#Delhi Group Housing 2019

[metamatar]

October 10, 2022

Amit Kumar had everything going for him. After graduating in engineering and landing a decent job, Amit wanted to settle down with his childhood sweetheart Renu. The couple had known each other since Class IX and dreamt of a life together. The only difficulty was that Renu belonged to a Brahmin family and Amit was a Dalit.

With their homes barely a kilometre apart in Garhwa district of Jharkhand, Renu knew her family would never approve of the match. The couple decided to run away and tie the knot in another State. And thus began their tale of unending harassment and tragedy.

The couple married at a temple in Dehradun and got their marriage registered there. They had just about settled down at Paonta Sahib in Himachal Pradesh when, in a midnight raid, the Uttar Pradesh police took away Renu, claiming that she had been abducted. Amit and Renu have not seen or spoken to each other since that fateful night of August 13, 2021.

Amit’s life has been a quagmire of legal battles and dismissed habeas corpus petitions since then. “I fear my wife is no more,” he told The Hindu.

Activists say such tragic situations can be avoided if couples like Amit and Renu are provided safe houses and special protection by the State governments as mandated by the Supreme Court.

According to data from the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), the number of “honour killings” in the country was 24, 25 and 33 in 2019, 2020 and 2021, respectively. Punjab, Madhya Pradesh and Jharkhand topped the list in 2021 and 2020, while Manipur was on top in 2019.

The government in 2021 informed Parliament that there were 145 “honour killing” incidents in the country between 2017 and 2019.

Interestingly, though the NCRB report attributed only 25 deaths to “honour killings” in 2020, it said there were 27 deaths due to casteism and 1,558 due to “illicit relationship”. Similarly, in 2021, 33 deaths were listed under “honour killings”, but 1,544 and 1,532 under “illicit relationship” and “love affairs”, respectively.

So far, only Delhi, Haryana and Punjab have safe houses for inter-faith and inter-religious couples. Kerala has only announced the setting up of a safe house.

In fact, only 21 States have said that they have complied with the Supreme Court directives, which means that they have asked the police officers concerned of a State for strict compliance, according to Dhanak for Humanity, a non-governmental organisation which works with such couples, helping them solemnise their marriages and providing legal support.

The Supreme Court had in 2018 directed that safe houses be set up in every district as well as a special cell in States for couples facing opposition from families and community.

Gaurav Yadav, an engineer from IIT Chennai, said he was working with survivors of “honour crimes” and couples who are in hiding to petition the government for more safe houses across the country.

“Soon we will form an official grouping and petition the government to follow the Supreme Court directives on safe houses and special cells,” Mr. Yadav said, adding that he had organised a convention regarding the same in Delhi recently.

He said though couples had been demanding that safe houses be set up, the State administrations had looked the other way.

An example is of Ravikant Chandrawanshi and Alisha, who had a harrowing time getting married under the Special Marriage Act in Chhattisgarh.

The inter-faith couple at first decided to elope and marry in Bilaspur. However, a lack of support system and security, including finances, saw them return home in Kawardha within four days.

“As my wife’s family were well to do and politically connected, they kept up the pressure on us. Finally, we had to take legal recourse and approached the High Court asking them to direct the State administration to provide the mandated safe house and police protection.

“However, we were informed that there was no safe house and Alisha had to go to a sakhi centre or a women’s safe house,” Mr. Chandravanshi said.

Though the couple approached the highest of authorities, they were not given any police protection either and had to go into hiding for around six months after their marriage.

According to Asif Iqbal of Dhanak for Humanity, most States send the girl to a Nari Niketan after couples approach them. “It is here that the girl is the most insecure as her family mostly approaches her and puts pressure to go back. Many a time, this also leads to what is known as honour killing of the girl”.

Sanjay Sachadev of Love Commandoes, an organisation which rescues and shelters such couples, said, “The need of the hour is safe houses across the country. In almost every case, the police try and send the girl to a women’s shelter and the boy is left to fend for himself.”

A couple who are staying in a Delhi safe house and did not wish to be identified said that they could not have thought of living together had it not been for the security of the safe house.

Mr. Iqbal, whose organisation has helped many couples seek legal recourse to stay together and get married, said that of the distress calls he receives, the most were from Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra and Rajasthan.

[beguines]

In the days leading to August 5, 2019 and in the weeks and months to come, Kashmir became a site of unfathomable cruelty. Thousands of Kashmiris were detained; pro-India politicians were placed under house arrest, pro-freedom leaders as well as minors were rounded up and thrown in jail. Young boys were shipped off to Indian prisons 1,500km away in Agra and Varanasi. Foreign journalists and international human rights groups were banned from access to Kashmir. The region was placed under a complete communication blackout. Cellular phones, Internet, landline services, and even the postal services were dismantled. News traveled by word of mouth. Journalists compressed photos and video onto memory cards and smuggled them out with passengers en route to Delhi. Schools, offices, banks, and businesses were closed for months. Life came to a standstill.

