28-05-2025
Odisha presents housing strategy at ADB forum
Bhubaneswar: Odisha presented its 'housing for all' strategy at the Asian Development Bank's Water and Urban Development Forum-2025 held in Manila on Wednesday. The event focused on affordable housing in urban areas.
The forum brought together global experts to discuss ways to ensure housing for the economically weaker sections (EWS) and lower income groups (LIG), who struggle to build or buy pucca houses due to high construction and property costs.
The participants also spoke about the importance of improving living standards, healthcare, education, skill development and livelihood opportunities. These elements are seen as essential for complete urban growth.
Experts from international organisations and countries like UN Habitat, Malaysia, India, and the Netherlands shared their experiences. Their insights are expected to guide future housing policies and increase global cooperation.
Debasis Singh, additional secretary, housing and urban development department, represented the Odisha govt. He talked about the state's progress in providing affordable housing.
He also explained the challenges Odisha faces, and the new models being used to make housing inclusive and sustainable.
Singh shared Odisha's roadmap to expand its housing efforts and said the state is committed to creating resilient and inclusive urban spaces. "Our goal is to uplift the quality of life for all, especially the urban poor," he added.
He also called for stronger cooperation at national, regional and city levels to meet global housing goals. The session ended with a shared agreement on the need for partnerships and knowledge exchange to solve the housing crisis and build cities that are fair, liveable and ready for the future.
