India’s growing population has led to a rising demand for residential properties. However, one of the biggest challenges remains affordability, as poverty continues to be a major concern. To address this, the government has introduced various housing categories such as Janta, LIG (Low-Income Group), MIG (Middle-Income Group), HIG (High-Income Group), EWS (Economically Weaker Section) flats and SFS (Self-Financing Scheme), ensuring homes are accessible to different income groups. This article explores the LIG, MIG, and HIG housing classifications, highlighting their differences from EWS and Janta flats. We will also cover eligibility criteria, government schemes, application processes, and other essential details related to these housing options.
What is LIG?
LIG stands for Low-Income Group, referring to households with an annual gross income between Rs 3 lakh and Rs 6 lakh. Homes under the LIG category are designed to be affordable for individuals in this income bracket. These units typically consist of a single dwelling in a multi-story building or a 60-square-meter unit and come equipped with essential amenities such as electricity, toilets, and water supply, ensuring basic living standards.
Difference between LIG and EWS
EWS, or Economically Weaker Section, comprises families with yearly incomes of up to Rs 3 lakhs. In addition, they go by the name “Economy based unreserved category.” Up to 30 square metres of carpeting are available in EWS apartments, along with necessities like power and water.
Difference between LIG and Janta flats
Janta flats are little apartments with a kitchen, a bathroom, and one room. A Janta apartment is 35 to 40 square metres in size. The fact that this apartment is affordable for families of any income level is crucial. Since this is accessible to anyone, it goes by the name Janta.
What is MIG?
MIG, or Middle-Income Group, is further classified into MIG-I and MIG-II, based on annual household income.
- MIG-I: Households earning between Rs 6 lakh to Rs 12 lakh annually fall under this category. The designated carpet area for MIG-I homes is 120 square meters.
- MIG-II: This includes households with an annual income of Rs 12 lakh to Rs 18 lakh, with a carpet area of 150 square meters.
Previously, the carpet area for MIG housing was smaller, ranging between 90 to 110 square meters, but it has since been expanded to accommodate growing needs.
See also: EWS meaning, conditions for inclusion, and documentation for verification
What is HIG?
HIG stands for High-Income Group and includes households with an annual income exceeding Rs 18 lakh. Those in this category are eligible for larger carpet areas and premium amenities. Housing options for HIG individuals typically include spacious 3 BHK flats, duplexes, and bungalows, offering enhanced comfort and luxury.
Eligibility criteria for LIG, MIG and HIG flats
You must fulfil the following eligibility requirements in order to utilise the amenities provided under these categories. For LIG apartments, the Indian government offers a discount on home loan interest rates. A subsidy was also provided to the MIG group before 2021, but that choice has since been reversed. Under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, the subsidy is being offered.
| Particulars | LIG | MIG (MIG-I and MIG-II) | HIG |
| Annual income of the household | Rs 3 to 6 lakhs | Rs 6 to 12 lakhs (MIG-I)
Rs 12 to 18 lakhs (MIG-II) |
Rs 18 lakhs and above |
| Carpet area | 90 square metres | 110 square metres (MIG-I)
150 square metres (MIG-II) |
Larger than LIG and MIG carpet area |
| Subsidy | 6.50% | No subsidy | No subsidy |
| Loan eligibility | 20 years | 20 years | 20 years |
| Amenities | Basic- roads, running water and electricity | Little more than Basic- fire fighting equipment, sports court | Luxurious- lift, gym, grocery store, car parking |
Specifications of LIG, MIG and HIG flats
Here are the typical specifications of LIG, MIG and HIG flats.
Specifications of LIG flats
- Size: Typically range from 300 to 600 sq ft
- Amenities: Basic facilities like electricity and water; often lacking additional features.
- Price: The most affordable option, ideal for low-income families.
- Eligibility: Annual household income between Rs 3 lakh and Rs 6 lakh.
- Loan and subsidy: Loan eligibility for up to 20 years with a 6.50% subsidy on home loan interest rates under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY).
Specifications of MIG flats
- Size: Usually between 600 to 1,200 sq ft
- Amenities: Moderate facilities, including community spaces, parks and essential services.
- Price: Suitable for middle-class families, offering a good balance of comfort and cost.
- Eligibility: Annual household income between Rs 6 lakh and Rs 18 lakh.
- Loan and subsidy: Loan eligibility up to 20 years, no subsidy after 2021.
Specifications of HIG flats
- Size: Generally 1,200 sq ft and larger
- Amenities: Luxury offerings such as gyms, swimming pools and premium finishes.
- Price: High-end pricing, aimed at affluent buyers seeking premium properties.
- Eligibility: Annual household income above Rs 18 lakh.
