Law & Policy

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Gujarat Government introduces a new system to expedite the town planning process

The Gujarat state government has reformed the town planning (TP) scheme to enhance efficiency and transparency. These changes will allow town planners to declare a preliminary scheme within seven months, compared to the previous 12-month average. A newly established Original Plot Approval Committee (OPAC) will ensure plot boundaries remain intact until approval. The process will appoint a town planning officer (TPO) early to accelerate the drafting phase. The scheme proposals will be accessible online to ensure transparency. The reforms reflect Gujarat's influential TP model and invite public input until mid-September for further refinement....
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PM Modi allocates INR 2,745 crore under PMAY-G for rural housing

Prime Minister Narendra Modi released the first instalment of funds under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana-Gramin (PMAY-G) to thousands of rural beneficiaries, with INR 2,745 crore allocated to about one million individuals in Jharkhand. This initiative, aiming to build 2.95 crore houses by March 2024, includes a "griha pravesh" ceremony for 2.6 million new homeowners. Recent rule changes, like raising the income limit and removing exclusions, aim to widen the scheme's reach. The programme extension to 2028-29 targets an additional two crore houses, promoting poverty-free rural development....
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Government issues draft standards for finance system under PM Surya Ghar Scheme

The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy has unveiled draft guidelines for central financial support and payment security under the RESCO and utility-led models for rooftop solar systems. In the RESCO model, a renewable energy company installs and maintains the system for five years without upfront costs to the consumer. The consumer pays only for the electricity generated, and after the company's investment is recovered, the system becomes the consumer's property, making electricity nearly free. Alternatively, RESCO operators may sell power to the grid. In the utility-led model, state distribution companies own the systems for five years before transferring ownership to households....
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Over 3,000 lakes in Hyderabad await final notifications amid survey delays

After 11 years, the Hyderabad Metropolitan Development Authority (HMDA) has made slow progress in finalizing notifications for the Full Tank Levels (FTL) and buffer zones of over 3,000 lakes. With fewer than 10% of lakes receiving final approval, many preliminary surveys remain incomplete. Recent enforcement by HYDRAA has pressured HMDA to accelerate surveys, mandating targets for collectors. Since August, 65 lakes have been surveyed, and 269 preliminary notifications issued, but completing all surveys and issuing final notifications is expected to take at least another year....
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Noida Authority seals Grand Omaxe society over INR 457 crores in unpaid dues

Noida Authority recently sealed Omaxe Buildhome's Grand Omaxe housing society in Sector 93B due to non-payment of INR 457.8 crore in dues. The developer failed to pay 25% of the recalculated dues, approximately INR 114.4 crore, even after receiving relief under the Covid-19 relief package. Noida Authority CEO Lokesh M stated that the developer had ignored multiple notices before the property was sealed. The Authority also plans to seal unsold flats and vacant land at other projects. Of 57 defaulting projects, only 22 have accepted the rehabilitation package, with 29 developers owing around INR 6,900 crore....
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Goa government to launch affordable housing scheme for local residents

Chief Minister Pramod Sawant announced a new affordable housing initiative aimed at providing relief to Goans facing rising property prices and limited land. The government plans to construct 50 to 100 flats in each taluka, priced between INR 10 to 15 lakh. These homes will be built on housing board or revenue land, with the goal of completion within two years. The scheme is in the draft stage, and allocation processes are yet to be finalized. Additionally, Sawant emphasized environmental protections, such as monitoring hill cutting and reassessing approvals for large-scale projects across Goa....
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SC refuses to stay Adani Goodhomes' acquisition of Radius Estates

The Supreme Court has declined to stay the resolution plan proposed by Adani Goodhomes, a subsidiary of Adani Infrastructure and Developers, to acquire the insolvent real estate company Radius Estates. The case highlights the ongoing challenges surrounding substantial haircuts taken by lenders in insolvency resolutions. While the dissenting creditors have raised concerns about the 93% haircut imposed by the plan, the majority of stakeholders, including homebuyers, have endorsed Adani Goodhomes' proposal. Adani Goodhomes has offered approximately INR 76 crore to Radius Estates' creditors, who have claims totalling around INR 1,700 crore. Adani Goodhomes has also committed to completing the residential project in Mumbai at no additional cost to the homeowners....
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Gujarat introduces incentives for green building development

The Gujarat state government has introduced a new policy to incentivize the construction of green buildings. The policy offers Floor Space Index (FSI) incentives for buildings that are rated by agencies like GRIHA, IGBC, and LEED, with the exemption ranging from 7% to 12% of the chargeable FSI. However, the government has also imposed penalties for non-compliance, with buildings that fail to obtain the required rating facing a penalty twice the amount of the incentive FSI. The policy aims to promote sustainable development and encourage the adoption of eco-friendly building practices in the state....
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Delhi Development Authority's new process simplifies homeownership documentation

