2nd Jan 2025  Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India G Square Realtors hosted a spectacular display of corporate sportsmanship at the G Square Lubber Pandhu Corporate Cricket Tournament, held at their prestigious G Square World project in Kovaipudur on December 30, 2024. The tournament brought together 30 teams from diverse sectors, including IT, banking, and corporate houses, making it a vibrant event filled with competitive energy.

The participating teams included notable corporate companies such as Piramal Finance, HDFC Sales Pvt. Ltd., VVDN, Dream XI, Technoturf, IDFC First Bharat, Cholamandalam, ICICI, Texila, Nesaware, Apex On, G Square Coimbatore, Suriyan FM, Eagle Quest International India Pvt. Ltd., PACTRON, Dhux Tech, Ujjivan, OODU, 11 Warriors, Leap Green Energy, HDB, GEP Solutions, L&T, Cameron, AgencyFlow India Pvt. Ltd., AKG Kinathukadavu, Cora Health, Corporate Cricketer Club, and Pitch Burners. The diversity of teams brought a unique blend of talent, making the tournament a thrilling experience for players and spectators alike.

This Corporate Cricket Tournament is supported by Suriyan FM as the official radio partner, the tournament culminated with a nail-biting final between Pitch Burners and VVDN, with Pitch Burners emerging victorious. The winner Pitch Burners received a cash prize of Rs. 50,000 along with a trophy, while the runners-up, VVDN, were awarded Rs. 25,000 and a trophy.

Speaking about the event, Mr. Bala Ramajeyam, Managing Director of G Square, said, “The G Square Lubber Pandhu Corporate Cricket Tournament has been a resounding success, bringing together talented teams from diverse industries and showcasing the true spirit of sportsmanship. At G Square, we are proud to host such vibrant events that foster camaraderie and community engagement, reflecting our commitment to building more than just spaces – we are creating opportunities for people to connect and thrive.”

The G Square Lubber Pandhu Corporate Cricket Tournament kicked off at G Square World, Kovaipudur, a premium residential and commercial villa plot community that served as the perfect venue for this grand event. Spanning 700 acres, it is Tamil Nadu’s first and only project of this scale. Strategically located next to CS Academy, G Square World boasts Tamil Nadu’s first six-themed secured villa plot community. Its cooler climate, with temperatures consistently 6 degree C lower than the city average, adds to its appeal. With the upcoming Western Ring Road (WRR) promising tremendous growth potential, the area is poised for significant appreciation. Additionally, the project offers prime accessibility, being surrounded by some of the best educational institutions in Coimbatore.

Community Engagement and Sporting Spirit

The G Square Lubber Pandhu Corporate Cricket Tournament successfully fostered a sense of community while highlighting the spirit of sportsmanship. G Square Realtors extends its gratitude to all participating teams, supporters, and Suriyan FM – The official radio partner, whose collaboration made this event a grand success.

2nd Jan 2025  Pune, Maharashtra, India Many potential borrowers worry about their credit score when applying for an instant loan. This concern often arises because a lower credit score can impact the chances of loan approval or result in higher interest rates. A lower credit score may signal a higher risk to lenders, leading to higher interest rates, or even rejections in some cases.

With the OneScore app, customers can check and track their credit score on the go. With lifetime-free credit reports and scores from both CIBIL and Experian, customers are offered a spam-free, ad-free platform to regularly monitor and improve their score according to their goals. What’s more, customers also get access to an instant loan of up to Rs. 5 Lakh right on the OneScore app.

Instant Loans and Their Uses

Instant loans provide quick access to funds with minimal paperwork and zero collateral. Processed within hours, they offer a fast solution for various financial needs. Prior to finalising the lender, borrowers should review loan terms, interest rates and repayment schedules to ensure the loan suits their financial situation.

Here are a few reasons why these loans are in high demand:

• Fast processing and minimal paperwork, enabling quicker access to funds
• Lower interest rates compared to credit cards, making them a more cost-effective option for those with good credit scores
• Quick disbursals, often within hours, for urgent needs like medical expenses or home/vehicle repairs
• Fixed monthly repayments and flexible terms to help manage financial obligations
• No requirement of collateral, making the borrowing process faster and less stressful
• Borrowers have the flexibility to choose their borrowing amount, avoiding the risk of borrowing more or less than required

Important Considerations

Here are a few things borrowers should be careful about while opting for an instant personal loan:

• Credit Score Impact

Timely repayments can improve a borrower’s credit score. However, missed payments may cause a dip, affecting future borrowing opportunities. Hence it’s important for borrowers to stay consistent with timely payments.

