Wednesday, October 08, 2025

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October 8, 2025 9:16 PM IST

Vigyan Bhawan | MoHUA | World Habitat Day 2025 | Urban Solutions to Crisis | Housing and Urban Affairs

MoHUA observes World Habitat Day 2025 on theme ‘Urban Solutions to Crisis’

The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) on Wednesday observed World Habitat Day 2025 at Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi, focusing on the theme “Urban Solutions to Crisis.” The event underscored the need for cities to become more resilient, inclusive, and sustainable while responding effectively to challenges such as climate change, migration, and rapid urbanisation.

The event was graced by Tokhan Sahu, Minister of State for Housing and Urban Affairs, as the Guest of Honour. Also present were Srinivas Katikithala, Secretary, MoHUA; Satinder Pal Singh, Additional Secretary, MoHUA; Kuldip Narayan, Joint Secretary and Mission Director (Housing for All/Housing Division); Shombi Sharp, United Nations Resident Coordinator in India; senior MoHUA officials; CMDs of autonomous organisations; and representatives from UN agencies, Housing and Urban Development Corporation (HUDCO), and National Housing Bank (NHB).

Delivering the keynote address, MoS Tokhan Sahu highlighted the crucial link between sustainable urbanisation and a nation’s development journey. He said the theme of World Habitat Day 2025 goes beyond a calendar observance, reaffirming India’s commitment to building resilient, inclusive, and future-ready cities. “If we invest wisely in resilience, empower local governments, and harness the potential of Public-Private–People Partnerships, our cities will not only be able to withstand crises but also emerge as powerful engines of growth,” he emphasised.

Addressing the gathering, Secretary Srinivas Katikithala said India’s policy response to urban crises should focus on strengthening cities through resilient infrastructure, adaptable social systems, and dynamic economies. He noted that while cities face significant challenges, they also provide unique opportunities for transformative action. “India’s approach is guided by a clear vision to turn these challenges into a foundation for future growth and prosperity,” he added.

Highlighting flagship initiatives such as Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana – Urban (PMAY-U), Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT), PM SVANidhi and Swachh Bharat Mission, the Secretary said these schemes reflect an integrated strategy to achieve infrastructure development with social inclusion and climate action with economic empowerment.

The event also featured the release of publications from various MoHUA divisions and organisations, including HUDCO, National Cooperative Housing Federation of India (NCHF), NHB, Central Government Employees Welfare Housing Organisation (CGEWHO), and Building Materials and Technology Promotion Council (BMTPC). The Housing for All Division launched a “Compendium of Good Practices” showcasing innovative initiatives by States and Union Territories in implementing PMAY-U.

To commemorate the day, prizes were awarded to winners of painting competitions organised for schoolchildren, including specially-abled students, by NHB, CGEWHO, HUDCO, and BMTPC.

In line with the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, panel discussions were held on “Integration of Urban and Peri-urban Areas into Metropolitan Cities,” “Understanding and Responding to Urban Flooding,” and “Equitable Cities.” The sessions brought together policymakers, practitioners, researchers, experts, and state officials to share strategies for building inclusive, liveable, and future-ready cities where no citizen is left behind.

The observance of World Habitat Day 2025 reaffirmed India’s commitment to advancing sustainable urban development, ensuring that cities remain resilient engines of growth while prioritising inclusivity and climate preparedness.

 

Last updated on: 8th Oct 2025