On August 5, 2019, the Modi government revoked both Articles 370 and 35A, split the region into two union territories of Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh, and placed them under the direct control of Delhi. Kashmir had been effectively annexed. It was a stunning rebuke to the myth of Indian democracy as well as the veneer of Kashmiri autonomy. Observers warned that this move represented an intensification of India's settler-colonial project in Indian-occupied Kashmir. Under the new status of the state, India would now have the legal justification to allow non-Kashmiris to access residency rights in Kashmir as well as purchase land that had previously been restricted to Kashmiri permanent residents, or state subjects. The end goal was now within sight: Kashmir's Muslim-majority demography would be changed in favor of Indian Hindus. In time, elections would be held, and democracy would cover for the ethnocratic, colonial rule that had been imposed on the region.

Revoking Article 370 and Article 35A were long-held goals of Hindu nationalists and supremacists in India. They had resented the autonomy PM Nehru had "granted" Kashmir in 1947 and wished to see Kashmir fully integrated into India. For Hindu-supremacists, these two articles were an obstruction to the region's full integration into the Indian state and had contributed to the rise of "separatism" or "terrorism" in the region—which is how India refers to Kashmiris' decades long resistance to Indian rule. To the Hindu right, the problems in Kashmir were borne out of India's coddling of Kashmiri Muslims. The question of Kashmiri self-determination had never been on the agenda. The removal of the two Articles was therefore portrayed as ushering in a "New Kashmir" in which peace and prosperity would arrive through Indian investment and development. This had been a central plank of Narendra Modi's second election campaign, too.

Azad Essa, Hostile Homelands: The New Alliance Between India and Israel

[rabbitcruiser]

World Sparrow Day

World Sparrow Day, observed annually on March 20, is a day to raise awareness of the protection of sparrows. We are particularly excited about this holiday because we just can’t resist the cuteness of these little birds and we know at the end of this article, you will be as excited to join too.

History of World Sparrow Day

World Sparrow Day is an initiative started by the Nature Forever Society of India (founded by Mohammed Dilawar) along with the Eco-Sys Action Foundation of France and many other organizations around the world. Though the holiday carries the name Sparrow, it was mainly created for awareness of Sparrows but also includes the beauty and biodiversity of other common birds that may share the same space as us.

Mohammed Dilawar, a dedicated conservationist, started the campaign to provide special care for house Sparrows in Nashik. The idea to make the campaign official was born during an informal discussion at the office of the Nature Forever Society. Thereafter, the first World Sparrow Day was observed in 2010 all around the world.

It created a platform for bird conservationists to network and exchange ideas to improve conservation. It aims to provide a point of contact for people around the world to come together and create awareness of the necessity for the protection of common biodiversity or species of lower conservation.

Sparrows or house sparrows have been known to live in green patches and backyards chirping away in urban areas though, during the harsh summers, they require cool shades and water. They’ve always been quite common in residential areas but are currently on the verge of extinction due to noise pollution, lack of nesting sites in modern buildings, pesticide usage, and non-availability of food as reported by ornithologists.

The awareness created led to the house sparrow becoming the state bird of  Delhi in 2012.

As the years go by, more people are joining the campaign to conserve these birds as a way of giving back to nature. Some have gone as far as creating bird nests for sparrows and other common, birds in the community.

World Sparrow Day timeline

1863 Introduction of the House Sparrow

The house sparrow is introduced into America, parts of Africa, Australia, and New Zealand from this time, such that it is now the most widespread urban bird in the world.

2008 Heroes of the Environment

The founder of the Nature Forever Society, Mohammed Dilawar is named one of the ‘Heroes of the Environment.’

2012 State Bird of Delhi

The efforts of the Nature Forever Society, a conservationist group, lead to the declaration of the house sparrow as the state bird of Delhi.

2019 I Love Sparrows

The theme for World Sparrow Day in 2019 is ‘I Love Sparrows.’

World Sparrow Day FAQs

Why is World Sparrow Day celebrated?

It is a day celebrated to raise awareness and protect the common house sparrows.

What does a sparrow symbolize?

The sparrow symbolizes simplicity, creativity, community, power, and empowerment. The sparrows are not independent birds but they are neither needy nor desperate.

Are sparrows the smartest birds?

Sparrows are smart and sharp birds but research has shown that parrots and the corvid family of crows, ravens, and jays are considered the smartest species.

How to Observe World Sparrow Day

Care for a sparrow

Organize walks and hikes

Create awareness about sparrows

Make nests, put water for sparrows during the summer season, and put bird feeders in gardens or any open area to protect the adorable bird. They’ll surely appreciate it.

Organize a sparrow-watching trip with your family and friends, feed the birds, take pictures to document, and create beautiful stickers or posters. You can create beautiful memories on this day.

Host a sparrow event and organize teachings that create awareness and enlighten people about sparrows. Also have entertainment like sparrow poetry, a photography contest, and a sparrow treasure hunt.

5 Interesting Facts About Sparrows

Once upon a time in Britain

A movement to the grain fields

The first day in the world

Sparrow Awards

Making of the World Sparrow Day

Sparrows were once one of Britain’s most common birds, however, their population has declined in recent years.