• Interest Rates

Interest rates for instant loans typically range from 10% to 20%, reflecting their unsecured nature and quick disbursal.

• EMIs

Loans are repaid through monthly instalments, which are typically auto-debited from the borrower’s account to prevent missed payments. Hence, borrowers should ensure their auto-debit is activated so that they never miss on their EMI payments.

• Usage

These loans provide the flexibility to use the funds as needed, without restrictions.

• Prepayment Terms

While many lenders allow early repayment, some may impose penalties. Borrowers should review the terms if they plan to repay the loan early.

• Additional Charges

Borrowers should be aware of additional fees, such as processing, late payment and prepayment charges.

8 Ways to Utilise a Rs. 5 Lakh Loan from OneScore App

There are several reasons why borrowers apply for a personal loan online. Here are 8 ways in which customers can use the Rs. 5 Lakh loan from OneScore App

Wedding Expenses

Borrowers can use these funds to supplement various wedding-related costs, including:

• Venue
• Catering
• Decorations
• Wedding attire (dresses, suits, accessories)
• Photography and videography
• Entertainment (DJ, live music)
• Invitations
• Wedding favours
• Transportation (for the couple or guests)
• Makeup and hairstyling
• Event planning services
• Floral arrangements

They can thus enjoy their special day without financial strain.

Vehicle Purchase

Instant loans provide quick funds for purchasing a vehicle, allowing repayment through affordable instalments.

Home Renovations

These loans can finance home improvements, enabling upgrades to meet personal needs.

Education Costs

Customers can use these funds to help cover various study-related expenses, making higher education more accessible. Some of the common costs include:

• Tuition fees
• Accommodation and hostel charges
• Books and study materials
• Online course fees
• Laboratory or practical fees
• Examination fees
• Transportation costs (to and from campus)
• College/university registration fees
• Laptop or technology purchases
• Miscellaneous academic supplies
• Boarding and lodging expenses (if studying abroad)

Vacation Funding

Instant personal loans allow customers to fund their holidays, making travel possible without the stress of large upfront expenses. Here are a few common costs associated with vacation plans:

• Airfare or travel tickets
• Accommodation (hotel, resorts)
• Transportation (local travel, taxis, rentals)
• Food and dining expenses
• Sightseeing tours and activities
• Travel insurance
• Visa and passport fees
• Shopping and souvenirs
• Spa or wellness treatments

Medical Expenses

These loans can cover medical treatments or elective surgeries, ensuring that customers can receive timely care when needed.

Home Down Payment

Bridging the gap for a home down payment is now easier than ever. Customers can achieve homeownership despite a lack of sufficient savings for a down payment.

Technology Upgrade

Customers can use these funds to finance the purchase of new gadgets or upgrade their existing ones. Thus, staying current with the latest technology is now possible without straining their budget.

Instant personal loans provide a flexible and efficient solution for those needing funds. With minimal paperwork, quick disbursement and no collateral, they are growing in popularity. Using the OneScore app, customers can track and improve their credit scores while accessing loans up to Rs. 5 Lakh.

Before applying, borrowers should review loan terms, interest rates and repayment plans. They should ensure that these factors align with their financial situation. By making informed decisions, borrowers can use these loans responsibly to manage expenses while maintaining their long-term financial goals.

NCR, 30 December 2024: Breaking the stereotype, RG Group has completed construction and formalities of another phase of RG Luxury Homes and obtained the Occupancy Certificate (O.C) for towers D, E and F from competent authorities under the monitoring of IRP (Insolvency Resolution Professional). The group is all set to offer possession and hand over the keys to 600 flat owners. Last year the group obtained OC in A, B, C and M towers comprising 850 units. The project is located in Sector-16B in the Greater Noida West, near Ek Murti Chowk in Uttar Pradesh.

RG Group is gearing up to offer possession of units and commence the process of handover in these units. As a breakthrough, RG Luxury Homes is the first project in Gautam Buddha Nagar to receive an OC after securing an order of Reverse Insolvency from NCLT and completing a stuck project under the supervision of IRP (Interim Resolution Professional).

The project is spread over 18.5 acres having the biggest landscape podium and world-class amenities to its allottees, RG Group’s RG Luxury Homes has achieved OC of 7 towers out of 9 which went under insolvency. The rest of the towers and project is under construction and will be delivered in different phases. Mainly, phase 1 of the project was affected due to proceedings in NCLT since September 2019 which has approximately 1918 units.

