National Statement
Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, Government of India
On the
13th Session of the World Urban Forum (WUF13)
17th May 2026, Baku, Azerbaijan
Theme: Housing the World – Safe and Resilient Cities and Communities
Hon’ble Chair, Dear Excellencies, Distinguished Delegates, Ladies and Gentlemen,
At the outset, I extend my sincere appreciation to the Government of the Republic of Azerbaijan and UN-Habitat for convening the Thirteenth Session of the World Urban Forum. This Forum resonates deeply with India’s enduring philosophy of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” - One Earth, One Family, One Future, reinforcing our collective commitment to inclusive, resilient and sustainable urbanization.
India stands at a defining moment in its urban transformation. Over the next three decades, one of the world’s largest and most complex urban systems consisting of 500 million citizens will evolve to meet the needs and aspirations of nearly one billion urban residents. This transition presents challenges of unprecedented scale, but also historic opportunities to advance inclusive, resilient, and sustainable development.
We believe that housing is not merely a sectoral priority. It is the foundation of social inclusion, economic opportunity and climate resilience, and a critical driver for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. Thus, India’s approach to urbanization is anchored in the principles of the New Urban Agenda.
Excellencies and Distinguished Delegates,
Over the past decade, India has been at the forefront through citizen-centric, mission-driven approach. We are implementing large‑scale and integrated programmes for affordable housing, inclusive infrastructure, Water & Sanitation, climate adaptation and mitigation, digital public infrastructure, renewable energy, circular economy practices, and sustainable livelihoods.
Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana - Urban (PMAY-U) stands out as a flagship example of effective institutional delivery aimed at fulfilling the “Housing for All” vision. With over 12 million sanctioned houses, more than 90 percent allotted for women, the mission is transforming the lives of millions and advancing both SDG 5 and SDG 11.
PMAY-U 2.0 builds on a foundation of robust planning, cooperative federalism and digital governance tools to ensure transparency and accountability. The program focuses on ecosystem-based urban housing solutions and rental models.
Excellencies and Distinguished Delegates,
Approximately 100 thousandrental housingunits have been sanctioned to support urban migrants and workers. Close to 8 million street vendors have been integrated into formal finance through PM SVANidhi. Nearly 1.5 million individuals have received skill training under the National Urban Livelihood Mission.
Over 1,000 km of metro rail networks is enhancing mobility and productivity across major cities. Digital Public Infrastructure is transforming urban governance with online building permissions, GIS-based planning and transparent property taxation.
The recently launched Urban Challenge Fund represents a shift to market-linked, reform-driven and outcome-oriented urban financing. With Central Assistance of USD 10 billion, it is designed to catalyse nearly USD 40 billion (₹4 lakh crore) of investment.
Excellencies and Distinguished Delegates,
India is advancing sustainable urban systems under the New Urban Agenda. The Technology & Innovation Sub-Mission (TISM) of Housing for All promotes green and innovative construction technologies practices. The AMRUT Mission focuses on water security and circularity. The Swachh Bharat Mission has improved waste processing.
India’s Mission LiFE promotes sustainable lifestyles and behavioural change as a cornerstone of climate action. Climate-resilient urban planning, and nature-based solutions, will remain central to our efforts.
India acknowledges that global commitments require collective action. Strengthened multilateralism and enhanced South-South cooperation are crucial for addressing challenges world is facing.
India calls for renewed global partnerships to advance people-centered, low-carbon and resilient urban development.
As India advances toward its national vision of resilient, inclusive and developed nation by 2047, we understand that the scale of India’s urban transformation has significant implications beyond our borders and can contribute meaningfully to shape global urban outcomes.
India is committed to learning from global best practices while sharing its experiences and scalable solutions.
Thank you.
