The Union Minister for Housing and Urban Affairs and Power, Shri Manohar Lal, today highlighted the significant increase in urban sector investments during a press briefing in New Delhi. He stated that investments have grown 16 times, from approximately ₹1,78,053 crore between 2004-14 to ₹28,52,527 crore since 2014. This increase underscores the government’s commitment to achieving the goal of Vikshit Bharat by 2047.

Shri Manohar Lal emphasized that the accelerating rate of urbanization has made urban development a cornerstone of India’s growth strategy. Over the past six months, urban development schemes have been expanded and implemented with greater speed and efficiency.

Achievements under AMRUT

The Union Minister outlined key accomplishments under the Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT), including the creation of:

            •           4,649 MLD water treatment capacity.

            •           4,429 MLD sewage treatment capacity.

Under AMRUT 2.0, the government is prioritizing stormwater drainage systems to address waterlogging challenges, alongside continuing efforts to enhance drinking water availability and sewerage systems. (ANNEXURE 1- AMRUT )

Smart Cities and New Cities Scheme

Shri Manohar Lal announced that following the successful completion of the Smart Cities Mission, a New Cities Scheme has been conceptualized to manage the pressures of rapid urbanization. (ANNEXURE 2- SMART CITIES) (ANNEXURE 3 – NEW CITIES )

Urban Mobility and Sustainability Initiatives

The Minister highlighted the government’s focus on improving urban mobility through initiatives such as:

            •           Expansion of Regional Rapid Transit Systems (RRTS).

            •           Promotion of e-mobility and walkable streets in cities to reduce pollution and address environmental concerns. (ANNEXURE 4- Urban Transport)

Urban Housing and PMAY 2.0

Discussing urban housing, Shri Manohar Lal stated that a new Rental Housing Vertical has been introduced under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) 2.0, benefiting the migrant population. Key updates include:

• Converting existing Government funded vacant houses into ARH through PPP mode or by Public Agencies.
• Provisional sanctions for around 7% of the planned 1 crore urban houses based on the population of states signing MoUs, ensuring timely allocation and expediting the process.

To streamline operations, sanctions to states will be finalized based on demand received by March 31, providing clarity on yearly house allocations. (ANNEXURE 5 – PMAY)

Launch of New NULM Mission

The Union Minister announced that a revamped National Urban Livelihoods Mission (NULM) will soon be launched, informed by the results of a pilot project currently underway in 25 cities.

(ANNEXURE 6 – NULM)

The Minister reaffirmed the Central Government’s commitment to working in partnership with state governments by providing budgetary support, workforce training, and advanced technologies to foster urban development.

Under PM Svanidhi Scheme total Amount of loans Disbursed amounts to ₹ 13,422 Cr.

Under Swachh Bharat Mission, since 9^th June 2024, the Government has released more than Rs. 1,123 crores. Over the past six months since 9th June, two major dumpsites in Ahmedabad and Hyderabad have been completely remediated, successfully addressing approximately 2.5 lakh metric tonnes of legacy waste. (ANNEXURE 7 – SBM )

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JN/SK