As per the process, an IRP was appointed around July 2021 for the revival of the project which was a massive task at that moment. During the process, the promoter expressed his willingness to complete the project and presented a very robust revival plan with the inclusion of finance and time-bound targets. The plan was well supported by all the stakeholders, and allottees, including financial institutions, Greater Noida authority and NCLT-appointed IRP.

In a concise span of three months, around October 2021, RG Group commenced the remaining construction and development work of the project again under the stringent supervision of all stakeholders and IRP, resulting in the completion of a stalled project.

Himanshu Garg, Director, of RG Group said, “Securing the Occupancy Certificate (O.C) of another 3 towers of RG Luxury Homes marks an important milestone for us. Now, we have OC of 7 towers comprising 1450 units and we are extending a warm welcome to our esteemed customers as they embark on their journey to a new experience. It is a testament to our hard work, dedication, and most importantly our willingness to complete the project at any cost that offers a modern-day living. Very soon remaining 460 units of phase 1 will be delivered.”

Mr Manoj Kulshrestha, IRP, said, “Looking at the present scenario of real estate projects hitting NCLT and prolonged resolution process, resolution of RG Luxury Homes was a challenging task in the certain period. But yes, this has created a history in the real estate sector and established a benchmark for others too.”

The IRP further mentioned that to complete the project as per the submitted plan, the promoters willingly sold their personal assets, collaborated with financial institutions and most importantly maintained the faith of the customers in the quickly changing working structure without compromising the quality of construction.

The group’s success can be attributed to its deep understanding of customers and focus on providing practical homes. The company has differentiated itself by incorporating distinctive designs to create an environment where the residents can actively participate, preserve, and connect with the green landscapes around them. The consistent effort to complete the project despite facing insolvency, arranging funds, and maintaining customer trust is a testament to the consumers.

Saurabh Jain, Advocate said “Reverse-CIRP which started with this case has proved to be a great success for real estate projects where the biggest sufferers are homebuyers. Though there were few hurdles initially, as IBC does not provide any specific provision for completion of the project by the promoter, however, looking at the kind of difficulties that the homebuyers had to face in the normal CIRP including but not limited to the uncertainty of completion of project, additional monetary demand by new resolution applicant, quality of construction or facilities being actually given vis-à-vis what is assured under BBA etc., Hon’ble NCLAT took the initiative to devise this unique mechanism for adequate redressal of all issues pertaining to real estate project where the homebuyers have invested their life time savings for their dream home.

Mr. Jain further says, Reverse-CIRP is a win-win for every stakeholder of the corporate which is inreal estate sector. It is about time that reverse insolvency process is incorporated as the first and foremost option for resolution under IBC for any corporate dealing with real estate project as the same would not only save the valuable time for the stakeholders as well as for Tribunals/Courts, but also ensures maximum benefit to every stakeholder as compared to normal CIRP where the financial creditors have to forgo a large portion of their interest in the form of haircut and the operational creditors including the statutory authorities are usually left with nothing or negligible receivable against their actual claims towards the corporate debtor.

Kumar Mihir, advocate for the IRP in the Supreme Court says,” Thanks to the proactive approach of SC and NCLAT, this project has seen the light of the day. This hopefully will be an example that real estate projects can be revived if all stakeholders work with an open mind and have a collective approach to find the solution instead of just indulging in a blame game.

National, December 27, 2024: Knight Frank India, in its proprietary report, Affordability Index, cited that home affordability has remained favourable for homebuyers in 2024 as interest rates have stayed relatively steady since the end of 2023. According to the Index, Ahmedabad is the most affordable housing market among the top eight cities, with an affordability ratio of 20%, followed by Pune at 23% and Kolkata at 24%. Mumbai was the only city to exceed the affordability threshold, standing marginally higher at 50%, albeit affordability has improved. Knight Frank India’s Affordability Index tracks the EMI (Equated Monthly Instalment) to income ratio for an average household. Home affordability witnessed steady improvement from 2010 to 2021 across the eight leading cities of India, especially during the pandemic when the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) reduced the policy repo rate (REPO) to decadal lows. However, the RBI raised the REPO rate by 250 basis points (bps) over nine months starting May 2022 to tackle high inflation, thus affecting affordability across cities in 2022.

Since February 2023, however REPO rate has remained unchanged, while income has seen healthy growth which has helped offset rising home prices and relatively high interest rates, supporting affordability. Housing demand has grown at an annualised rate of 23% since 2020 and is expected to scale multi-year highs in 2024. The stable interest rate scenario is likely to persist in the near term, as the India’s economy remains on a healthy growth trajectory.

