These recommendations were the conclusion of a workshop on credit availability of urban poor for shelter and income generation jointly organised by Hudco and the ministry of urban affairs.
It suggested that housing credit given by Hudco should reach the urban poor and unorganised groups. While NGOs are an appropriate interface between the Corporation and the intended parties, it has been felt that this is not the only channel.
This should be broadbased to cover community-based organisations (CBO), community development societies promoted under UBSP projects, self-help groups as well as specialised institutions like SEWA Bank.
It was also stated that credit for the shelter sector should cover a flexible basket of options for repairs, renewal, upgradation, extension and also new construction. The possibility of opening credit for environmental improvement, plotted development and low cost sanitation will also be looked into on a case-to-case basis and on merits. On the basis of the discussions at the workshop, Hudco has also many other recommendations.
ed that credit should be extended for income generation schemes for urban poor with appropriate linkages with employment generation and poverty alleviation measures either individually or with shelter support schemes.
Hudco has also urged the government to give incentives through tax exemptions to encourage investment and financial deposits for its schemes for the urban poor. Similarly, it should be given tax exemption in view of the important role played for serving the disadvantaged groups.
Hudco has asked for financial resources at low cost from the government, NHB and other nodal financial institutions and international financial institutions.
