Introduction Affordable and inclusive housing stands at the forefront of India’s development agenda in 2025. As urbanization accelerates and the population grows, the need for homes that are accessible to all—regardless of income, ability, or background—has never been more urgent . This article explores the landscape, key policies, challenges, and innovative solutions shaping affordable and inclusive housing in India today. What is Affordable Housing? Affordable housing refers to residential units that low- and middle-income groups can purchase or rent without financial strain. Typically, housing is considered affordable if a household spends no more than 30-40% of its income on housing costs. Key Features: Target Groups: Economically Weaker Sections (EWS), Low-Income Groups (LIG), and Middle-Income Groups (MIG). Government Schemes: Major initiatives include the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) and state-level policies like Maharashtra’s ‘Majhe Ghar – Majhe Adhikar’. Pricing: Homes are often priced below ₹50 lakh, with calls to raise this cap in metro areas to reflect market realities. What is Inclusive Housing? Inclusive housing ensures that homes and communities are accessible and welcoming to all, regardless of age, ability, gender, or socio-economic status. This includes barrier-free design for the elderly and differently-abled, as well as social integration for marginalized groups. Key Features: Universal Design: Step-free entrances, wide doorways, accessible bathrooms, tactile flooring, and lever handles. Community Integration: Mixed-income and multi-generational communities with shared amenities and support services . Special Needs Accommodation: Dedicated facilities and trained caregivers for residents with disabilities or special needs. The Policy Landscape in 2025 National and State Initiatives Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY-U 2.0): The flagship scheme continues with enhanced funding, streamlined eligibility, and a sharper focus on urban housing needs. It includes interest subsidies for EWS/LIG and supports construction, enhancement, and partnerships for affordable housing . SWAMIH Fund 2: A special window for affordable and mid-income housing, with a ₹15,000 crore outlay to complete 100,000 stalled housing units, ensuring homebuyers receive possession and injecting liquidity into the sector. State Policies: Maharashtra’s 2025 Housing Policy targets 3.5 million affordable homes for EWS and LIG by 2030, with special schemes for seniors, women, students, differently abled, and industrial workers. It also introduces rent-to-own models and allows CSR funds for social housing . Recent Inclusive Measures 4% Reservation for Persons with Disabilities: In May 2025, the central government mandated a 4% reservation in all central government housing schemes for persons with disabilities, ensuring accessible, affordable, and dignified housing with universal design features. Public-Private Partnerships: States are leveraging PPPs to deliver large-scale affordable and inclusive housing, especially for transient populations like migrant workers and students. Challenges Rising Construction CostsHigher prices for materials and labor threaten project viability. Land Scarcity and High PricesUrban land is expensive and hard to acquire, pushing projects to city peripheries.Regulatory HurdlesComplex approvals and compliance delays slow down housing delivery.Financing BarriersMany buyers lack formal credit histories, limiting access to home loans.Declining Developer InterestDevelopers often favor high-margin luxury projects over affordable housing. Innovations and Solutions Policy Reforms and Incentives Tax Relief: Budget 2025 introduced lower income tax rates, increasing disposable income and home loan eligibility for buyers. Streamlined Approvals: The government has simplified the approval process for affordable housing, reducing red tape and accelerating project timelines . CSR Funding: Companies can now use CSR funds for affordable and social housing projects, expanding resources for inclusive housing . Design and Technology Universal Design: New housing projects incorporate accessibility features from the outset, such as ramps, wider doors, and barrier-free bathrooms. Green and Modular Construction: Eco-friendly materials and modular building methods reduce costs and environmental impact, while also improving speed and quality . Digital Platforms: State Housing Information Portals (SHIP) offer transparent, streamlined application and allocation processes . Community Models Inclusive Communities: Mixed-use and multi-generational developments foster social integration and support services for all residents. Rent-to-Own Models: Allowing occupants to rent homes for several years with the option to purchase later improves access for working women, students, and industrial workers. Success Stories Maharashtra’s Majhe Ghar – Majhe Adhikar: Targets 3.5 million affordable homes by 2030, with special provisions for vulnerable groups and innovative funding models. 4% Disability Reservation: Thousands of persons with disabilities now have priority access to accessible, affordable homes in central government schemes . PMAY-U 2.0: Continues to deliver interest subsidies, support for construction, and partnerships to expand housing access for EWS/LIG families. The Road Ahead Affordable and inclusive housing is central to India’s vision of equitable urban growth. While challenges persist—especially around supply, financing, and regulatory hurdles—policy focus, innovative design, and community-driven solutions are paving the way for a future where every Indian can access a safe, dignified, and affordable home . In summary: Affordable and inclusive housing is not just about building more homes—it’s about creating communities where everyone, regardless of income or ability, can live with dignity, security, and opportunity.