- Loan and subsidy: Loan eligibility up to 20 years, no subsidy.
Benefits of LIG, MIG and HIG flats
Here are some of the key advantages of investing in LIG, MIG and HIG flats:
Benefits of LIG flats
- Affordable entry: LIG flats serve as an excellent starting point for first-time buyers, offering an affordable way to invest in real estate.
- Appreciation potential: As affordable housing demand increases, LIG flats can see substantial growth in value over time, making them a solid investment.
- Rental demand: Due to their affordability, LIG flats often attract tenants, generating a reliable rental income.
Benefits of MIG flats
- Value for money: MIG flats offer a reasonable price for the amenities they provide, catering to families seeking comfort without excessive expenditure.
- Practical location: Typically located near essential amenities like schools, hospitals, and transportation, these flats meet practical living needs.
- Stable growth: With a moderate price range and growth potential, MIG flats are a sound long-term investment.
Benefits of HIG flats
- Luxury living: HIG flats offer an elevated lifestyle with expansive living spaces and high-end amenities that enhance the overall living experience.
- Strong resale value: HIG flats tend to appreciate significantly, offering excellent returns on investment for affluent buyers.
- Prime locations: These flats are typically found in well-established areas with superior infrastructure and community facilities.
Housing schemes for LIG, MIG and HIG flats
In India, a number of housing initiatives are underway to ensure that everyone has a place to live. Each of the three categories—LIG, MIG, and HIG—has a unique system. Following is a list of a few schemes organised by category.
| Scheme Name | Category |
| Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana | LIG |
| Maharashtra Housing and Area Development Authority Scheme (MHADA) | LIG, MIG and HIG |
| Delhi Development Authority (DDA) Housing Scheme | LIG, MIG and HIG |
| West Bengal Housing Board Scheme | LIG, MIG and HIG |
| Rajiv Awas Yojana | LIG |
| Tamil Nadu Housing Board Scheme | LIG, MIG and HIG |
Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY)
The Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) was unveiled in 2015. It is a government-led effort with the goal of giving lower-income group (LIG) households access to affordable housing. The decision to extend the program’s eligibility to MIG-I and MIG-II families until 2021 has been reversed. LIG households are given a subsidy of 6.50% under the Credit Linked Subsidy Scheme (CLSS). By 2024, 2.95 lakhs pucca dwellings are to be constructed.
Maharashtra Housing and Area Development Authority (MHADA)
To provide affordable homes in Maharashtra, the Maharashtra Housing and Area Development Authority (MHADA) was established. The number of housing units is determined by the household’s monthly income. A Maharashtra citizen who is 18 years of age or older, has a PAN card, and has a steady source of income is eligible to qualify for a house loan under the programme.
| Category | Monthly Income of Household |
| LIG | Rs 25,000 to Rs 50,000 |
| MIG | Rs 50,000 to Rs 75,000 |
| HIG | Above Rs 75,000 |
Housing Program of the Delhi Development Authority (DDA)
All Delhi residents who are at least 18 years old are eligible for this housing programme. The programme is related to the PMAY programme. A total of 1800 apartments will be offered for sale in 2021–2022. The LIG, MIG, and HIG categories are given access to this programme.
Scheme of the West Bengal Housing Board
For a variety of economic brackets, the West Bengali government has pledged to supply 35,000 apartments. The lottery mechanism is used to distribute the homes and apartments.
| Category | Monthly income |
| LIG | Rs 10,000 to Rs 15,000 |
| MIG I | Rs 15,000 to Rs 25,000 |
| MIG II | Rs 25,000 to Rs 40,000 |
| HIG | More than Rs 40,000 |
Rajiv Awas Yojana
LIG households are given access to the Rajiv Awas Yojana. By 2022, the programme wants to have an India devoid of slums. For the less fortunate members of society, affordable dwelling units measuring 21 to 40 square metres are constructed.
Scheme of the Tamil Nadu Housing Board
Every income category—LIG, MIG, and HIG—is to receive affordable housing, according to the Tamil Nadu Housing Board. An adult Tamil Nadu native may apply for this housing programme. However, a candidate cannot be a homeowner in Tamil Nadu or any other state that participates in a separate housing programme.
How to apply for housing schemes for LIG, MIG and HIG flats?
To apply for various housing schemes, follow the steps outlined below for each:
PMAY Scheme
You can apply for the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) either online or offline.
- For offline, visit a state-run Common Service Center (CSC) or a bank authorized under PMAY. Fill out the application form and submit your documents.
- For online, visit the official PMAY website, fill in the application form, and upload the required documents.
MHADA Scheme
To apply for the MHADA scheme, visit the official website. Create an account, fill out the application form, choose the appropriate lottery scheme and income group, upload documents in JPEG format, and make the payment before submitting your form.
