Statement by India under Agenda Item 3: Interactive dialogue with Special Rapporteur on adequate housing as a component of the right to an adequate standard of living, and on the right to non-discrimination, Mr. Balakrishnan Rajagopal, during the 47th Session of Human Rights Council (21 June – 15 July 2021) delivered by Ms. Seema Pujani, Second Secretary, Permanent Mission of India, (Geneva, 23 June 2021) Statement by India under Agenda Item 3: Interactive dialogue with Special Rapporteur on adequate hou..
  • Home > 47th Session of Human Rights Council (21 June – 15 July 2021) > Statement by India under Agenda Item 3: Interactive dialogue with Special Rapporteur on adequate housing as a component of the right to an adequate standard of living, and on the right to non-discrimination, Mr. Balakrishnan Rajagopal, during the 47th Session of Human Rights Council (21 June – 15 July 2021) delivered by Ms. Seema Pujani, Second Secretary, Permanent Mission of India, (Geneva, 23 June 2021)

Statement by India under Agenda Item 3: Interactive dialogue with Special Rapporteur on adequate housing as a component of the right to an adequate standard of living, and on the right to non-discrimination, Mr. Balakrishnan Rajagopal, during the 47th Session of Human Rights Council (21 June – 15 July 2021) delivered by Ms. Seema Pujani, Second Secretary, Permanent Mission of India, (Geneva, 23 June 2021)

Statement by India under Agenda Item 3: Interactive dialogue with Special Rapporteur on adequate housing as a component of the right to an adequate standard of living, and on the right to non-discrimination, Mr. Balakrishnan Rajagopal, during the 47th Session of Human Rights Council (21 June – 15 July 2021) delivered by Ms. Seema Pujani, Second Secretary, Permanent Mission of India, (Geneva, 23 June 2021)

Madam President,

We take note of report of the Special Rapporteur that puts into perspective the contribution of the mandate since its establishment in 2000. We appreciate the good work done by the mandate in development of human rights guidelines and awareness raising.

We also take note of the significant challenges that the Special Rapporteur has identified for the realization of the right to adequate housing, such as the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and climate change.

Madam President,

In line with the Government of India’s commitment to ‘Housing for All’ by 2022, the world’s largest affordable housing programme is being implemented in India. Nearly 11.2 million new houses have been sanctioned, of which 4.8 million houses have already been built and delivered. The ownership of the houses is either solely with the female member of the household or in joint ownership. Thus, it has also contributed to empowerment of women while ensuring access to basic civic amenities to families.

Since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic last year, the Government has been providing dignified living spaces to people throughout the country. Affordable Rental Housing Schemes, offering ease of living to urban migrants and the poor near their workplaces, are being implemented across 31 States and Union Territories.   The Smart Cities Mission is transforming cities into sustainable centres of economic activity and providing improved quality of life. 

Madam President,

India is fully committed to the realization of the right to adequate housing for its people and to achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals by 2030. 

I thank you.

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