Introduction Architecture has always been a profound expression of cultural identity and heritage. Across centuries and civilizations, human settlements have evolved in harmony with their environments, drawing on local materials, craftsmanship, and cultural influences to create vernacular architecture. This form of architecture isn’t just about constructing buildings; it’s about weaving the cultural fabric of communities into their built environments. Nowhere is this more evident than in regions like Rajasthan, India, where vernacular architecture is an integral part of the cultural heritage. The magnificent forts, palaces, and temples of Rajasthan, particularly in places like Chittorgarh, are not merely historical artifacts—they are living testaments to a society’s values, beliefs, and ways of life. In this article, we explore in detail the significance of vernacular architecture, how it reflects culture and environment, and how government policies, community involvement, and educational initiatives are ensuring its preservation for future generations. Key Pointers: Vernacular Architecture: Definition and Cultural Significance Rajasthan’s Architectural Heritage: Chittorgarh as a Case Study Role of Government Policies in Preservation Community Involvement and Education in Architectural Conservation Case Studies from Rajasthan and Beyond Modern Lessons from Vernacular Architecture Detailed Expansion: 1. Vernacular Architecture: Definition and Cultural Significance Vernacular architecture refers to structures built using locally available materials, traditional construction techniques, and designs adapted to the local climate and culture. Unlike modern architecture, which often prioritizes uniformity and globalization, vernacular architecture is deeply rooted in the history, geography, and culture of a place. It reflects how generations of people have lived, adapted, and innovated within their particular environments. In Rajasthan, vernacular architecture is characterized by the use of sandstone, lime plaster, and other locally sourced materials. The architecture is not just functional—designed to withstand the extreme heat and dryness of the region—but also symbolic, reflecting the values of the Rajput rulers, who emphasized strength, beauty, and resilience. 2. Rajasthan’s Architectural Heritage: Chittorgarh as a Case Study Chittorgarh Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, spans roughly 700 acres and stands atop a hill, giving it a commanding view of the surrounding plains. Constructed over several centuries by different rulers of the Mewar kingdom, the fort exemplifies Rajput military architecture, designed to withstand long sieges and attacks. The massive stone ramparts, bastions, and gates are strategically placed to protect against invaders, while the interior of the fort is filled with palaces, temples, and reservoirs. One of the most iconic structures within Chittorgarh is the Vijay Stambh, or Victory Tower, built in the 15th century to commemorate a major victory. The tower is not just a military symbol but also a masterpiece of Rajput stone carving, with depictions of Hindu deities and mythological stories. This synthesis of defensive architecture with artistic and religious symbolism reflects the cultural and spiritual values of the time. The fort also houses several significant temples, such as the Kalika Mata Temple and the Meera Bai Temple. These religious structures showcase intricate stone carvings, reflecting the devotion and artistic mastery of the region. The use of local stone and traditional construction methods ensures that these structures are in harmony with their environment, making them not just architectural feats but also ecological ones. 3. Role of Government Policies in Preservation Recognizing the importance of Rajasthan’s architectural heritage, the Indian government and the Government of Rajasthan have implemented comprehensive policies and frameworks for heritage conservation. The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) plays a crucial role in surveying, restoring, and maintaining protected monuments like Chittorgarh Fort to ensure their longevity. These policies emphasize the use of traditional materials and techniques in restoration projects. For example, when sections of the fort need repair, craftsmen are brought in who still practice traditional stone-cutting and carving methods. This ensures that the integrity of the original design is preserved, and the site maintains its historical authenticity. The state government also promotes heritage tourism, which generates revenue for further conservation efforts. These initiatives are supported by UNESCO, which recognizes the global importance of preserving these architectural treasures. 