HOUSING PROBLEMS AND PROGRAMMES IN INDIA

ABSTRACT The 1981 census put India's population at 683,810,051. By the end of the century it would be around 950 to 1000 million, out of which the urban sector would contribute 335 to 350 million. There is a shortage of 19.7 million dwelling units, likely to rise to 71.1 million units, according to the United Nations criterion. To build even 43 million rural units, an investment of Rs.13,000 crores would be required during the sixth plan period. New technological innovations in construction of houses are being tried by research organisations, using indigenous and cheaper materials. The Housing and Urban Development Corporation and State Boards of Housing provide finance for construction of houses. The sixth plan envisages development of satellite towns around the present cities to prevent them from dying!