COMING UP RAJIV GANDHI AWAAS YOJANA

Housing set to welcome PEs“PE funds are keen to park their investments in
Guidelines In The Works To Invite Fundsthe Yojana....Besides, the government cannot
The urban development ministry is also in talks withgenerate resources for this on its own,” he said.
the World Bank for a $5-billion loan under theAs per IDFC Projects Equity managing director Sachin
Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal MissionJohri, a large number of PE funds are willing to take
(JNNURM) for improving urban infrastructure, thestake in such projects to the extent of 40-50%.
minister said.Enumerating benefit of participation of private equity
The World Bank loan requested under the JNNURM iscompanies in the scheme, Mr Roy said these funds
expected to be finalized “shortly” afterwill also provide expertise in valuing infrastructure
authorities have vetted the attached conditionality,projects, advise in fine-tuning business models, assist
he said.in toning up operational efficiencies and strengthen
“The ministry, in consultation with the Planningcorporate governance.
Commission, is currently processing guidelines toThe government is preparing guidelines for the
ensure PEs’ participation in the Yojana,” heparticipation of private equity (PE) funds in the
said at a national conclave on private equity inhousing sector under the Rajiv Gandhi Awaas Yojana,
infrastructure organized by Assocham.minister of state for urban development Saugata
The government wants to harness private funds toRoy said.
provide affordable housing to millions of householdsThe scheme aims to make a slum free India in five
under the scheme, he added.years with construction of over 10 lakh houses.