The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the scenarios of builders and homeowners as sustainable healthy living takes centre-stage. In this backdrop our efforts to build a sustainable and affordable housing initiative is reinforced. In context to this, IIFL Home Finance announced the launch of the sixth edition of ‘Kutumb’ initiative that focuses on promoting “green affordable housing”. 

The government is pushing for affordable housing. On the other hand, developers are ensuring that these buildings can also be green. GRIHA for Affordable housing is one such initiative under the PMAY scheme that gives ratings to the affordable units on the parameters of sustainability and thus helping buyers make a rational decision. GRIHA Council is a not-for-profit society jointly set up by The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI) and the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) to promote green buildings in India. Adding on, making sustainable structures increases the cost for developers that ultimately is paid by customers is not right for every case. It depends upon the choice of technology adopted. Contrary to popular perception, affordability lies at the core of sustainability.

Mr. Pradeep Aggarwal, Founder & Chairman – Signature Global Group & Chairman – ASSOCHAM National Council on Real Estate, Housing and Urban Development says, “While rapid urbanization, growing cities provide various opportunities, Linking sustainability with quality rather than pricing can create opportunities for upcoming housing projects, especially since India’s socio-economic environment demand different perceptions of affordability. The underlying idea is that home buyers should be able to maintain comfortable living standards within affordable sustainable housing.