4. Community Involvement and Education in Architectural Conservation Local communities often serve as the custodians of vernacular architecture. In Rajasthan, the knowledge of traditional building techniques, such as stone carving, lime plastering, and fresco painting, has been passed down through apprenticeships and family traditions. These artisans are often integral in restoration projects because their expertise ensures that new work remains true to the original materials and techniques. For example, in Chittorgarh, many local craftsmen specialize in working with the same types of stone that were used centuries ago to build the fort. Their deep understanding of local architectural traditions makes them invaluable partners in preserving Rajasthan’s heritage. Beyond craftsmanship, educational programs are helping to instill pride and awareness of architectural heritage among younger generations. Schools and local organizations often conduct heritage walks and workshops, where students learn about the historical significance of sites like Chittorgarh and how they were built. These programs foster a sense of ownership and responsibility towards heritage conservation. 5. Case Studies from Rajasthan and Beyond While Chittorgarh is a prominent case study, other sites in Rajasthan also highlight the importance of vernacular architecture. The city of Jaisalmer, for instance, is known for its golden forts and havelis (mansions), built with yellow sandstone that blends seamlessly with the desert landscape. The architecture here reflects not only the arid climate but also the trade and cultural influences that passed through the region. A broader example beyond India is the earthen architecture of Yemen, particularly in the city of Shibam. Known as the “Manhattan of the Desert,” Shibam’s towering mud-brick buildings have stood for centuries, adapted perfectly to the environment and culture. Similar to Rajasthan, local communities and governments have worked to preserve these structures using traditional methods. 6. Modern Lessons from Vernacular Architecture Vernacular architecture offers valuable lessons for modern architectural practices, especially in terms of sustainability and cultural sensitivity. By studying how communities adapted their architecture to local climates—such as using thick stone walls to keep interiors cool—modern architects can develop more sustainable designs that respect both the environment and culture. For instance, architects working on modern projects in Rajasthan often integrate the region’s architectural traditions into their designs—whether it’s by using local stone or adopting the courtyard style typical in historic havelis. Conclusion In conclusion, vernacular architecture is not just a relic of the past but a living legacy that continues to influence how we think about building sustainably and culturally responsibly. The case of Rajasthan, with Chittorgarh Fort as a centerpiece, showcases how architecture reflects a region’s culture, history, and environment. Through the combined efforts of government policies, community involvement, and education, this heritage is being preserved for future generations. Ultimately, vernacular architecture teaches us the importance of designing with respect to cultural heritage and environmental context. By honoring the wisdom of the past, we can build a more sustainable and culturally rich future. Sources: • The official Indian Culture portal details Chittorgarh Fort’s history, Rajput heritage, and its status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, including legends, architectural features, and major historical events. • Rajasthan Cab provides insights into the fort’s architecture, layout, and the legends surrounding its construction and sieges, emphasizing its cultural and historical importance. • Leverage Edu outlines the architectural features, timeline, and dynastic history of Chittorgarh Fort, highlighting its role as a symbol of Rajput power and resilience. • Cultural India summarizes key facts about the fort’s construction, major structures (like Vijay Stambh, temples, palaces), and its significance as a heritage site. • ABP Live and Google Arts & Culture both highlight the fort’s architectural marvels, its scale, and its importance among the Hill Forts of Rajasthan, focusing on its defensive structures, temples, and cultural legacy. • Video and visual sources provide overviews of the fort’s internal structures, layout, and the blend of military and religious architecture that defines Chittorgarh.

Vastu Shastra is an ancient Indian science of architecture and design, deeply rooted in the Hindu scriptures. It offers time-tested guidelines for constructing homes, temples, and cities in harmony with nature and cosmic energies. Here’s a clear, practical guide for laypersons, based strictly on ancient Hindu texts. Image courtesy: radha.name What is Vastu Shastra? The word Vastu means dwelling or place to live, while Shastra means doctrine or science. Vastu Shastra is the science of designing and building structures to ensure well-being, prosperity, and harmony for the inhabitants. Origins in Hindu Texts Vedas: Vastu Shastra is mentioned in the Rig Veda and Atharva Veda, where Vastospati is described as the protector of the house. Puranas: Texts like the Matsya Purana, Skanda Purana, Agni Purana, Garuda Purana, and Vishnu Purana contain references to Vastu principles for constructing temples and palaces. Epics: The Mahabharata and Ramayana describe cities and buildings constructed according to Vastu, such as Indraprastha and Ayodhya. Classical Treatises: Key manuals include the Manasara, Mayamata, Samarangana Sutradhara, Brihat Samhita (chapter 53), and Vishvakarmaprakasha, which detail city planning, house orientation, and temple architecture. Core