The Delhi Development Authority (DDA) has introduced a new system for delivering flat documents to buyers in a customised folder, following instructions from Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena. This folder includes all essential documents, such as the possession letter and various certificates, aiming to simplify the process and enhance the buyer experience. Additionally, a new format for the possession slip will feature a photograph of the buyer to ensure authenticity and add a memorable touch to the transaction. This initiative, starting with Golf View Apartments in Dwarka, reflects the DDA's commitment to improving property transactions....
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Ghaziabad civic body finalises Indirapuram takeover with INR 185 crore agreement

The long-awaited handover of Indirapuram from the Ghaziabad Development Authority (GDA) to the corporation, a process underway since 2016, is nearing completion. Following a recent board meeting, the GDA agreed to transfer INR 185 crore to the corporation, allocated for infrastructure repairs and development, including road, sewage, and water systems, along with funding for a waste transfer station and material recovery centre. Payments will be delayed over 10 months, with initial funds provided upfront. The transfer had been delayed due to disagreements over the amount, but recent directives and agreements have set the process in motion....
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Goa government to review permits for DLF and Bhutani Infra projects

The Goa government recently announced a review of the permits granted for real estate projects by DLF and Bhutani Infra due to local protests. Town and Country Planning Minister Vishwajit Rane stated that his department would reassess permissions for DLF's villa project in Reis Magos and Bhutani Infra's project in Sancoale, with potential cancellation if rule violations are found. Locals claim extensive hill cutting, and a breach of planning laws. Rane noted that no new permits for hill cutting have been issued in six months and plans to discuss strengthening regulations with Chief Minister Pramod Sawant....
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Chhattisgarh Government secures approval for 8 lakh rural homes under PMAY

The Chhattisgarh government has received approval from the Centre for the construction of 8,46,931 houses under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojna (PMAY) in rural areas. This follows the government's pledge to build 18 lakh houses in the state, addressing a backlog amidst the poor implementation of the scheme in the state. The government has now allocated the state's share of funding and included beneficiaries from previous housing schemes as well. The state government has also requested a separate housing scheme for surrendered Naxalites and those affected by Maoist violence. Alongside PMAY, the state has launched its own "Niyad Nellanar" initiative for village development and completed most of the houses sanctioned under the PM-JANMAN scheme for Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups....
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Rajaji Nagar redevelopment project set to begin after long delay

The much-anticipated redevelopment of the Rajaji Nagar colony in Thiruvananthapuram is finally moving forward, with the tender for the project being awarded. The INR 9 crore project is expected to be completed within nine months and will involve the construction of 248 units, along with infrastructure improvements. However, the project has faced delays due to allegations of some residents not being the true beneficiaries, leading to protests. While the initial plan was to relocate 189 families, only a few are being relocated now due to resistance from the residents....
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Delhi HC initiates suo moto action on property mutation in urban villages

The Delhi High Court has taken action to assist the residents of over 300 urbanised and declared urban villages in Delhi who face severe difficulties in transferring ownership of their ancestral properties. For years, these villagers have struggled with getting their properties "mutated" into their names, which is essential for repairs, dividing the property, or taking loans. The lack of a clear policy has led to many legal issues and hardships. Local activists are calling for changes to the law....
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RBI imposes fines on Godrej, Aadhar, and HUDCO for non-compliance

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has imposed penalties on Godrej Housing Finance, Aadhar Housing Finance, and HUDCO for non-compliance with regulatory guidelines. Godrej was fined for failing to secure independent valuations on large loans, while Aadhar charged interest before loan disbursement. HUDCO was penalized for lapses in customer risk categorization and asset management practices. These penalties, totaling INR 13.5 lakh, reflect the RBI's efforts to ensure regulatory compliance and uphold financial sector stability....
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GDA Board approves Unified Master Plan 2031 after two years of deliberation

The GDA board has approved the Unified Master Plan 2031 for Ghaziabad after nearly two years of revisions. The plan spans 33,543.1 hectares across Ghaziabad, Loni, and Modinagar/Muradnagar. With a projected population of 4.8 million by 2031, it allocates 39.8% of the area for residential development and 2.2% for commercial use. The plan features TOD zones along the 1.5 km rapid rail corridor and metro lines and includes a Special Development Area around the Duhai RRTS depot. After multiple revisions and delays, it is now set to be reviewed by the state government for final approval....
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Over 60% of stalled real estate projects opt for UP's rehabilitation package

