IIT Bombay's 1974 batch launches initiative to build 1 lakh homes in rural, semi-urban areas by 2034

NEW DELHI : The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay’s Class of 1974 has launched an initiative that will build around 1 lakh homes in rural and semi-urban areas across India by 2034. The project HEARTS’74 – Habitat for Everyone: Affordable, Resilient, Transformative, and Sustainable – aims to promote affordable housing in India by providing "climate-resilient, sustainable solutions tailored to the needs of underserved populations across diverse regions".

The project will use materials that are easily available and environment-friendly and will focus on building capacities within local communities to foster livelihood opportunities. The initiative, which results from decades of expertise from the alumni batch marking their 50th graduation anniversary, is one way of creating a legacy at their alma mater.

Raj Melville, an alumnus from the Class of 1974, IIT Bombay said: “The role of alumni insupporting their alma mater is pivotal to the growth and prosperity of both the institution and the communities we serve. This initiative is a reflection of our collective responsibility to give back to society, and we are proud to leverage our IIT Bombay education to drive this critical mission forward. HEARTS’74 is not just about providing homes; it’s about creating a sustainable future for those who need it the most".

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Affordable housing goals

Here's what IIT Bombay's 1974 batch plans for the HEARTS'74 project:

• To design and demonstrate affordable housing by creating scalable housing models that can be customised to fulfill beneficiary preferences across regions
• The initiative aims to build around 1,00,000 homes by 2034, resilient homes for rural areas by the end of the 10th year.
• Focusing on economic feasibility, sustainability, and the durability of housing materials through research and development.
• Empowering local communities by developing skills and creating job opportunities.

HEARTS’74 Funds

As per the IIT Bombay statement, HEARTS’74 is designed to offer affordable housing solutions that are cost-effective, environment-friendly, and resilient to natural disasters, addressing the needs of millions of people in rural and semi-urban areas.

“The batch has pledged a total of Rs 14 crore to IIT Bombay and has already raised Rs 10 crore with Rs 8 crore of the total pledge specifically dedicated towards the HEARTS’74 project.” the IIT Bombay statement adds.

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“HEARTS’74 will utilize cutting-edge technologies to drive its mission forward, including Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA), which ensures beneficiaries and key stakeholders are integral to the planning and execution of the project.” the IIT Bombay statement added.

Additionally, a custom design tool is also available in the form of an application and website allowing beneficiaries to tailor housing models as per their preferences.