J&K to get 1,500 smart houses for families hit during Op Sindoor - 'These won't just be basic shelters'

An MoU has been signed between HRDS India & Divisional Commissioners Jammu/Kashmir for building houses

The High-range Rural Development Society (HRDS India) on Thursday signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with divisional commissioner Jammu and divisional commissioner Kashmir to build 1,500 “smart houses” damaged during Operation Sindoor and recent floods in Jammu and Kashmir.

According to a government spokesperson, the initiative will also extend to families of terror victims whose homes were destroyed by militants. Each family will be covered under a 15-year life insurance policy, along with monthly health check-ups to ensure their well-being.

The signing ceremony was held at Raj Bhawan, in the presence of Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, who praised the effort and called it a step toward giving people hope and stability after years of hardship.

As part of the project, HRDS India will construct 1,500 three-bedroom houses free of cost. These will not just be basic shelters, but “smart houses” designed with modern features for safety, comfort, and digital access.

“It is about building dreams, a fresh start and a new chapter in the lives of affected families. Human losses are so profound and devastating that they can’t be measured but this initiative will definitely ease their suffering,” Sinha said.

In addition, HRDS India will provide digital connectivity for every home. With support from BSNL, all beneficiary households will receive free internet access, which will help children continue their education, improve communication, and promote digital inclusion, Hindustan Times reported.

HRDS India volunteers will regularly visit the households to inform families about government welfare schemes and conduct awareness sessions on health, hygiene, education, and preventive care. Every five years, the organisation will also repaint the houses free of cost, ensuring they remain in good condition.

During Operation Sindoor, heavy shelling from across the border caused widespread damage, affecting homes, schools, shops, and religious places. Hundreds of families were left displaced.