Although house sparrows are non-migratory birds, the urban flock had traditionally moved to the countryside to feed on ripening grain fields.

The first World Sparrow Day was celebrated in 2010 in different parts of the world.

The Nature Forever Society instituted the first Sparrow Awards in March 2011 to encourage the efforts made towards the cause and to selflessly conserve the environment.

The idea to mark World Sparrow Day came up during a discussion at the N.F.C’s office where the idea was to earmark a day for the conservation of the house sparrow and other common birds.

Why World Sparrow Day is Important

It’s a day to admire nature’s beauty

It is a time to spread  awareness on biodiversity conservation

It is a fun event

World Sparrow Day is a day to celebrate the conservation and protection of sparrows. It is also a day to admire the beauty of biodiversity and nature.

This day provides a meeting ground for people from different parts of the world to come together and play an important role in advocacy and spreading awareness of the need of conserving common biodiversity. We love this!

Various kinds of campaigns, events, and activities are organized on this day to encourage people to participate and contribute to the cause. See what you can do to help!

Source

[marketingpicnic]

NCR Real Estate Market: Housing price rises 137% since 2019 | Experts Speak

The National Capital Region (NCR) has witnessed an impressive 137 per cent rise in housing prices in the last five years. According to a report by PropEquity, the cities like Noida, Gurugram, Ghaziabad and Greater Noida are seeing prices more than double between 2019 and 2024 September.

The report said that this has been possible due to the investor confidence, strong homeownership sentiments, large-scale infrastructure development (such as Noida International Airport, Dwarka Expressway, Delhi-Meerut expressway, Rapid raid, metro expansion among others), and rising cost of land and construction.

NCR Real Estate Market The data released by NSE-listed firm also noted that between 2019 and September 2024, Noida saw the highest rise at 152 per cent (from Rs 5910 per sq. ft. to Rs 14,946 per sq. ft.), followed by Ghaziabad at 139 per cent (from Rs 3691 per sq. ft. to Rs 8823 per sq. ft.), Gurugram at 135 per cent (from Rs 8299 per sq. ft. in 2019 to Rs 19,535 per sq. ft. in 2024) and Greater Noida at 121 per cent from Rs 3900 per sq. ft. to Rs 8601 per sq. ft.). Commenting on the development, Samir Jasuja, Founder-CEO, PropEquity said that the NCR market will continue to outperform other tier 1 cities and see more investment and expansion from branded developers.

NCR Real Estate Sector However, on the supply front, Noida witnessed a decline of 41 per cent. While Gurugram, Ghaziabad and Greater Noida saw an outstanding rise by 222 per cent, 14 per cent and 36 per cent, respectively. In absorption, except Gurugram which rose by 157 per cent, Noida, Ghaziabad and Greater Noida saw a decline of 55 per cent, 31 per cent, and 39 per cent, respectively.

“The unsold inventory has seen a consistent decline across all markets with Noida, Greater Noida and Ghaziabad seeing significant decline. The efforts of the UP government towards resolving the stalled project crisis have helped in reducing the inventory,” Jasuja added. NCR Real Estate Market: Stalled Projects

According to PropEquity, Greater Noida has 167 stalled projects with 74,645 units. Noida has 103 stalled housing projects comprising 41,438 units, while Ghaziabad witnessing 50 stalled projects with 15,278 units. Gurugram has 158 stalled projects with 52,509 units. NCR Real Estate Market: Experts Speak

Amit Modi, Director County Group, said, "Noida’s real estate market has seen unprecedented growth. Market data reveal that property prices have doubled over the last five years, further underscoring Noida’s appeal. As developments continue, Noida’s appeal as a premier investment destination within the NCR is set to strengthen, attracting both end-users and investors alike."

Yash Miglani, MD, Migsun Group, said,"With the upcoming Jewar Airport set to become a major commercial hub, Noida is increasingly seen as an ideal destination for both homebuyers and businesses, particularly for those seeking to upgrade from nearby cities like Faridabad, Ghaziabad, and Delhi."

Saurab Saharan, GMD, HCBS Developments, said, "Real estate developers are witnessing a rise in property sales due to improved connectivity and increasing demand for properties in Gurgaon. Further, Sohna has seen consistent price growth, with property values nearly doubling since 2019, driven by ongoing infrastructure improvements and the post-pandemic market rebound."

Shiwang Suraj, Founder-Director of InfraMantra said, “The return on investment from real estate has surpassed returns from all other investment tools. Demand continues to be robust even at elevated price points as is evident from the fall in property conversion time. The real estate boom has been so pronounced that newer micro-markets on the periphery of Noida, Gurugram and Ghaziabad have been creating the necessary buzz and homebuyer interest.

[global-newz]

Top Real Estate Developers Halve Debt by Q1 FY 2025 Amid Strong Property Sales

According to an analysis by ANAROCK, the collective net debt of the top eight real estate developers in India was reduced by nearly 50%, dropping to ₹20,808 crore by Q1 FY 2025 from over ₹44,817 crore in Q4 FY 2019. This significant reduction is primarily attributed to a surge in property sales.

