***Support the podcast, become a member: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCksnReFEAAK47cTVZBVQJrw/join   On, OoruLabs, India's premier urban issues podcast, Sathya Sankaran, host of the podcast talks to housing expert Manikandan KP on how we can fix the housing problem in cities for the people who are being increasingly priced out. We think through whose job is it to provide housing and why we are unable to solve it once and for all. This conversation delves into the complexities of housing in urban India, focusing on the challenges of affordable and low-income housing. It discusses the evolution of housing definitions, the impact of land ownership on housing accessibility, and the quality of housing as a multifaceted issue. The dialogue emphasizes the need for innovative solutions and the roles of both government and market forces in addressing housing needs. The conversation delves into the complexities of housing solutions for various income levels, emphasizing the importance of aspirations in housing quality. It discusses the challenges faced in urban housing, the innovative models that can be adopted, and the significant role of the state in ensuring adequate housing supply. The dialogue also touches on the future of housing, the impact of urbanization, and the financialization of housing as a critical issue. - Keywords housing, urban development, affordable housing, low-income housing, India, real estate, government policy, urban planning, housing quality, land ownership, housing solutions, urban housing, low-income housing, aspirations, state role, innovative models, land ownership, affordable housing, urbanization, housing supply — Takeaways The demand for housing in urban India is immense, with a projected need for 230 million units by 2047. Affordable housing definitions have evolved, reflecting changing market conditions and government policies. Low-income housing is often misrepresented; understanding the nuances is crucial for effective solutions. Land ownership significantly impacts housing affordability and accessibility in urban areas. Quality of housing encompasses more than just physical structure; it includes location and access to amenities. Government policies must adapt to the diverse needs of urban populations to effectively address housing shortages. Innovative housing solutions are emerging in low-income settlements, showcasing resilience and creativity. The narrative around housing must shift from mere provision to ensuring quality of life for residents. Understanding the socio-economic context is essential for developing effective housing policies. Collaboration between government and private sectors is vital for sustainable housing solutions. Housing solutions must cater to diverse income levels. Aspirations for better housing drive demand. Urban housing faces challenges due to high demand. Innovative models are needed to improve housing access. The state plays a crucial role in housing supply. Financialization of housing complicates accessibility. Land ownership affects housing opportunities. Urbanization increases pressure on housing markets. Long-term planning is essential for sustainable housing. Collaboration between state and private sectors is vital. —— Sound Bites "Affordable housing became a normal." "The needs for an alternate terminology." "Quality of housing is about distance." "What is the better quality house?" "We don't see large scale homelessness." "We need to supply housing for all families." "Aspirations drive the need for better housing." "Land ownership impacts housing accessibility." "Innovative models can reshape housing access." "We need to rethink urban planning for housing." "Urbanization increases the demand for housing." ——— Chapters 00:00 Understanding Housing Challenges in Urban India 03:13 Defining Affordable Housing and Its Evolution 06:05 The Complexity of Low-Income Housing 08:48 Land Ownership and I