DDA Housing Scheme
To apply for DDA housing schemes, visit the DDA’s official website. Complete the application form with all necessary details and pay the registration fee (between Rs 25,000 to Rs 2,00,000). You can also apply through a bank listed with DDA. Documents are only required if you win the lottery.
West Bengal Housing Board Scheme
To apply for the West Bengal Housing Board Scheme, go to the official website, download the application form, and submit the form along with required documents to the relevant department.
Rajiv Awas Yojana
For information regarding the Rajiv Awas Yojana, visit the official portal of the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MOHUA) where you can contact them directly.
Tamil Nadu Housing Board Schemes (TNHB)
To apply for the TNHB scheme, you can either purchase the application form at the Exe. Engineer and Admin Officer’s office in Chennai or fill out the online application form available on the TNHB website. Make the necessary deposit fee and submit the form.
Things to remember about LIG, MIG and HIG housing schemes
Here are key points to keep in mind:
- Government subsidies: Under schemes like Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY), LIG and MIG homebuyers can avail of interest subsidies on home loans, while HIG buyers may not be eligible. However, the subsidy is only available if the home loan is taken from a bank or NBFC.
- Availability: LIG housing is often developed by government bodies like DDA, MHADA, and state housing boards, whereas MIG and HIG units may also be provided by private developers.
- Resale and Allotment Restrictions: LIG homes often come with resale restrictions to prevent speculative buying, while MIG and HIG homes typically have fewer restrictions.
- Pucca House Restriction: To avail of any government housing scheme, you or any family member should not own a Pucca house in any state.
- One-Time Benefit: You can avail of any one housing scheme only once in your lifetime.
Impact of LIG, MIG, and HIG housing schemes on urban development
The LIG, MIG, and HIG housing schemes play a significant role in fostering urban development. Their contributions to urban areas can be seen in the following ways:
- Encouraging inclusive growth: These schemes ensure that people from various income groups have access to housing. LIG flats are designed to accommodate lower-income individuals, while MIG flats bridge the gap between low and high-income groups, supporting a robust middle class. HIG flats cater to the higher-income bracket, promoting the growth of premium housing. Together, these schemes contribute to balanced urbanisation and social equity.
- Improving infrastructure and facilities: The launch of LIG, MIG, and HIG housing projects often leads to the development of essential infrastructure. These projects typically necessitate upgrades to water supply systems, transportation networks, sanitation and electricity. Additionally, they bring about the development of community amenities like healthcare facilities, parks, schools, and commercial centres, enhancing the overall urban infrastructure.
- Boosting economic growth: Housing development stimulates economic activity by creating jobs and driving demand in industries such as real estate, construction, and various service sectors. The construction of LIG, MIG, and HIG flats increases the demand for building materials and labour, which in turn supports local economies. Moreover, these housing projects can attract further investment, spurring local businesses and contributing to sustainable urban growth.
Housing.com POV
LIG, MIG, and HIG housing schemes have significantly transformed the real estate landscape in India. By offering housing options tailored to different income groups, these schemes promote inclusivity, ensuring that individuals across various economic backgrounds have access to suitable homes. Beyond housing, they contribute to broader urban development by improving infrastructure, stimulating economic growth, and fostering social equity. As these schemes continue to evolve, they remain crucial in addressing the housing needs of India’s diverse population, supporting both economic progress and urban modernisation.
FAQs
What is the income limit for LIG?
LIG stands for Low-Income Group in its whole form. This category includes households with an annual income of between Rs 3 lakhs and Rs 6 lakhs.
Who qualifies for HIG housing or an apartment?
This group includes everyone who is at least 18 years old and has an annual family income of more than Rs 18 lakhs.
What facilities are available in the LIG apartment?
Facilities, including roads, water supplies, power, fire suppression systems, and sports courts, are available in LIG apartments or homes.
How much financial support is provided to LIG under CLSS?
LIG households are eligible for a subsidy of up to 6.50% under PMAY CLSS.
What is the difference between LIG, MIG and HIG?
LIG stands for Low-Income Group, MIG represents Middle-Income Group, and HIG stands for High-Income Group. These classifications are primarily based on individuals' economic status.
Is MIG eligible for PMAY?
In addition to the EWS and LIG categories, the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) also extends eligibility to middle-class families, including both MIG-I and MIG-II.
What is the full form of EWS flat?
EWS flats are residences constructed for the Economically Weaker Sections, and EWS stands for Economically Weaker Sections.
Who is eligible for EWS benefits?
Individuals who do not belong to Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, or Other Backward Classes but have a gross household income below Rs 8 lakh per annum are eligible for EWS reservation.
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