Leading the way in debt reduction, DLF Ltd. reported a 165% decline, gaining a surplus cash reserve of ₹2,896 crore. Kolte Patil also saw a 107% reduction, gaining ₹37 crore in surplus cash. Meanwhile, Lodha (Macrotech) reduced its debt by 83% during this period.

Prashant Thakur, Regional Director and Head of Research at ANAROCK Group, highlighted that the top eight developers—DLF, Lodha, Sobha, Puravankara, Prestige Estates, Kolte Patil, Mahindra Lifespace, and Godrej Properties—experienced a 54% drop in debt from their FY 2019 peak due to strong sales performance.

Additionally, the luxury housing market has seen a 27% sales growth in the first half of 2024, with Delhi-NCR emerging as a key player in this segment.

[sustainabilityandthecity]

Exploring Sustainable Fashion Practices: Upcycling, Weaving, and Eco-Dyeing

Hello again, dear readers! In my previous blog posts, I have explored a range of theories and studies on sustainable practices beyond fashion design. However, fashion itself intersects with production, cultural values, and aesthetics in complex ways. This blog post delves into the technical aspects of sustainable fashion practices, specifically upcycling, weaving, and eco-dyeing, integrating relevant research and personal experiences.

Upcycling and Second-Hand Shopping: A Personal Introduction

Upcycling and second-hand shopping were my initial forays into sustainable practices, significantly influenced by my family's frequent engagement in these activities. Upcycling involves repurposing old or damaged garments into new items, such as kitchen rags, hair scrunchies, or additional elements for existing clothing. This practice not only extends the lifecycle of textiles but also reduces waste.

A particularly inspiring example of upcycling I recently stumbled upon was while watching Julia Fox’s new E! Show, where she co-stars as a judge alongside the legendary Law Roach; every episode a new group of emerging designers must construct a garment reusing materials such as plastic bottles and candy wrappers. This also reminds me of Stella McCartney’s quote from the true cost documentary: “It’s more exciting to me now finding a way to cut down on impact and being more sustainable than with new colours, styles, silhouettes and hemlines, etc.” This approach highlights the importance of diverting textile waste from landfills and presents a challenge for designers to work creatively with limited resources (Marques et al., 2019) which I think can be quite exciting.

Upcycled outfits from E! Show 'OMG! fashun'

According to Kate Fletcher's research, upcycling is crucial for fostering a circular economy and challenging traditional consumption patterns. Fletcher argues that upcycling not only mitigates waste but also redefines value in fashion by transforming discarded materials into desirable products (Fletcher, 2014). This shift underscores the potential of upcycling to influence consumer behaviour and industry practices.

Weaving: An Ancient Craft with Contemporary Relevance

Weaving, an ancient technique of interlacing strands to form fabric or a 2D structure, has been a foundational craft since the Neolithic era and ancient Egypt. It has been practised by various cultures, including Native North Americans, Vikings, and other indigenous groups (ECOIST, 2022). In Māori culture, weaving with harakeke (New Zealand flax) holds significant cultural and practical value. Māori cultivated harakeke in special plantations, known as pā harakeke, for producing clothing, fishing nets, baskets, and mats, as well as for medicinal purposes (Tepapa, 2024).

Harakeke, or flax, is unique to Aotearoa and comprises two main species: common flax (harakeke) and mountain flax (wharariki). It represents a whānau (family) in Māori symbolism, with the inner shoot (rito) symbolising a child, and the outer leaves representing extended family members. Only the outer leaves are harvested, following strict tikanga (protocols) to ensure the plant's sustainability and respect for its cultural role (Tepapa, 2024).

During a recent workshop with Paia Swanson Terepo from Te Wananga o Aotearoa, I learned traditional Māori weaving techniques, such as creating putiputi (flowers) and kono (baskets). This experience, which included a karanga (formal opening) to honour the resources used, demonstrated the cultural significance of weaving and its alignment with sustainability.

Own Photos from Workshop with Paia Swanson

Handloom weaving, which predates mass production, represents an earth-centred design process. Artisans in Delhi, India, exemplify this tradition by focusing on ethical practices and cultural storytelling through their weaving (House of Wandering Silk, 2011). Kate Fletcher’s research supports the idea that traditional crafts like weaving embody a slower, more mindful approach to production, contrasting with the fast-paced nature of contemporary fashion (Fletcher, 2014). This slower approach aligns with sustainability goals by reducing environmental impact.

Eco-Dyeing: Natural Colours with Sustainable Methods

Eco-dyeing uses natural pigments from sources such as plants, fungi, and insects to colour fibres. This method promotes sustainability by relying on renewable materials. Natural dyes come from a variety of elements, including fruits, roots, leaves, and even insects (Lara et al., 2022).

In my own experiments, I have used materials like acorns, flowers, spinach and red wine to create dyes and different dye effects. The process involves pre-treatments such as scouring (to clean the fibres) and mordanting (to enhance dye adherence), which ensure vibrant and lasting colours. Despite requiring substantial water for pre-treatment, eco-dyeing generally poses minimal risk to waterways due to its reliance on natural compounds.

