As India’s urban population grows rapidly, the demand for affordable housing has become one of the most pressing issues for policymakers and urban planners. Major cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bengaluru are grappling with housing shortages, forcing millions of low-income families to live in informal settlements or slums with limited access to basic amenities.

The Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY), launched in 2015, aims to address this issue by providing affordable housing for all by 2024. Under the scheme, the government offers subsidies to economically weaker sections (EWS) and lower-income groups (LIG) for home purchases. While the program has seen success in rural areas, its impact in urban centers has been slower due to high land prices and complex regulatory frameworks.

Private sector participation in affordable housing has been limited, with developers often focusing on luxury housing projects due to higher profit margins. However, some real estate firms are now exploring low-cost housing solutions, such as prefabricated construction methods, to meet the rising demand.

The lack of affordable housing has severe implications for the urban poor, especially migrant workers who live in overcrowded slums without access to clean water, sanitation, or healthcare. The COVID-19 pandemic further exposed the vulnerability of these populations, as cramped living conditions made it difficult to follow safety protocols.

Addressing the housing crisis requires a multi-pronged approach, including policy reforms, innovative construction technologies, and better urban planning. Expanding access to affordable housing will not only improve the quality of life for millions but also support India’s broader goals of economic growth and social equity.