Nearly 60% of stalled projects under the three industrial authorities in Uttar Pradesh have sought assistance from the state government's rehabilitation package, aiming to unlock the registration of over 63,000 flats within a year. As of August 2024, 93 out of 161 projects have utilized the package, contributing INR 953 crore, with an expected INR 2,250 crore to be collected. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath urged strict action against non-compliant developers, including land allotment cancellations and sealing unused flats. In Noida, 22 of 57 stalled projects opted for the package, raising INR 304.35 crore. Greater Noida and YEIDA projects have also joined, facilitating flat registrations. NAREDCO is advocating for extended relief measures due to industry challenges, including Covid-19 and environmental restrictions....
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REA Group eyes Rightmove acquisition, sparking 24% surge in shares

Earlier this month, Australia's REA Group, largely owned by News Corp, announced it is considering acquiring UK-based property portal Rightmove. This potential deal has boosted Rightmove's shares by 24%, reaching their highest value since March 2022, and positioned the company as the top gainer on the FTSE 100 index. Rightmove, valued at GBP 4.36 billion, generates most of its revenue from property listings and advertising. Analysts view the deal as a strong investment opportunity amid easing UK interest rates. REA, which has until September 30 to formalize an offer, could create a global real estate powerhouse. Despite REA's stock falling 5.3%, Rightmove remains profitable, supported by its thriving lettings business....
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Karnataka introduces 'Nambike Nakshe' scheme for faster building approvals

Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar announced the expansion of a new online building plan approval system across Bengaluru, simplifying the process for sites up to 4,000 square feet. The 'Nambike Nakshe' scheme, initially piloted in two zones, allows provisional approvals by architects or engineers, with final approval online. Shivakumar outlined plans for the repairing of damaged roads and praised BBMP efforts in flood prevention and addressed contractor protests over payments, emphasising that the government will assist within legal limits while discouraging pressure tactics. Awareness campaigns for cleanliness are also being implemented....
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Noida Authority to discuss lifting ban on Sector 150 Sports City development

The Sports City project in Noida, Sector 150, was halted in 2021 after a Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) audit highlighted several issues with the land allotment process. The concerns raised by the CAG led to the suspension of the project, which has remained on hold since then. According to officials, the Noida Authority is now reviewing the project and considering its future progress. The Noida Authority plans to discuss it in an upcoming board meeting, where a final decision may be made on whether to lift the ban and resume work on the Sports City development project....
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Raipur Commissioner demands swift action on delayed sewage treatment plants and critical development projects

The Commissioner of Raipur Municipal Corporation, Abinash Mishra, has expressed frustration with delays in the construction of three key Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs) and has directed the contracted agency to expedite the work. With trials scheduled for November and operations set to begin in December, Mishra has emphasised the urgency of these projects. He also instructed officials to closely monitor other critical developments, including the 24x7 water supply and market projects, ensuring they meet deadlines while maintaining quality and public convenience. The review meeting was attended by key officials overseeing these projects....
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DDA launches help desk for housing scheme 2024 to enhance customer support

The Delhi Development Authority (DDA) has launched its Housing Scheme 2024, with a dedicated help desk set up at its head office, Vikas Sadan, to assist prospective flat buyers. This help desk, operating on weekdays from 10 am to 6 pm, will provide guidance on scheme details, eligibility, flat specifications, pricing, amenities, and registration processes. Following instructions from Delhi Lieutenant Governor V K Saxena, the DDA aims to offer a smooth and customer-friendly experience. The new housing schemes are available at various locations, including Narela, Dwarka, Siraspur, Ramgarh, Rohini, Loknayakpuram, and Jasola....
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Allahabad HC upholds landowners' plea, orders status quo in Noida demolition case

The Allahabad High Court has directed the Noida Authority to maintain the status quo regarding a demolition notice in Wajidpur village until the petitioners' objections are resolved. The petitioners argue that the land was previously declared as abadi land and that the new notice could lead to eviction and demolition without considering their concerns. The court has instructed the Authority to address these objections within six weeks while ensuring all stakeholders are heard. This decision highlights ongoing conflicts over land use and authority jurisdiction in Noida's urban development efforts....
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Noida Authority to ask EOW to audit builders who rejected rehab deal

The Noida Authority is considering reaching out to the Economic Offences Wing (EOW) regarding developers who have not utilised the UP-government's rehabilitation package for stalled residential projects. Of 57 defaulting projects, 22 have accepted the package, which provides a two-year zero-period relief from April 2020 to March 2022. The remaining 29 developers, owing about INR 6,900 crore, are ineligible for this relief. Following recent directives from CM Yogi Adityanath, disciplinary actions will be enforced against non-compliant developers. Currently, 28 projects have recalculated dues of INR 1,020 crore, while 29 non-compliant builders face dues of INR 6,900 crore....
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NMMC cracks down on illegal constructions in Karave Village, Belapur