Own Photos

The use of indigo dye, known for its oxidative reaction that creates a rich blue hue, highlights the aesthetic and practical benefits of eco-dyeing techniques. Kate Fletcher’s research aligns with this approach, emphasising eco-dyeing as a method that supports environmental stewardship and ethical fashion by utilising renewable resources and reducing pollution (Fletcher, 2014).

Own Photos

Embracing Slow Craft

My appreciation for slow-craft methods has deepened as I recognise their alignment with nature’s pace. Nature takes time to grow, and our craft should reflect this. In a society often driven by speed and mass production, incorporating principles of slow craft—through mindfulness and activities like gardening, crafting, and meditation—offers a meaningful way to align with sustainable values.

Photo Accessed from Sanrio Instagram Page

Conclusion

Sustainable fashion practices such as upcycling, weaving, and eco-dyeing offer valuable insights into creating environmentally responsible and culturally respectful fashion. Upcycling repurposes waste creatively, weaving with harakeke honours traditional sustainability, and eco-dyeing uses natural pigments to minimise environmental impact. By embracing these practices and the principles of slow craft, the fashion industry can move towards a more sustainable and respectful future.

Signing off for now,

Adam <3

References

ECOIST. “The History of Weaving and Women.” ECOIST (2022). https://ecoist.world/blogs/eco-bliss/the-history-of-weaving-and-women.

Fletcher, Kate. “Fashion and Sustainability: Design for Change.” Routledge, 2014.

House of Wandering Silk. “House of Wandering Silk: Purpose & Values.” House of Wandering Silk (2011). https://www.wanderingsilk.org/purpose-vision-values.

Lara, Livia, Isabel Cabral, and Joana Cunha. “Ecological Approaches to Textile Dyeing: A Review.” Sustainability 14, no. 14 (2022): 8353.

Salamone, Lorenzo. “How Does Upcycling Originate in Fashion History?” NSS Magazine (2022). https://www.nssmag.com/en/fashion/29431/upcycling-tommy.

Tepapa. “Harakeke (New Zealand Flax).” Te Papa Collections Online. Accessed May 24, 2024. https://collections.tepapa.govt.nz/topic/3623.

Twinkl. “Harakeke Weaving.” Twinkl (2024). Accessed May 24, 2024. https://www.twinkl.co.nz/teaching-wiki/harakeke-weaving.

[gauravverma5778]

Ambience Group Promoter Trends Shaping Delhi NCR's Residential Real Estate

In 2024, the residential real estate sector in India is poised for a significant revival, resembling the robust market conditions seen before the pandemic in 2019. Key indicators suggest a return to normalcy, especially concerning housing inventory levels and the growing share of first-time home buyers. Post-pandemic, consumer priorities have shifted towards prioritizing comfort, safety, and overall well-being. This shift has driven a noticeable increase in demand for smart homes, featuring automated systems for lighting, security, and AI-driven amenities. This surge reflects the evolving preferences of modern homeowners.

Looking ahead, one prominent trend for 2024 is the rise of smart homes. According to Ambience Group Promoter, integrating technology into residences has become more than a luxury—it's now an expectation. The convergence of technology and real estate, known as PropTech, is driving innovation. Virtual and augmented reality applications are transforming property exploration, allowing prospective buyers and tenants to tour properties remotely through immersive experiences. Additionally, artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing data analysis, improving market predictions and property valuations with precision.

Read More

[ranvijaysingh15]

Ambience Group Promoter Explores 2024 Residential Real Estate Trends in Delhi NCR

In 2024, there are many important changes happening in the residential real estate sector in India. It's expected to be a good year, similar to how things were before the pandemic in 2019. Experts think we might go back to having similar amounts of houses available and the number of people buying their first home could increase. The Ambience Group, a real estate company, says it's crucial to understand how people's preferences have changed after the pandemic. People now care more about being comfortable, safe, and healthy. Because of this, there's a growing demand for smart homes, which have features like automated lights and security systems controlled by technology.

One big trend in 2024 is the rise of smart homes. Ambience Group Promoter says that having technology in homes isn't just a luxury anymore; it's something people expect. The use of technology in real estate, called PropTech, is driving innovation. Things like virtual reality and augmented reality are changing how people look at properties, letting them explore without being there physically. And artificial intelligence (AI) is helping analyze data better, making predictions about the market and the value of properties more accurate.