Affordability Index of leading eight cities of India

City		EMI to Income Ratio
	2010	2019	2020	2021	2022	2023	2024
Mumbai	93%	67%	61%	52%	53%	51%	50%
NCR	53%	34%	38%	28%	29%	27%	27%
Bengaluru	48%	32%	28%	26%	27%	26%	27%
Pune	39%	29%	26%	24%	25%	24%	23%
Chennai	51%	30%	26%	24%	27%	25%	25%
Hyderabad	47%	34%	31%	28%	30%	30%	30%
Kolkata	45%	32%	30%	25%	25%	24%	24%
Ahmedabad	46%	25%	24%	20%	22%	21%	20%

Shishir Baijal, Chairman and Managing Director, Knight Frank India said “Affordability plays a crucial role in sustaining homebuyer demand and driving sales, which significantly contribute to the country’s economic growth. While property prices have seen a considerable rise, the steady increase in income levels has helped individuals maintain the financial confidence needed to invest in properties. As incomes grow and the economy strengthens, end-users are more inclined to make long-term financial commitments toward asset creation. With the RBI projecting a healthy 6.6% GDP growth for FY 2025 and a stable interest rate environment, affordability levels are expected to continue supporting homebuyer demand in 2025.”

The COVID-19 pandemic became a catalyst for the residential real estate market, triggering a recalibration of both property prices and lending rates that significantly boosted demand. This residential sales momentum has persisted, supported by factors such as effective inflation control, and strong economic growth and changing preference for home ownership. All markets have shown improved or stable affordability, leading to sustained demand for homes. The pandemic has thus instilled an enduring shift in homebuyers’ sentiments, keeping demand buoyant.

In Mumbai, the affordability index improved by 17 percentage points, moving from 67% in 2019 to 50% in 2024. Affordability has reduced in Bengaluru, albeit marginally, compared to last year with households now expected to pay 27% of towards home purchases up from 26% in 2023. This is largely due to the sharp rise in residential prices over the past year, which has put pressure on affordability. While affordability has come down marginally, it is still well within the affordability threshold of 50%, over which a city’s residential market is deemed unaffordable. The enduring shift in homebuyers’ preferences and sentiments since the pandemic has kept demand resilient and the residential market buoyant.

By-Atish Saxena, CEO, Atmosphere – Sarvottam Hill Town

With fast-paced lives in urban life, owning a peaceful, serene retreat amidst nature is what many Indian homebuyers find to be their dream. Rises in demand for the holiday homes or second home in hill stations and wellness destination have seen an uptrend in recent years. Aspirations of living, lifestyle upgrade and investment potential have fueled the requirement. Amongst all these emerging locations, Rishikesh has been the newest hotspot for attracting buyers through the metropolitan hubs like Delhi-NCR.

The Surge in Demand for Holiday Homes
Second homes have changed from being a luxury investment to an everyday lifestyle asset. The COVID-19 pandemic proved to be a catalyst since it compelled homebuyers to reevaluate their preferences. As remote working makes flexible lifestyles possible, the need for a holiday home that can serve as both a vacation retreat and a productive space has become a widely popular choice.

Holiday home demand in India has reportedly increased by 15-20% in 2024 compared to pre-pandemic levels, according to a recent report by Anarock Property Consultants. In fact, locations that can be reached by driving, such as Rishikesh, Nainital, and Kasauli, have seen a continuous flow of buyers. Delhi-NCR investors have, more than ever, found themselves leading the pack for Rishikesh, which encompasses nature, spirituality, and the modern world.

Why Rishikesh is the First Priority Second Home
Rishikesh is a perfect blend of the spiritual rejuvenation and peaceful nature of the Himalayas at the foot of this range along the banks of the Ganges. For quite a few reasons, Rishikesh has been the preferred destination for a second home:

• Proximity to Delhi-NCR: It is hardly a 5-6 hours’ drive from Delhi; hence, it becomes quite an accessible retreat for most urbanites who need serenity and fresh air in the absence of too many miles.

• Spiritual and Wellness Appeal: Wellness tourism and wellness itself – be it yoga, meditation, or Ayurveda – is in. This has made the holistic well-being-seeking buyer turn to Rishikesh. Developers are inducting wellness features like meditation zones, spas, and organic farming in their projects.

• Infrastructure Development: Delhi-Dehradun Expressway has improved connectivity to Rishikesh and further reduced travel time. There is expansion in air travel options from Jolly Grant Airport. This has increased the attraction of Rishikesh as a second home destination.

• Investment Potential: With appreciation in property prices by 12-15% every year, the city promises a great return on investment. Holiday homes in the city are also giving very high rental yields with tourist and wellness seekers arriving here.

