Need low-cost housing? Here's how the SPARSH 2.0 scheme works

NEW DELHI: Looking for affordable accommodation? The government has launched a new housing initiative aimed at expanding low-cost rental homes for workers and economically weaker sections by encouraging government agencies and public sector bodies to build or convert residential complexes into affordable rental housing units.

The 'Scheme for Promotion of Affordable Rental Smart Housing (SPARSH 2.0)' has been launched by the Labour & Employment Department of the Union Territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu.

The initiative aims to increase the stock of affordable rental homes by encouraging government departments, public sector undertakings (PSUs), autonomous bodies and local authorities to either construct new housing complexes or convert vacant government residential units into rental accommodation.

The scheme forms part of the government's broader efforts to support the 'Housing for All' mission and create a sustainable housing ecosystem for workers employed in industries, construction sites and other sectors.

What is SPARSH 2.0?

Under the scheme, municipalities, district panchayats, PSUs and autonomous bodies are required to identify available land within their jurisdictions and develop at least one affordable rental housing complex. Authorities can either build new housing projects or utilise vacant government-owned residential properties already under their control.

The government said participating agencies can finance projects through their own resources or seek grant-in-aid support where required. The scheme is expected to contribute towards the creation of long-term affordable housing infrastructure while improving living conditions for low-income workers.

Key objectives of the scheme

According to the government, SPARSH 2.0 has been designed to support the vision of Aatma Nirbhar Bharat by creating affordable rental housing options for workers and labourers.

The scheme also seeks to encourage public and private investment in affordable housing, improve workers' quality of life, reduce financial burdens associated with housing and healthcare costs, and enhance productivity across industries by providing better living conditions.

Officials said the initiative also aligns existing Affordable Rental Housing Complex (ARHC) guidelines with the SPARSH framework.

Who can apply?

To be eligible under the scheme, applicants must be located in Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu and should either own the housing complex or be an authorised representative.

The housing project must comply with SPARSH 2.0 infrastructure norms and possess valid construction permissions or occupancy certificates. Applicants must also agree to reserve at least 66 per cent of dwelling units for beneficiaries belonging to the Economically Weaker Section (EWS) category and undertake responsibility for maintenance and waste management.

How to apply

Applications under SPARSH 2.0 are currently processed offline.

Applicants must obtain Form A prescribed under the scheme, complete the application and submit it along with supporting documents to the designated district officer appointed by the Secretary, Labour.

The nodal officer will verify the application within 30 days and may conduct technical inspections through the Associate Town Planner or other competent authorities. Successful applicants will receive a registration certificate and enter into a formal agreement with the government.

Documents required

Applicants will need to submit Aadhaar details, land ownership documents, government approvals, project proposals and construction plans. Those seeking financial assistance may also be required to provide grant-in-aid approval documents.

Officials said registrations will be reviewed annually and may be cancelled if housing complexes fail to comply with the scheme's conditions.

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