Despite issuing notices, individuals failed to address unauthorized constructions in Navi Mumbai's Belapur division, prompting the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation's Encroachment Department to take decisive action. Under the directives of Commissioner Dr. Kailas Shinde and guided by Dr. Rahul Gethe, demolition operations were carried out against illegal structures at House No. 842 and House No. 841/4 in Karave Village. The property owners, Mr. Satish Tandel and Mr. Parasnath R. Yadav, had continued construction despite receiving notices under Section 54 of the Maharashtra Regional and Town Planning Act, 1966. Supervised by Assistant Commissioner Shashikant Tandel, the demolition campaign involved officials, staff, and police personnel, recovering INR 50,000/- from the owners. Future anti-encroachment efforts will be intensified....
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AISECT and UNICEF launch Passport to Earning (P2E) Program to boost employment

AISECT and UNICEF have launched the Passport to Earning (P2E) program in Giridih, Jharkhand, aiming to equip women and youth with job-ready skills in digital literacy, financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and soft skills. The pilot phase successfully trained over 3,000 participants, with 1,800 women receiving targeted training and 162 securing jobs. Building on this success, the program will expand nationwide to reach 80,000 young people. Dr. Siddharth Chaturvedi of AISECT and Mr. Pallav Tiwari of UNICEF highlight the program's impact in promoting economic independence and aligning with the UN Sustainable Development Goals for inclusive growth and gender equality....
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NCDRC rules that homebuyers can seek refunds for missing promised amenities

The National Consumer Dispute Redressal Commission (NCDRC) recently ruled that homebuyers are entitled to seek refunds if the amenities promised by builders are not provided at the time of possession. This verdict follows numerous cases where developers, in a rush to meet deadlines, handed over flats without completing advertised features such as clubs, gyms, and green spaces. The ruling came in response to a complaint from a buyer of M3M Woodshire in Gurgaon, who cited significant deficiencies in the project. The NCDRC emphasised that advertised amenities must be delivered, granting the buyer a refund with interest....
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Noida Authority proposes increase in FAR to 2.5 for industrial zones

The Noida Authority is set to revise building regulations to tackle land shortages by increasing the Floor Area Ratio (FAR) from 2 to 2.5 in industrial sectors. This change, impacting plots on roads wider than 24 meters and smaller industrial sites, aims to optimize land use and support vertical growth. The new FAR regulations also extend to IT and IT-enabled services (ITES) plots. This initiative seeks to enhance industrial capacity and accommodate Noida's rapid development, balancing economic expansion with sustainable urban planning. Public feedback will shape the final amendments, marking a crucial step in Noida's growth strategy....
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Transit rent for Mumbai Metro 3 Project-Affected Persons soars 1,800% since 2017

From 2017 to 2023, transit rent for 576 project-affected persons (PAPs) from Mumbai's Girgaon-Kalbadevi area has increased over 1,800%, from INR 2.38 crore to INR 46.39 crore. This sharp rise, attributed to escalating displacement and ongoing construction of the Metro 3 line (Aqua Line), has sparked debate about the project's management. The Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation (MMRC) defends the increase, citing annual rent hikes and the growing number of displaced residents. Meanwhile, the project's total cost has surged by 61% to INR 37,276 crore. Despite these issues, the metro line aims to improve city transport, with completion expected by 2026....
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Mohali Deputy Mayor urges swift inclusion of seven villages

As the panchayat elections near, the issue of incorporating seven villages into Mohali's municipal limits resurfaces. The proposal, initially approved by the Mohali Municipal Corporation (MC) in 2021, remains unresolved. Deputy Mayor Kuljit Singh Bedi has urged the Punjab government to finalise the inclusion of villages like Balongi and Mauli Baidwan. Bedi warns that a delay could create governance confusion post-election. Inclusion would grant residents access to urban amenities and foster development. With elections approaching, swift action is deemed crucial for organised local governance and fulfilling residents' aspirations....
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Odisha government orders demolition of 191 illegal structures in Bhubaneswar

The Odisha government is ramping up efforts to combat illegal construction in Bhubaneswar, with Housing and Urban Development Minister Krushna Chandra Mohapatra announcing the demolition of 191 unauthorised buildings. A total of 491 illegal construction cases have been recorded within the Bhubaneswar Development Authority (BDA) jurisdiction, with 63 resolved and 237 pending in court. The Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) reported 1,444 illegal cases, with 993 still unresolved. The government's actions aim to enforce compliance with building laws, ensure urban safety, and promote sustainable development in the rapidly growing city....
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Karnataka High Court decision eases stamp duty burden in property transactions

The Karnataka High Court clarified that once an absolute sale deed is executed and stamped, the earlier agreement of sale no longer requires stamp duty. This ruling, by Justice Sachin Shankar Magadum, aims to streamline property transactions and reduce tax burdens on buyers and sellers. The court emphasized that the sale deed, once in place, overrides previous agreements, making them irrelevant for stamp duty purposes. This decision, stemming from a partition suit in Haveri, enhances clarity in real estate transactions and may improve efficiency in Karnataka's property market by discouraging unnecessary penalties....
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