Top Developers Tap into the Holiday Home Market
Following these developments, several key property developers have turned attention toward curating holiday homes located at desirable locales, particularly like Rishikesh, so the house developed provides an absolute haven which aligns well with what every contemporary buyer needs-from sheer opulence, environment and comfortable dwellings.

• Luxury Villas and Retreats: Developers are promoting premium villas and cottages offering a panoramic view of the Ganges and hills. Amenities like an infinity pool, wellness center, and a landscape garden are becoming a norm for projects for a resort-like experience.

• Eco-friendly Design: Environmental considerations have led to buyers focusing more on eco-friendly houses and the developers are thus building their projects with solar power and rainwater harvesting and adopting more sustainable construction techniques.

• Rental Opportunities: An increasing number of holiday home buyers treat their property as an investment and source of income. Airbnb and Booking.com allow owners to let out their houses to tourists. It’s one more stream of revenue from a short-term rental yield in Rishikesh, ranging between 6% to 8% annual return.

Buyer Profiles: Who’s Investing in Second Homes?
The profile of the holiday home buyer has become far more diverse:

• Urban Professionals: Young professionals and mid-management people from Delhi-NCR are investing in holiday homes, both for leisure and as a place to work from.

• High Networth Individuals: High Networth Individuals use holiday homes as a symbol of status and as part of luxury lifestyle, with preference toward exclusive locations.

• NRIs: Non-Resident Indians also look for such market as investment opportunities as they look to have an emotional and sentimental attachment with their ‘second home’ in India.

Key Trends in Holiday Home Development
• Workation Homes: Developers are combining workspaces with vacation homes. These can be high-speed internet, study nooks, and co-working lounges for remote professionals.

• Wellness-Centric Communities: Projects now emphasize holistic living through yoga decks, wellness spas, organic gardens, and proximity to nature trails, appealing to health-conscious buyers.

• Smart Homes: Smart home technology, which encompasses everything from automation of lighting to security and energy management systems, is now the norm for high-end holiday homes.

• Community Living: Many second-home projects are now integrating community-focused spaces that foster social interaction for networking and group activities by the homeowners.

Investment Outlook: Why Now is the Right Time
Holiday homes’ demand will grow at an average pace as homebuyers from cities are expected to seek refuge from the grinds of city life. And with expressways and regional airports now being developed, locations such as Rishikesh will experience further increases in property value.

This also means an opportunity for investors-both a personal retreat that can also be monetized as a source of rental income. With the rate of tourism in Rishikesh growing by 10-12% per annum, demand for short-term stay does not lack for anything and guarantees good occupancy for holiday homes well kept.

In summary, the concept of a holiday home has shifted from a dream that many urban buyers have long cherished to a viable and commercially profitable investment for many today. Rishikesh is emerging as a highly coveted destination for second homes given its unparalleled natural beauty, spiritual significance, and better connectivity. Developers are stepping up to meet this demand with modern, wellness-focused, and sustainable living spaces to suit discerning buyers.

As the Indian real estate market continues to grow and change, holiday homes will be the epitome of aspirational living and thus the promise of peace, profitability, and well-being in the hills for a buyer.

By-Mr. Dilip Modi, Founder & CEO of Spice Money

“2024 has been a landmark year for the fintech industry, achieving unprecedented milestones in innovation and financial inclusion. India now boasts 26 fintech unicorns, including one decacorn, with registered startups surging from 2,100 in 2021 to 10,200 in 2024 and a combined valuation of $125 billion. Payments and lending categories attracted the maximum amount of funding, accounting for 85% of capital raised, while UPI surpassed 10 billion transactions in August, underscoring its transformative impact.

Spice Money is proud to contribute to this remarkable growth with offerings like biometric banking through AEPS, assisted bill payments, cash collection, and the rollout of UPI for rural India. Our foray into MSME lending and a robust 14-lakh-strong Adhikari network has extended essential financial services to 95% of rural pin codes and 2.39 lakh villages. In 2024, we impacted over 2.5 crore rural customers monthly, fostering trust, financial accessibility, and economic empowerment across Bharat.

Looking ahead to 2025, India is on track to have approximately 150 fintech unicorns with a combined valuation projected to reach $500 billion by 2030. The industry’s future lies in driving scalable and inclusive solutions through collaboration with policymakers and public partners, fostering sustainable and impactful growth for millions across the country.