Principles from Ancient Texts The Five Elements (Pancha Mahabhutas) Vastu is based on balancing earth (bhumi), water (jal), fire (agni), air (vayu), and space (akasha). Proper placement of rooms and elements in a house ensures harmony with these forces. Directions and Orientation The four cardinal directions (east, west, north, south) and their sub-directions are crucial. East-facing entrances are preferred for welcoming the morning sun and positive energy. The northeast (Ishanya) is considered most auspicious for water sources and prayer rooms. Site Selection and Preparation Ancient texts recommend choosing land with fertile soil, good drainage, and a peaceful environment. The ground should be leveled and purified before construction begins. Room Placement (as per Vastu Purusha Mandala) The Vastu Purusha Mandala is a sacred diagram used to plan the layout, dividing the site into a grid. Key placements : a) Brahmasthan (center): Keep open or light; avoid heavy structures. b) Kitchen: Southeast (Agni corner), as it represents fire. c) Master Bedroom: Southwest, for stability. d) Living Room: North or east, for light and openness. e) Bathrooms: Northwest or west. f) Prayer Room: Northeast. Proportions and Measurements Ancient texts stress the use of precise measurements (Ayadi Shadvarga) for every part of the house, ensuring symmetry and proportion. How to Execute Vastu in Your Home (Step-by-Step) : a) Select a plot with good soil, away from cemeteries. and busy roads. b) Orient the house so the main entrance faces east or north. c) Plan the layout using a grid (Vastu Purusha Mandala): d) Place the kitchen in the southeast. e) Place the master bedroom in the southwest. f) Keep the center open or lightly furnished. g) Place water sources and the prayer room in the northeast. h) Place bathrooms in the northwest or west. i) Use natural materials like wood, stone, and clay, as recommended in ancient texts. j) Ensure symmetry and proportion in room sizes and wall thickness. k) Purify the site before and after construction, as described in the Puranas & Vedas. Why Follow Vastu? According to the ancient scriptures, Vastu Shastra is not just superstition but a holistic approach to living in harmony with the environment and cosmic order. It aims to channel positive energies, promote health, happiness, and prosperity, and reduce stress and conflict within the household. References from Ancient Hindu Texts Rig Veda, Atharva Veda, Matsya Purana, Skanda Purana, Agni Purana, Garuda Purana, Vishnu Purana, Mahabharata, Ramayana, Manasara, Mayamata, Samarangana Sutradhara, Brihat Samhita, Vishvakarmaprakasha. In summary : Vastu Shastra, as described in the ancient Hindu texts, provides a grounded, practical system for planning and constructing homes that are in tune with natural and cosmic laws. By following these principles, anyone can create a dwelling that supports well-being, prosperity, and peace. Citations: [1] Origin of Vastu | PDF | Puranas | Hindu Literature - Scribd https://www.scribd.com/document/120028889/origin-of-vastu [2] Vaastu Reference in Ancient Scriptures - Pandit.com https://www.pandit.com/blogs/blog/vaastu-reference-in-ancient-scriptures [3] Vastu shastra - Wikipedia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vastu_shastra [4] Exploring the History of Vastu Shastra in Hinduism - Astrovaidya https://astrovaidya.in/exploring-the-history-of-vastu-shastra-in-hinduism/ [5] Vastu Shastra in Ancient Texts - Indian Encyclopedia - WordPress.com https://indianetzone.wordpress.com/2020/10/31/vastu-shastra-in-ancient-texts/ [6] Vastu Shastra in Ancient Texts https://www.indianetzone.com/vastu_shastra_ancient_texts [7] Vastu Shastra - Origin and Significance of Vastu Shastra https://vedicfeed.com/vastu-shastra/ [8] VASTU SHASTRA - Indian Scriptures https://www.hinduscriptures.in/vedic-knowledge/vastu-shastra/vastu-shastra

The quest to establish human life beyond Earth has long captivated scientists and visionaries. The BRAHMARS project, as depicted in the detailed concept image, outlines a comprehensive plan for building a self-sustaining human settlement on Mars, specifically at "The Gale Crater"—a site chosen for its evidence of ancient saltwater lakes and valuable soil samples. Why Mars? Mars stands out as the most habitable planet in our solar system after Earth. Its surface contains saltwater, which is crucial for sustaining life. The planet receives enough sunlight to power solar panels, and its day length and seasonal cycles are similar to those of Earth, making it a suitable candidate for human adaptation. Notably, Mars is considered Earth's "sister planet," with years that are roughly double the length of Earth's, providing a familiar rhythm for human settlers. Ideation and Design The BRAHMARS design proposes a self-sustaining system that prioritizes basic needs: food, energy, and shelter. The project envisions a phased expansion, starting with a discovery base for researchers and gradually growing into a settlement capable of supporting up to 250 people. This approach integrates advanced research and laboratory facilities to ensure the long-term viability of human life on Mars. Survival Essentials Five essentials are identified for sustaining human life on Mars: Water: Extracted from the soil by