’s consent is awaited, he said.

Somanna also warned that a probe will be initiated against those who have ‘misused’ government money. “Data reveals that since 2014, around 14 lac houses have been allotted to beneficiaries under various government schemes. However, the ground reality shows something different. Many people have built cow sheds and other structures but claimed the benefit. This issue has been brought to my notice and it also indicates the involvement of government officials,” he said expressing his disappointment.

He further added that an app has been planned that will help allotting houses and hence give no room for misuse and irregularities.

In the next two years, allotment of 4 lac houses is planned by the government under different schemes. The money will be released in two instalments, instead of four which will further help beneficiaries.

The minister said that the beneficiaries, who have completed construction but still awaiting for the benefit, should visit the concerned Panchayat Development Officers (PDOs) on priority. The money will be released soon after the PDO, taluk panchayat executive officers and MLAs of the concerned region, certify the beneficiaries.