At Spice Money, we remain committed to advancing Bharat’s financial inclusion through tech-driven solutions, ensuring compliance, and enhancing fraud risk management while prioritizing sustainable and profitable growth. A supportive regulatory framework and robust public-private collaboration are essential to addressing the unique needs of rural India. With rural fintech leading India’s digital revolution, Spice Money aims to build a resilient, inclusive financial ecosystem that uplifts communities and accelerates economic progress.”

By-Mr. Pankaj Gupta, MD and CEO of Pramerica Life Insurance

“The year 2024 has been a defining period for the life insurance industry, marked by a strong emphasis on customer centricity. Regulatory advancements have not only enhanced transparency and trust but have also created avenues for sustainable growth, making the industry more robust and resilient. The revised PPHI (Protection of Policyholders’ Interests) guidelines and new surrender value regulations underscore the sector’s commitment to improving customer experience and fostering policyholder confidence.

Product preferences also saw a notable shift, with Unit-Linked Insurance Plans (ULIPs) emerging as the top choice for policyholders. This was driven by robust equity markets and the growing appeal of wealth creation through insurance. Industry has witnessed rise in New Business Premium from ticket size INR100K & above from 40% in Q1FY24 to 45% in Q1FY25. The growth is largely driven by private insurers whose share of new business from ticket size above 100K has gone up from 55% in Q1FY24 to 60% in Q1FY25 as business mix moves more towards ULIPs, highlighting a rising inclination towards products that blend financial protection with investment benefits. Improved 13-month persistency metrics further reflect the industry’s focus on offering the right products and strengthening collection mechanisms.

At Pramerica Life Insurance, 2024 has been a year of meaningful strides, marked by our commitment to sustainable growth and excellence in serving our customers and stakeholders. We have made significant strides in expanding our reach, particularly in underserved segments, supported by our strong MFI business. This aligns with our commitment to championing the regulator’s vision of ‘Insurance for All by 2047’. Looking ahead, we see immense opportunities in addressing India’s underpenetrated pensions market, currently at just 3% of GDP. With the elderly population projected to grow 2.4 times by 2050, the demand for retirement-focused solutions is expected to rise steadily. Life insurers have a critical role in bridging this gap with innovative and tailored products. As we continue to empower customers with transparent, accessible and innovative solutions, we remain steadfast in our focus on ULIPs as a key component of our product mix. Meanwhile , Bima Trinity is set to revolutionise the sector for customers and distributors alike. By leveraging these opportunities, Pramerica Life Insurance is well-positioned to enter into a new era of growth, supporting India’s journey towards comprehensive financial protection by 2047.”

By-Mr. Pradeep Aggarwal, Founder & Chairman, Signature Global (India) Ltd.

“The Indian real estate sector surged in 2024, supported by rising urbanization, shifting lifestyles, and increasing demand across affordable, mid-income, and luxury segments. Residential demand has been particularly strong, while the luxury market saw a boost from high-net-worth individuals and NRIs keen on high-end amenities in cities like Gurugram, Mumbai, and Bengaluru. Sustainability is a driving trend, with eco-friendly, energy-efficient properties gaining popularity. Valued at approximately $493 billion, the sector contributes 7.3% to India’s GDP and is the second-largest job creator after agriculture.

Looking ahead, India’s real estate market is expected to play a transformative role in the country’s ‘Viksit Bharat’ (Developed India) vision, with projections estimating the sector could reach $1.3 trillion by 2034. By 2030, housing demand is anticipated to grow to around 70 million units, driven by urban infrastructure projects, favorable policies, and a resilient economy. As infrastructure projects accelerate and the economy expands, real estate’s contribution to GDP is poised to rise, solidifying its position as a key pillar in India’s journey toward sustained economic growth and urban modernization.”

By-Mr. Aman Sarin, Director & Chief Executive Officer, Anant Raj Limited

The year 2024 witnessed strong momentum in the Housing sector, with the luxury and ultra-luxury segments taking center stage. Cities like MMR and Gurugram-NCR saw a surge in demand for high-end properties priced above ₹5 crore, driven by an increasing number of prospective buyers seeking premium living spaces.

Looking ahead to 2025, we expect this strong demand to continue and growth across all housing segments, however, with limited supply. Key factors supporting this positive outlook include India’s robust economic growth, stable interest rate, improved consumer confidence, and the dominance of reputable developers capturing significant market share.

Additionally, the RBI’s recent reduction in the Cash Reserve Ratio (CRR) is likely to translate into lower lending rates as banks pass on the benefits to borrowers. With inflation under control and a resilient economy, there is also a strong possibility of a policy rate cut in upcoming MPC meetings. Lower interest rates would enhance affordability and further boost buyer sentiment, driving continued momentum in the real estate sector.