heating it until the water evaporates. Air (Oxygen): Produced using solar panels through the process of regolith electrolysis. Food: Grown in greenhouses using solar energy. Energy: Supplied by solar panels. Shelter: Provided by specially designed bio-domes and private pods. Key Architectural Elements Vegetation Tube: A conventional greenhouse with ETFE skin, filled with gas to maintain temperature for food production. Bio-dome: The main settlement space, designed for 35-50 people. Private Pods: Individual living, storage, and life support units. Discovery Base: A solar-powered facility for energy production, research, and communal activities. Conclusion BRAHMARS presents a thoughtful, phased approach to Martian colonization, focusing on self-sufficiency, sustainability, and scalability. By leveraging Mars’s unique resources and employing innovative architectural solutions, the project offers a compelling blueprint for humanity’s first steps toward becoming an interplanetary species. Source: Presentation board as Study reference

Importance of Energy Efficiency in Indian Architecture: India’s rapid growth in construction and urbanization places a high demand on energy resources. To ensure sustainable development, the Indian government has introduced several policies and codes that focus on energy efficiency in both commercial and residential buildings. These measures aim to reduce energy consumption, improve thermal comfort, and mitigate the carbon footprint of buildings. Key national standards like the Energy Conservation Building Code (ECBC) and the National Building Code (NBC) provide a framework for energy-efficient architecture. At the same time, local policies and bylaws—such as those by the Jaipur Development Authority—complement these national standards with region-specific guidelines. National Building Code (NBC) & Energy Conservation Building Code (ECBC) The National Building Code (NBC) of India provides comprehensive guidelines for building construction, covering everything from structural safety to fire protection and sustainability. The 2016 revision incorporates sustainability measures, emphasizing energy-efficient building techniques and materials. The Energy Conservation Building Code (ECBC) focuses specifically on energy performance for commercial buildings. It covers HVAC systems, lighting, building envelopes, and more. Buildings that comply with ECBC standards can significantly reduce energy consumption, which aligns with India’s sustainability goals. Urban Housing Bylaws & Eco-Niwas Samhita Urban housing in India also follows energy efficiency standards. The most relevant code is the Eco-Niwas Samhita (ENS), introduced specifically for residential buildings to improve thermal comfort and lower energy demand for cooling or heating. Most urban local bodies, including those in cities like Jaipur, integrate ENS guidelines into their bylaws to ensure residential buildings are also energy-efficient. Local & State Bylaws Example (Jaipur) Many states and cities have their own bylaws. For example, the Jaipur Development Authority includes incentives like extra Floor Area Ratios (FAR) for buildings that comply with green and energy-efficient standards. Rajasthan as a state has reinforced these bylaws, promoting sustainable building materials and techniques that align with both ECBC In Jaipur, the local bylaws often specify setbacks, allowable building height, and materials that can be used for construction to ensure both structural integrity and efficiency. These bylaws may also promote the use of locally sourced, sustainable materials. In addition to Jaipur, other Indian states like Maharashtra or Karnataka have similar bylaws tailored to their local environmental conditions. While these regional bylaws align with national codes, they may have additional requirements specific to the region’s climate and infrastructure challenges. Climate and Material Guidelines India’s varied climate requires architecture that adapts to local conditions to optimize energy use. For instance: In hot-dry regions, materials with high thermal mass and shading devices reduce cooling loads. In warm-humid regions, ventilation and moisture control are crucial to maintaining comfort. The Eco-Niwas Samhita (ENS) provides specific recommendations for material choices and building design according to regional climates. These guidelines help architects choose the right materials (like insulation, glazing, or roofing) to minimize energy loss. Conflict Resolution or Overlaps in Standards Occasionally, local and national guidelines may conflict—especially regarding allowable materials or energy performance targets. In such cases, the best practice is to consult local authorities or apply for special permissions that balance both safety and energy efficiency. Local Green Building Councils can often help navigate these overlaps by offering case studies or approvals that show how to comply with both sets of rules. Sources: National Building Code of India 2016 Bureau of Energy Efficiency – ECBC Guidelines Eco-Niwas Samhita – Bureau of Energy Efficiency Jaipur Development Authority bylaws, green building bylaws and other state-specific regulations Eco-Niwas Samhita – Climate-specific Guidelines Green Building Councils India – Case Studies