Read More

[petnews2day]

ED to question Hiranandanis today over FEMA violations | Mumbai news

New Post has been published on https://petn.ws/hjlEI

ED to question Hiranandanis today over FEMA violations | Mumbai news

Mumbai: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has summoned Niranjan Hiranandani and his son Darshan Hiranandani, the promoters of prominent Mumbai-based real estate developer Hiranandani Group, for questioning in a foreign exchange violation case on February 26 with respect to two of its housing projects in Panvel and Chennai. New Delhi, India– December 20, 2019: assocham upcoming […]

See full article at https://petn.ws/hjlEI #OtherNews

[maddielivinginternationally]

Week 11: "Urban Challenges Unveiled: Navigating Growth, Slums, and Segregation in China and India"

Our discourse this week delved into the challenges posed by rapid urbanization in the world's two most populous nations, China and India. We explored various cities, considering Asia's longstanding tradition of urban life and how these countries are grappling with the consequences of swift urban expansion. Both nations confront substantial hurdles, including issues of congestion, environmental constraints on expansion, pervasive poverty in slums, and environmental pollution.

Cities like Delhi, recognized as the world's most polluted city yet simultaneously captivating and vibrant, Mumbai, the nucleus of India's financial and industrial sectors and a hub for the film industry, Shanghai, boasting the world's largest cargo port coupled with rapid economic growth, and Beijing, China's capital and its second-largest city, were examined. In light of the inevitable continuation of dramatic urban growth, some cities, notably Mumbai, are striving to revitalize their slums, exemplified by the case of Dharavi. Initially unfamiliar with the precise characterization of a slum, I discovered it to be an inner-city area inhabited by lower-income individuals, often featuring housing projects and lacking secure land rights. In Mumbai, the proximity of these slums to the ocean has prompted two companies to vie for the opportunity to develop them.

However, my curiosity extends to the strategies they intend to employ for this development. Will local authorities resort to bulldozers or employ alternative methods, mirroring practices observed in various parts of the country? Such actions have frequently sparked controversy and censure, primarily due to apprehensions regarding human rights, the displacement of vulnerable communities, and the absence of alternative housing options. This phenomenon resonates with the Chicago School's concept of succession, where one demographic is replaced by another (Palen, 2019, chapter 4), resulting in the displacement of families and communities.

Another instance of coping with rapid urban growth is evident in China and its hukou system. By conferring distinct entitlements to urban and rural residents, the Hukou system, coupled with the work unit and production brigade systems, regulates mobility and manages job distribution. This system bound workers to their workplaces, providing them with housing, pensions, and medical care. Conversely, rural workers faced exclusion from superior job opportunities and were denied social services. This often led to parents migrating to urban areas for work, leaving their children behind—a phenomenon known as 'left-behind children.' This brought to mind the concept of the urban growth machine (Logan and Molotch).

Furthermore, the parallels between slums and the Hukou system prompted me to reconsider the notion of segregation and its manifestation within a population. In China, rural workers continue to face exclusion from superior job opportunities and social services, initially by law and subsequently through discriminatory practices. Drawing from my understanding of segregation in America, it is evident that segregation does not create groups; rather, it consolidates its impact on existing groups. However, in the Philippines, segregation actively contributes to the formation of distinct groups. For instance, due to the proximity of their residential areas, inhabitants of slums and affluent neighborhoods may interact, but not concurrently. It was surprising to learn that, during Halloween, the children from Phil-am would be permitted to trick-or-treat first in their quarter, followed by the children from San Roque.

[anoushka-jain]

Tawaifs and Kothas of Chawri Bazar

Historic walking tours in a city like Delhi are a great initiative to immerse yourself in the stories from the past. The history of Delhi is very fascinating and it is not only just showcased in the monuments and forts, but also in the bustling streets of old Delhi.

It was in 2019, when Enroute Indian History started conducting their flagship heritage walk called ‘Exploring Tawaifs and Kothas of Chawri bazar’. Enroute Indian History is a women-led organization that focuses on the dissemination of historical knowledge and creating awareness about heritage by conducting heritage walking tours in Delhi.

The participants walk through the bustling streets of Chawri bazaar (originally known as Bazar-e-husn) and witness the kothas that once used to serve as the houses of the Tawaifs. Tawaifs were highly skilled performers who were accomplished in singing, dancing and other arts. They were patrons of classical music and dance, and some of them became influential figures in the cultural scene of their time. Get to know about the various powerful Tawaifs, who were the richest and the elitist citizens of their time. Experience the rise and the fall of the Tawaifs, through the stories narrated by the finest and the most passionate individuals of Enroute Indian History. The heritage walk at Chawri bazaar, is a one of a kind experience and a great way to learn about the history of Delhi.

The monument walks or the heritage walks are 1.5 hour guided group walks conducted by Enroute Indian History, every weekend. These group walks are a great way to meet new like minded people. People from all over the country, when visiting Delhi never miss the opportunity to attend our special Tawaifs and Kothas walk as they are not being conducted elsewhere. If you cannot attend the weekend group walks, contact us for special customized heritage walks, tailor made just for you and conducted as per your convenience.

Our walk has been featured by esteemed media houses such as Indian Express and The Print. Check our website to know about the heritage walks www.enrouteindianhistory.com You can also follow us on instagram at enroute_indian_history_ for more history related content.

[elan-the-presidential-gurgaon]

Elan The Mark Sector 106 Gurgaon

Elan Group: Setting a benchmark in the Indian Real Estate Industry.