By-Akash Khurana, President and CEO, Krisumi Corporation

The trend in 2024 –
The Delhi NCR real estate market has seen an unprecedented surge in 2024, with over 75,000 residential units sold, marking a 15% year-on-year growth, as per a recent Knight Frank report. This growth was fuelled by infrastructure advancements like the completion of the Dwarka Expressway and policy reforms supporting affordable housing. The market’s evolution highlights a shift toward integrated townships and sustainable developments. Dwarka Expressway accounted for a substantial chunk of the sales in Gurugram region which is supported by enhanced connectivity and modern amenities. Like in 2023, even in 2024 buyers continued to prioritize larger homes with green spaces and premium facilities. Inline with the growing preference about 35% of new projects, as per CBRE, are being developed with integrated IoT-enabled smart home solutions signalling a shift towards tech-driven living. The demand for luxury housing also continued to rise sharply during the year. As per a PropTiger report, India’s luxury housing market experienced a remarkable 37.8% surge in sales in 2024. Homes priced at ₹1 crore and above made up 20% of total sales, while homes priced over ₹4 crore witnessed an unprecedented growth of 82%, reflecting a rising demand for premium living, the report stated. The trend may continue in the coming year.

Outlook for 2025 –
In 2024, as per an Anarock Capital report, real estate developers raised ₹1281 crore raised via qualified institutional placements and plan to launch 253 million square feet of housing over the next five years, thus showcasing immense confidence in the sector’s resilience. Accordingly the strong momentum is likely to persist in 2025 as well. Delhi NCR is expected to add 100,000 new units in 2025, with luxury and ultra-luxury segments projected to grow by 20% as per a Cushman & Wakefield report. The completion of key infrastructure projects like the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway and the push for sustainable development will further bolster the market. Luxury housing will likely continue its upward swing, buoyed by rising HNI numbers, infrastructure advancements, and evolving buyer preferences. There’s also a rising demand for mid-segment luxury housing priced above ₹ 2 crore, catering to aspirational millennials. Projects focusing on wellness amenities, like air purification systems and meditation spaces, would continue to gain further traction. At Krisumi Corporation, we’re committed to pioneering these trends, delivering projects that redefine urban living through innovation, quality, and sustainability.

In 2024, the Indian real estate sector recorded a growth trajectory, driven by a surge in demand for luxury housing, green projects, and rising interest across cities. Building on this momentum, the sector is anticipated to achieve greater growth in 2025. According to a recent report by Knight Frank, titled “India Real Estate: Residential and Office (January – June 2024), the first half of 2024 observed homes priced at Rs 1 crore (₹10 million) and above representing 41% of the total sales, infusing new energy into the market.

Besides, the sector witnessed exceptional growth in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, largely due to infrastructure development transforming these areas into investment hotspots. Knight Frank India reported a 62% rise in residential property prices and a 12% increase in demand for commercial properties in these regions during Q3 2024. Further, green and sustainable projects also stole the spotlight in 2024, with developers increasingly prioritizing eco-friendly construction and energy-efficient designs.

Amidst this growth, developers and experts are optimistic about 2025.

Yukti Nagpal, Director, Gulshan Group, said, “The year 2024 has been a defining chapter for the real estate sector, marked by unparalleled growth and unwavering resilience. Leading this evolution, the Delhi-NCR region emerged as the epicenter of demand for premium residential spaces, a trend shaped by transformative infrastructure milestones like the Noida International Airport and the rising aspirations of modern, discerning households.

At Gulshan Group, 2024 also marked the delivery of Dynasty, a true epitome of luxury and refined living. Dynasty stands as a testament to our unwavering commitment to delivering spaces that not only meet but exceed the expectations of modern homebuyers—spaces that blend opulent design, timeless aesthetics, and impeccable craftsmanship.

Looking ahead to 2025, we anticipate an even greater shift towards convenience-driven luxury, particularly in the hospitality sector. Today’s discerning audience seeks holistic experiences that combine comfort and intuitive services. Convenience is the new luxury—a trend that underscores a desire for effortless living amidst the hustle and bustle of modern life.

This evolving aspiration for curated luxury, sustainable innovation, and community-centric urban oases inspires us to continually raise the bar. At Gulshan Group, we remain committed to redefining premium living and hospitality by delivering exceptional spaces that resonate with the lifestyles of tomorrow.

Our vision for the New Year is clear: to set unprecedented benchmarks in both realty and hospitality, crafting experiences that are not just luxurious but also convenient, thoughtful, and enduring. We are here to transform aspirations into realities.”

