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The Maharashtra Government is prioritising affordable housing through initiatives like the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) and slum rehabilitation projects. By reserving housing units for economically weaker sections, introducing subsidy schemes, and partnering with private developers, the state aims to make homeownership more accessible. Shri Atul Save, Hon’ble Minister, Department of Housing, Government of Maharashtra, in an exclusive interview with Puja Banerjee, Senior Assistant Editor of Elets News Network (ENN), discusses the state’s housing development initiatives and shares his vision for transforming Maharashtra into a model state for housing development.

What are the key initiatives your department has undertaken to address housing development in Maharashtra?

Our primary focus has been on increasing the supply of affordable housing through various schemes and initiatives. We have strengthened the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) in both urban and rural areas, aiming to provide housing for all. Additionally, we are working on slum rehabilitation projects and improving transparency in real estate transactions through RERA. Our goal is to ensure that every citizen in Maharashtra has access to safe, secure, and affordable housing.

How is the government ensuring that affordable housing projects are accessible to the economically weaker sections (EWS) and lower-income groups?

We have implemented policies to reserve a significant percentage of housing units for EWS and lower-income groups in all our projects. We have also introduced subsidy schemes and easy financing options to make homeownership more accessible. Furthermore, we are collaborating with private developers to incentivise the construction of affordable housing units, ensuring that these homes are built well and delivered on time.

What steps are being taken to modernise the housing sector and incorporate sustainable practices?

Sustainability is at the core of our housing policies. We are promoting the use of green building materials and technologies that reduce the environmental impact of construction. Our new housing projects are designed with energy efficiency in mind, incorporating solar power, rainwater harvesting, and waste management systems. Additionally, we are focusing on the redevelopment of older housing structures in a manner that aligns with modern sustainability standards.

How is the Maharashtra government addressing the issue of slum rehabilitation and redevelopment?

Slum rehabilitation is a significant part of our housing policy. We are working on the redevelopment of slum areas through public-private partnerships, ensuring that residents are provided with better living conditions. The Slum Rehabilitation Authority (SRA) has been tasked with fast-tracking these projects, and we are also ensuring that slum dwellers are involved in the planning process to meet their specific needs.

Can you share your vision for the future of housing in Maharashtra?

My vision is to create a Maharashtra where every citizen has access to a home that is safe, affordable, and conducive to a high quality of life. We aim to achieve this by continuing to implement forward-thinking policies, leveraging technology, and fostering partnerships with the private sector. Our longterm goal is to make Maharashtra a model state for housing development, with a focus on inclusivity, sustainability, and resilience.

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