Nitin Gadkari on Saturday stressed that construction designs must align with the purchasing power of citizens, asserting that the country’s most pressing requirement today is low-cost and affordable housing.

Addressing the ‘Design Showcase and Confluence 3.0’ organised by the Indian Institute of Interior Designers in Nagpur, the Union minister highlighted the critical role of the real estate sector in India’s economic growth.

“Real estate is among the fastest growing sectors, which will create maximum jobs. It gives most revenue to states and Centre by way of GST. Construction designs should be planned considering the purchasing power of people. Maximum need is of low cost and affordable housing,” Gadkari said.

He underlined that while the construction industry continues to expand rapidly, design innovation must focus on affordability and practicality to address housing shortages, particularly for middle- and lower-income groups.

Gadkari noted that the real estate sector not only generates substantial employment but also contributes significantly to government revenues through Goods and Services Tax (GST). He emphasised that architects, interior designers and developers have a crucial responsibility in shaping cost-effective and sustainable housing solutions.

The minister’s remarks come at a time when urbanisation and rising property prices are increasing demand for affordable housing across India, prompting policymakers and industry stakeholders to explore innovative and economical construction models.