Odisha to Deploy AI in Housing Schemes to Detect Irregularities

Bhubaneswar : The Odisha government will soon introduce Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology to identify ineligible beneficiaries under housing schemes, Panchayati Raj Minister Rabi Narayan Naik announced.

The minister said the initiative is aimed at simplifying and strengthening the monitoring process of housing projects, particularly under flagship schemes like the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY). He warned that individuals who have wrongfully availed benefits despite owning pucca houses or receiving assistance under other housing and Antyodaya schemes will face strict action.

“The department has already begun the process of using AI to detect irregularities. Although the number of cases where beneficiaries fail to construct houses after receiving financial aid is very limited, we are keeping a close watch on such instances,” Naik stated.

He further directed officials to ensure that sanctioned houses are completed within the stipulated time frame. Any irregularities detected during the AI-driven monitoring process will invite immediate corrective measures.

By leveraging AI, the state government aims to eliminate misuse of welfare schemes and ensure that housing benefits reach only the genuinely eligible, fulfilling its goal of providing shelter to every deserving household.