Elan Group, established in 2013 elan the mark sector 106 is a leading real estate developer in India with a portfolio of luxurious residential and commercial projects in Gurgaon.The group is known for its innovative and sustainable approach to real estate development, which has enabled it to set new benchmarks in the industry.The group is headquartered in Gurugram, India and is headed by a team of experienced professionals with proven track records in the real estate industry.

Great Location

Elan The Mark Sector 106 Gurgaon is located in on the bang on the Dwarka Expressway which is one of the fastest developing areas of Gurgaon.The mall is easily accessible from Delhi, Gurugram and other parts of the National Capital Region (NCR). It is a 10-minute drive from Indira Gandhi International Airport and 20 minutes from Cyber City, the business hub of Gurugram.

Best Architecture & Design

The architecture and design of the mark are awe-inspiring. It is built on a 10 acres plot which is a part of 40 acres of township by Elan Group. This features a unique blend of contemporary and traditional design. The mall features a beautifully landscaped central courtyard, a water fountain and a glass roof that allows natural light to flood into the mall.

Great Shopping Experience

Elan The Mark has something for everyone. It houses a plethora of international and domestic brands across various categories including fashion, electronics, footwear, accessories and beauty. The mall also has a unique concept called 'shop-in-shop', where different brands share the same space. The concept allows visitors to explore multiple brands in one place, making their shopping experience more convenient.

Great Shopping Experience

Elan The Marks Mall is a foodie's paradise with a wide variety of food options. From fine dining restaurants to quick eats, the mall has it all.

Apart from shopping and dining, Elan The Marks Gurgaon also offers a number of entertainment options. The mall houses a 7-screen multiplex cinema, which shows the latest movies. It also has a gaming zone, which offers a variety of indoor games and activities for all age groups.

Elan The Mark Sector 106 on Dwarka Expressway is a shopper's paradise. With its unique architecture, wide range of brands, dining options, entertainment options, services and facilities, the mall offers a complete shopping experience. The mall is easily accessible, making it a preferred destination for visitors from across the NCR.

Elan Group's commercial projects include - Elan Town Centre, Elan Miracle, Elan Mercado, and Elan Epic. These projects offer world-class retail and office space equipped with modern amenities such as Wi-Fi connectivity, conference rooms and ample parking space.

Awards & Recognitions

Elan Group has been recognized for excellence in the field of real estate by various industry bodies. The group has received several awards for its innovative and sustainable projects, including the 'Best Commercial Project of the Year' award at the 12th Realty+ Conclave and the Excellence Award 2020 for its project Ellen Miracle.

Elan Group was also awarded the 'Luxury Project of the Year' award at the Realty+ Excellence Awards 2019 for its project elan the mark sector 106. The project was also awarded the 'Best Ultra-Luxury Project of the Year' award at the National Awards for Excellence in Real Estate and Infrastructure 2019.

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World Sparrow Day

World Sparrow Day, observed annually on March 20, is a day to raise awareness of the protection of sparrows. We are particularly excited about this holiday because we just can’t resist the cuteness of these little birds and we know at the end of this article, you will be as excited to join too.

History of World Sparrow Day

World Sparrow Day is an initiative started by the Nature Forever Society of India (founded by Mohammed Dilawar) along with the Eco-Sys Action Foundation of France and many other organizations around the world. Though the holiday carries the name Sparrow, it was mainly created for awareness of Sparrows but also includes the beauty and biodiversity of other common birds that may share the same space as us.

Mohammed Dilawar, a dedicated conservationist, started the campaign to provide special care for house Sparrows in Nashik. The idea to make the campaign official was born during an informal discussion at the office of the Nature Forever Society. Thereafter, the first World Sparrow Day was observed in 2010 all around the world.

It created a platform for bird conservationists to network and exchange ideas to improve conservation. It aims to provide a point of contact for people around the world to come together and create awareness of the necessity for the protection of common biodiversity or species of lower conservation.

Sparrows or house sparrows have been known to live in green patches and backyards chirping away in urban areas though, during the harsh summers, they require cool shades and water. They’ve always been quite common in residential areas but are currently on the verge of extinction due to noise pollution, lack of nesting sites in modern buildings, pesticide usage, and non-availability of food as reported by ornithologists.

The awareness created led to the house sparrow becoming the state bird of  Delhi in 2012.

As the years go by, more people are joining the campaign to conserve these birds as a way of giving back to nature. Some have gone as far as creating bird nests for sparrows and other common, birds in the community.

World Sparrow Day timeline

1863 Introduction of the House Sparrow

The house sparrow is introduced into America, parts of Africa, Australia, and New Zealand from this time, such that it is now the most widespread urban bird in the world.

2008 Heroes of the Environment

The founder of the Nature Forever Society, Mohammed Dilawar is named one of the ‘Heroes of the Environment.’

2012 State Bird of Delhi

The efforts of the Nature Forever Society, a conservationist group, lead to the declaration of the house sparrow as the state bird of Delhi.

2019 I Love Sparrows

The theme for World Sparrow Day in 2019 is ‘I Love Sparrows.’

