The Institute for Housing and Urban Development Studies (IHS) and the Housing and Urban Development Corporation Ltd (HUDCO) have renewed their collaboration through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). Maartje van Eerd, Senior Specialist in Housing and Social Development, signed the MoU on behalf of IHS, marking a commitment to addressing urban challenges in India, focusing on sustainable housing, infrastructure, and mobility.
From the Human Settlement Management Institute (HSMI) to an MoU
HUDCO, a leading techno-financing agency, has played a key role in financing and promoting housing and urban infrastructure projects across India. The organisation supports both public and private sector initiatives, contributing to slum redevelopment, affordable housing, urban infrastructure, township development, and heritage conservation. Additionally, HUDCO's research and training institute, the Human Settlement Management Institute (HSMI), was essential in capacity building and knowledge dissemination for urban development stakeholders.
The relationship between IHS and HUDCO dates back to the 1980s when the two organisations jointly established HSMI. During this period, several IHS staff members worked alongside local professionals to conduct research and deliver capacity-building programmes to strengthen the housing sector in India. Over the years, this collaboration has seen varying levels of intensity. Hence, the signing of the MoU signifies a shared commitment to working together to foster innovation and sustainability in India's urban landscape. The partnership will combine research, training, and policy advisory activities to equip urban professionals and policymakers with the knowledge and skills required to tackle pressing urban challenges.
Key areas of collaboration
With the full support of the Honourable Secretary of the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs and the Royal Dutch Embassy in Delhi, IHS and HUDCO have identified key thematic areas for joint training and research. These include:
- Sustainable, Inclusive, and Affordable Housing;
- Low Carbon & Resilient Urban Infrastructure;
- Sustainable Urban Mobility;
- Urban & Regional Planning and Management;
- Energy-efficient and Sustainable Built Environment.
Expanding networks in India
During her visit to India, Maartje van Eerd engaged in discussions with other key stakeholders from government agencies, international organisations and academic institutions to explore further opportunities for knowledge exchange and capacity building in urban development. She gave guest lectures on housing topics at various universities around the country and attended the opening of a new Living Lab at Anna University in Chennai, a long-term partner of IHS.
