The new Housing and Urban Poverty Alleviation Minister Ajay Maken has said that his thrust will be to address the housing problems of urban slum dwellers and their livelihood. Talking to reporters after assuming the charge of his ministry today, Mr. Maken said the Centre will ask states to implement the second phase of Rajiv Awas Yojana with long term bankable rights to the allottees.

The Minister said 35 per cent of the dwelling units will be reserved for weaker sections. Mr. Maken underlined the need for constructing dwelling units for urban slum dwellers where they are living at present so that their livelihood is not disturbed. He said in case of non-feasibility of their rehabilitation at the living place, it should be within the radius of five kilometers.