From the dusty lanes of western Odisha to the ceremonial lawns of Rashtrapati Bhawan, Smt. Surekha Mallick’s life story is a testament to courage, perseverance, and the transformative power of housing security.
For years, Mallick sold bangles on the streets of Binika to support her family while caring for her bedridden husband, who suffered from a rare respiratory illness. Living in a cramped kaccha house, she raised her children with quiet dignity, often surviving on meagre earnings.
Her life changed in 2019 when she received assistance under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Urban). With government support, she built a modest pucca house — a space that offered both care and comfort. Though she lost her husband earlier this year, the home remains a symbol of strength and stability for her family.
Recognising her inspiring journey, the Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs (MoHUA) selected Mallick to represent Odisha at the 79th Independence Day celebrations in New Delhi. Accompanied by her son Alok, she attended the prestigious At Home Reception hosted by the Hon’ble President of India at Rashtrapati Bhawan on August 15, 2025.
“This honour is not mine alone,” Mallick said with emotion. “It belongs to every family that has found dignity and courage through owning a home. I am deeply grateful to the Hon’ble Prime Minister for PMAY (Urban), which has given us more than shelter — it has given us hope.”
Hon’ble Minister for Housing & Urban Development, Dr. Krushna Chandra Mohapatra, praised her story: “Surekha Mallick’s life proves that a home can transform lives. Her presence at Rashtrapati Bhawan is a matter of pride for Odisha and a shining example of the impact of PMAY (Urban).”
From humble beginnings to national recognition, Mallick’s journey is not just personal triumph — it is Odisha’s pride and India’s inspiration.