Mohit Goel, Managing Director, Omaxe Group, said “2024 has been a great year for the housing, commercial, and retail segment witnessing an exceptional growth trajectory. Infrastructure upgrades, the renewed focus on home ownership, higher disposable income, and diversifying investment portfolios have led the sector’s growth throughout the year. In particular, Delhi-NCR witnessed a significant surge in luxury housing growth. Besides, the leasing activity for office space and retail recorded new growth numbers in the region. While Gurugram and Noida notably contributed to this growth graph of NCR’s realty market, Faridabad emerged equally promising. Long dominated by its neighboring towns, Faridabad has successfully positioned itself as one of the potential regions to watch out for in the years ahead. Supported by positive economic conditions and increasing demand in peripheral cities, Faridabad is likely to witness expanded investment opportunities. We believe that the city will provide valuable opportunities for both developers and investors enabling it to shine brighter on the NCR’s realty map.”

Sandeep Chhillar, Founder and Chairman, Landmark Group, said “The demand for housing reached a new peak across cities making 2024 an exceptional year for the real estate sector. As per the industry trend analysis, Delhi-NCR’s housing sales during Jan-Sep 2024 witnessed new growth numbers compared to the city’s last year’s sale numbers. With a significant shift noticed in buyer behavior seeking upgraded lifestyle and upscale living spaces, the luxury homes segment witnessed a significant and constant jump in demand where Delhi-NCR emerged as one of the top performing markets amongst key cities. Given the upward growth trajectory of the luxury housing segment, we anticipate a strong year ahead driven by positive market sentiments and favorable economic conditions. Gurugram and its emerging corridors are expected to dominate the new supply of luxury housing and its demand in the year ahead. We are looking forward to rapidly increasing development and sales growth as Gurugram emerges to become one of the leading realty markets.

Piyush Kansal, Executive Director of Royale Estate Group, said “In 2024, tier 2 cities have emerged as the new frontier for residential real estate, driven by a mix of improved infrastructure, enhanced connectivity, and the evolving needs of homebuyers seeking both value and quality. Cities like Chandigarh,Mohali,Zirakpur,Panchkula have established themselves as leading destinations for those looking to have a balanced lifestyle and luxury living. With its world-class urban planning, green spaces, and a blend of modern amenities, Chandigarh’s real estate market has become increasingly attractive to both homebuyers and investors. As we look towards 2025, we expect Chandigarh’s residential market to continue its upward trajectory, offering opportunities for luxury and sustainable living in a well-connected, progressive city.

Ravinder Choudhary, Vice President of Vegas Mall, said “Vegas Mall: 2024 brought a huge transformation for retail real estate, with malls evolving into vibrant community hubs rather than just shopping destinations. Across the NCR, malls have embraced a mixed-use approach, blending retail, entertainment, dining, and wellness under one roof to cater to diverse consumer preferences. The retail spaces revitalized their landscape, drawing significant footfall and interest from global and domestic brands. Amid rising disposable incomes and demand for experiential spaces, we anticipate this evolution to continue in 2025, with more innovative, multi-functional mall projects reshaping the retail experience.

Ashwani Kumar, Pyramid Infratech, said, “The real estate sector in 2024 has grown exceptionally well with developing areas emerging as new markets. The luxury segment driven by evolving consumer preferences, and rising disposable income played a significant role in this growth graph across cities. In NCR, Gurugram has remained the preferred luxury destination where new sectors have become increasingly attractive to buyers and investors. Gurugram’s luxury home market witnessed an outstanding year paving the way for new markets to emerge growth frontiers in the year ahead. Improved infrastructure, like the development of new expressways, metro lines, and business hubs, has enhanced connectivity, making previously underserved areas more appealing to luxury buyers. These factors will continue to benefit the city’s real estate market.”

Ambika Saxena, Director, Corporate Communications, Bayside Corporation, said “Looking ahead to 2025, the luxury real estate market in India is set to witness continued growth, driven by the increasing demand from high-net-worth individuals (HNIs) and non-resident Indians (NRIs). This demand reflects a shift towards premiumisation, with buyers increasingly seeking larger, more exclusive homes with state-of-the-art amenities and privacy. Developers will need to adapt to these evolving preferences, focusing on delivering not just luxury, but a living experience that meets the high expectations of today’s affluent market.”

With the foundation laid in 2024, the Indian real estate market is well-positioned to achieve remarkable growth in 2025. Developers are ready to launch projects that cater to evolving customer preferences, emphasizing luxury, sustainability, and technological innovation. This optimism ensures that the sector will continue its upward trajectory, making 2025 a pivotal year for Indian real estate.