Paperman Media । Bhubaneswar, October 24
Odisha showcased its integrated approach to affordable housing, highlighting beneficiary assistance, policy reforms and innovative housing models at the 2nd National Urban Conclave 2026 in Bhubaneswar.
Speaking at a session on “Affordable Housing – Demand & Supply Dynamics,” Smt. Usha Padhee, IAS, Additional Chief Secretary, Housing and Urban Development Department, Government of Odisha, outlined initiatives to address housing needs among economically weaker and vulnerable urban households.
A key highlight was PMAY-Urban BANDHU (Beneficiary Assistance for Nurturing Development of Housing Units), with ₹1,615 crore earmarked over five years. The initiative aims to support housing projects, construction workers and eligible households while promoting affordable, rental and transit housing.
Odisha has adopted diverse housing models, including beneficiary-led construction, in-situ slum redevelopment, relocation, dedicated affordable housing projects and rental accommodation. Approximately 1.4 lakh houses have been completed and occupied under beneficiary-led construction across urban Odisha. Rental housing retrofitting projects in Rourkela, Dhenkanal, Paradip and Jharsuguda are also being supported under BANDHU, particularly benefiting migrant workers and mobile urban populations.
Ms. Padhee highlighted reforms to reduce housing costs and encourage private investment, including reduced stamp duty and registration charges, mandatory EWS and LIG housing provisions, and incentives through additional Floor Area Ratio (FAR) and Transferable Development Rights (TDR).
The proposed BHUMI (Bank of Land for Housing & Urban Masterplan and Infrastructure) framework was another key highlight. It envisages a GIS-based land inventory and dedicated mechanisms for allocating land for housing and urban infrastructure. The draft policy is being processed for proposed Cabinet approval.
The discussions emphasised coordinated government support, private-sector participation and planned land availability to bridge the housing gap and promote inclusive, sustainable urban development.
