Hindu Editorial Analysis : 23-February-2024

In the recent Interim Budget 2024, the Finance Minister announced exciting plans for housing in India. The government will construct two crore additional houses over the next five years under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana Gramin (PMAY-G). A new housing scheme aimed at the middle class is also set to launch. This ambitious plan aims to provide affordable housing to millions.

Importance of Modern Technologies

A key part of the PMAY mission is the introduction of Light House Projects (LHPs). These projects are part of the Global Housing Technology Challenge (GHTC) and are being developed in six different states. The LHPs focus on using modern technologies to achieve several important goals:

  • Reduce Construction Time: By using innovative processes, houses can be built more quickly.
  • Enhance Resilience: The houses will be designed to withstand various environmental challenges.
  • Make Housing Affordable: Utilizing advanced construction techniques helps lower costs.

One of the innovative technologies being used is Mivan, which employs advanced aluminum formwork. This method is beneficial because:

  • It is recyclable and reusable.
  • It provides faster construction compared to traditional methods.
  • It has a lower environmental impact due to reduced waste during construction.

Challenges Faced

Despite the advancements, there are significant challenges in the housing sector:

  • High Energy Use: Many buildings use excessive cement and steel, leading to heat gain and increased reliance on air conditioning.
  • Rising Electricity Consumption: The need for cooling appliances raises electricity usage, contributing to higher greenhouse gas emissions.
  • Inefficient Appliances: Many people opt for lower-efficiency appliances due to cost, further increasing energy consumption.
  • Lack of Awareness: End-users often do not recognize the benefits of passive design, which can lead to better energy efficiency.

The housing value chain involves various stakeholders, such as architects, engineers, and contractors, each with their own priorities. This complicates the promotion of sustainable practices.

Solutions for Sustainable Housing

To address these issues, implementing strict guidelines in building codes is essential. The Eco Niwas Samhita initiative is a prime example, directing focus on building design that suits specific climate zones. This can help create thermally comfortable indoor environments.

A notable success story is the Smart Ghar III project in Rajkot, part of the PMAY’s Untenable Slum Redevelopment project. This initiative demonstrates how passive design can lead to improved indoor thermal comfort, showcasing the potential for sustainable housing solutions in India.

In conclusion, the government’s plans, supported by modern technologies, aim to transform housing in India. While challenges exist, embracing innovative solutions can pave the way for a sustainable and comfortable future for all.

Why In News

In the Interim Budget 2024, the Finance Minister announced the construction of two crore additional houses over the next five years under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana Gramin (PMAY-G) and the introduction of a new housing scheme for the middle class, aiming to provide affordable housing solutions to millions and stimulate economic growth in the construction sector.

MCQs about Modern Technologies

  1. What is the primary goal of the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana Gramin (PMAY-G)?
    A. To promote urban housing
    B. To construct two crore additional houses in rural areas
    C. To provide loans for housing construction
    D. To encourage private housing development
    Correct Answer: B. To construct two crore additional houses in rural areas
    Explanation: The PMAY-G specifically focuses on constructing affordable housing in rural areas, as highlighted in the Interim Budget 2024 announcement.
  2. Which innovative construction technology mentioned in the essay uses advanced aluminum formwork?
    A. Eco Niwas Samhita
    B. Light House Projects (LHPs)
    C. Mivan
    D. Smart Ghar III
    Correct Answer: C. Mivan
    Explanation: Mivan technology utilizes advanced aluminum formwork, making it recyclable and reusable, which enhances construction efficiency and reduces environmental impact.
  3. What challenge is associated with the extensive use of cement and steel in building construction?
    A. Increased construction costs
    B. Higher energy consumption due to cooling needs
    C. Improved structural resilience
    D. Faster building times
    Correct Answer: B. Higher energy consumption due to cooling needs
    Explanation: The extensive use of materials like cement and steel without proper insulation leads to increased heat gain, prompting occupants to rely more on cooling appliances, thus raising electricity consumption.
  4. What initiative directs attention towards refining building envelope characteristics for specific climate zones?
    A. PMAY-G
    B. Mivan
    C. Eco Niwas Samhita
    D. Smart Ghar III
    Correct Answer: C. Eco Niwas Samhita
    Explanation: The Eco Niwas Samhita initiative focuses on enhancing building designs to suit various climate zones, promoting energy efficiency and thermal comfort in housing.

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