Bridging generations: Maharashtra's 2025 housing policy

The Maharashtra State Housing Policy – 2025, entitled "Majhe Ghar, Majha Adhikar" (My Home, My Right), represents a pivotal moment in the state's urban and rural development. This comprehensive policy is the first major update in nearly two decades, aiming to address the evolving housing needs of its rapidly urbanising population. With an ambitious goal to construct 3.5 million affordable homes by 2030, and an estimated investment of INR 700 billion, the policy highlights the government's commitment to ensuring sustainable, safe, and environmentally friendly housing for all citizens.

The 2025 policy centers around four guiding principles:

• Affordable housing for all: Expanding affordable housing access across all income levels (economically weaker section, low-income group, and mid-income group).
   

• Inclusive development: Ensuring inclusive development through specialised housing for vulnerable and priority groups.
   

• Sustainable and resilient housing: Building climate-resilient communities through sustainable construction and green infrastructure.   
   

Beyond broader goals, the policy's strength lies in its focused approach to distinct generational housing needs. By spotlighting student housing and senior living, we aim to highlight crucial demographic realities. Providing affordable student homes cultivates future talent, while dignified senior living is essential for holistic urban planning and our growing elderly population.

Maharashtra is experiencing one of India's highest migration rates; however, the current housing infrastructure falls significantly short of demand. Available accommodation can serve only approximately 45-50% of migrant students, creating both a pressing challenges and a substantial development opportunity. Notably, student housing demonstrates potential for higher rental yields compared to traditional office and commercial spaces.

The policy transforms student housing by mandating that all new developments be offered exclusively on a rental basis, ensuring accessibility. Educational hubs like Pune, Mumbai, and Nashik will benefit from purpose-built accommodation near universities, supported by a comprehensive ecosystem of incentives:
 

• Developers receive mixed-use allowances, flexible payment structures, and tax benefits including a 1% GST (Goods and Service Tax) cap and waived stamp duties
  
  
• Operators (universities, colleges, NGOs, trusts) enjoy decade-long property tax reductions and performance-based rewards
  
  
• Sustainability initiatives receive support through solar subsidies and innovation grants

According to the 2011 census, the elderly population (aged 60 and above) stands at 10% of Maharashtra's population, exceeding the national average of 8.6%. This is projected to reach 15% within a decade. Responding to this demographic shift, the policy formally establishes "Senior Citizen Housing" as a distinct building category within the UDCPR (Unified Development Control and Promotion Regulations) framework.

These developments require a minimum plot area of 3,000 sqm, 12-metre-wide roads, and integration into residential and green zones to foster community inclusion. Essential amenities include recreational areas, 24/7 ambulance services, nursing stations, and proximity to medical facilities. Financial incentives make these projects viable:
 

• Developers receive technology grants of INR500/sqm, solar subsidies, and 1% goods and services tax (GST) cap
  
  
• Buyers benefit from reduced property taxes and nominal stamp duty of INR 1,000

This forward-thinking policy addresses housing needs across generations—from students building their futures to seniors enjoying dignified retirement years. By creating targeted incentives, implementing regulatory reforms, and emphasising sustainability, Maharashtra establishes itself as a leader in responsive urban development.

As implementation begins, the true measure of success will be whether these ambitious frameworks translate into tangible improvements in housing accessibility, affordability, and quality for Maharashtra's approximately 120 million citizens across all life stages.