Issuance of Free House Sites is a social welfare scheme of Tamil Nadu that gives free residential land to landless people from Backward Classes (BC), Most Backward Classes (MBC), and Denotified Communities (DNC). The scheme is still running and helps families who do not own any property build a permanent home and gain housing security.
Run by the Backward Classes, Most Backward Classes and Minorities Welfare Department of Tamil Nadu, this scheme has been active since 1981-82. It was first started for a few Most Backward Classes communities and was later extended to all MBC and DNC families in 1990-91, and then to all poor Backward Classes and other communities in 1997.
Issuance of Free House Sites - Introduction
Issuance of Free House Sites supports individuals from Backward Classes (BC), Most Backward Classes (MBC), and Denotified Communities (DNC) by granting them residential land. The scheme gives house sites at the rate of 3 cents per individual to families who do not possess any house or house site of their own.
Since 1994, a district level committee under the Chairmanship of the District Collector handles the purchase of land through private negotiation with landowners. This committee fixes the land value and completes the land acquisition process for issuing free house site pattas.
Key Information
| Key Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Scheme Name | Issuance of Free House Sites |
| Level | State |
| Scheme For | Individual |
| State | Tamil Nadu |
| Category | Social welfare & Empowerment |
| Target | Individual |
| Sub Category | Shelter |
| Benefit Type | In Kind |
| DBT Scheme | No |
| Department | Backward Classes, Most Backward Classes and Minorities Welfare Department |
Benefits
When you qualify for this scheme, you receive an allocation of a free residential plot. The land grant directly addresses the need for housing for families without property, offering you a path to own your own home.
House sites are given at the rate of 3 cents per individual. This means a family can receive enough land to build a permanent house and settle down in a secure place.
Eligibility
To qualify for this support, you should meet the following criteria:
- You should be a permanent resident of Tamil Nadu.
- You should belong to the Backward Classes (BC), Most Backward Classes (MBC), or Denotified Communities (DNC).
- You should not own any house or existing residential land.
- Your total annual family income should not exceed the limit shown below.
As per the official update, the parental income limit was increased to ₹1,00,000 per annum with effect from 2021-22. This is a single income limit for all applicants, whether they live in rural or urban areas.
| Area Type | Maximum Annual Income |
|---|---|
| All Areas (w.e.f. 2021-22) | ₹1,00,000 |
For example, if Ramesh lives in a rural village and earns ₹90,000 per year, he fits the income criteria, whereas Suresh in an urban city earning ₹1,10,000 would not be eligible under the current limit.
Application Process
You should follow these steps to apply for your residential site:
STEP 1 - Contact the District Backward Classes and Minorities Welfare Officer in your district to collect the application form.
STEP 2 - Fill in all required fields accurately, attach a passport-sized photograph, and sign it where indicated.
STEP 3 - Attach copies of your required documents and self-attest them if instructed.
STEP 4 - Submit your completed application to the same district office.
STEP 5 - Collect your receipt or acknowledgment slip, which confirms your submission date and unique reference number.
Documents
To process your request, you should keep the following documents ready:
- Valid identity proof like your Aadhaar card or PAN card.
- Your community certificate (BC/MBC/DNC).
- An official income certificate.
- Legal proof confirming you do not own any house or land site.
- Any additional certificates requested by the local authorities.
References
View Official House Sites Patta Details - Backward Classes Welfare Department
FAQ's
What is the objective of this scheme?
Issuance of Free House Sites aims to provide residential plots to landless individuals from specific community groups, helping them secure housing stability.
Who is eligible to apply for this scheme?
If you belong to the BC, MBC, or DNC categories and do not own any residential land or house, you are eligible to apply.
What is the maximum annual income limit for eligibility?
The parental income limit is ₹1,00,000 per annum, which has been in force since 2021-22.
Where should I submit my application?
You should submit your form to your local District Backward Classes and Minorities Welfare Officer.
What documents are required for my application?
You should provide your ID proof, income certificate, community certificate, and proof of non-ownership of land.
Is there an age requirement to apply?
No, there is no specific age limit for this scheme.
Are urban residents allowed to apply?
Yes, both rural and urban residents are encouraged to apply as long as they meet the income norms.
Will I get the land immediately after applying?
No, your application will go through a verification process by the department before the site is allotted to you.
Is there an application fee?
No, you do not have to pay any fee to apply for this scheme.
Who can I call for more help?
You should reach out to your local District Backward Classes and Minorities Welfare Officer for specific guidance.