World Sparrow Day FAQs

Why is World Sparrow Day celebrated?

It is a day celebrated to raise awareness and protect the common house sparrows.

What does a sparrow symbolize?

The sparrow symbolizes simplicity, creativity, community, power, and empowerment. The sparrows are not independent birds but they are neither needy nor desperate.

Are sparrows the smartest birds?

Sparrows are smart and sharp birds but research has shown that parrots and the corvid family of crows, ravens, and jays are considered the smartest species.

How to Observe World Sparrow Day

Care for a sparrow

Organize walks and hikes

Create awareness about sparrows

Make nests, put water for sparrows during the summer season, and put bird feeders in gardens or any open area to protect the adorable bird. They’ll surely appreciate it.

Organize a sparrow-watching trip with your family and friends, feed the birds, take pictures to document, and create beautiful stickers or posters. You can create beautiful memories on this day.

Host a sparrow event and organize teachings that create awareness and enlighten people about sparrows. Also have entertainment like sparrow poetry, a photography contest, and a sparrow treasure hunt.

5 Interesting Facts About Sparrows

Once upon a time in Britain

A movement to the grain fields

The first day in the world

Sparrow Awards

Making of the World Sparrow Day

Sparrows were once one of Britain’s most common birds, however, their population has declined in recent years.

Although house sparrows are non-migratory birds, the urban flock had traditionally moved to the countryside to feed on ripening grain fields.

The first World Sparrow Day was celebrated in 2010 in different parts of the world.

The Nature Forever Society instituted the first Sparrow Awards in March 2011 to encourage the efforts made towards the cause and to selflessly conserve the environment.

The idea to mark World Sparrow Day came up during a discussion at the N.F.C’s office where the idea was to earmark a day for the conservation of the house sparrow and other common birds.

Why World Sparrow Day is Important

It’s a day to admire nature’s beauty

It is a time to spread  awareness on biodiversity conservation

It is a fun event

World Sparrow Day is a day to celebrate the conservation and protection of sparrows. It is also a day to admire the beauty of biodiversity and nature.

This day provides a meeting ground for people from different parts of the world to come together and play an important role in advocacy and spreading awareness of the need of conserving common biodiversity. We love this!

Various kinds of campaigns, events, and activities are organized on this day to encourage people to participate and contribute to the cause. See what you can do to help!

Source

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NCR Real Estate Market: Housing price rises 137% since 2019 | Experts Speak

The National Capital Region (NCR) has witnessed an impressive 137 per cent rise in housing prices in the last five years. According to a report by PropEquity, the cities like Noida, Gurugram, Ghaziabad and Greater Noida are seeing prices more than double between 2019 and 2024 September.

The report said that this has been possible due to the investor confidence, strong homeownership sentiments, large-scale infrastructure development (such as Noida International Airport, Dwarka Expressway, Delhi-Meerut expressway, Rapid raid, metro expansion among others), and rising cost of land and construction.

NCR Real Estate Market The data released by NSE-listed firm also noted that between 2019 and September 2024, Noida saw the highest rise at 152 per cent (from Rs 5910 per sq. ft. to Rs 14,946 per sq. ft.), followed by Ghaziabad at 139 per cent (from Rs 3691 per sq. ft. to Rs 8823 per sq. ft.), Gurugram at 135 per cent (from Rs 8299 per sq. ft. in 2019 to Rs 19,535 per sq. ft. in 2024) and Greater Noida at 121 per cent from Rs 3900 per sq. ft. to Rs 8601 per sq. ft.). Commenting on the development, Samir Jasuja, Founder-CEO, PropEquity said that the NCR market will continue to outperform other tier 1 cities and see more investment and expansion from branded developers.

NCR Real Estate Sector However, on the supply front, Noida witnessed a decline of 41 per cent. While Gurugram, Ghaziabad and Greater Noida saw an outstanding rise by 222 per cent, 14 per cent and 36 per cent, respectively. In absorption, except Gurugram which rose by 157 per cent, Noida, Ghaziabad and Greater Noida saw a decline of 55 per cent, 31 per cent, and 39 per cent, respectively.

“The unsold inventory has seen a consistent decline across all markets with Noida, Greater Noida and Ghaziabad seeing significant decline. The efforts of the UP government towards resolving the stalled project crisis have helped in reducing the inventory,” Jasuja added. NCR Real Estate Market: Stalled Projects

According to PropEquity, Greater Noida has 167 stalled projects with 74,645 units. Noida has 103 stalled housing projects comprising 41,438 units, while Ghaziabad witnessing 50 stalled projects with 15,278 units. Gurugram has 158 stalled projects with 52,509 units. NCR Real Estate Market: Experts Speak

Amit Modi, Director County Group, said, "Noida’s real estate market has seen unprecedented growth. Market data reveal that property prices have doubled over the last five years, further underscoring Noida’s appeal. As developments continue, Noida’s appeal as a premier investment destination within the NCR is set to strengthen, attracting both end-users and investors alike."

Yash Miglani, MD, Migsun Group, said,"With the upcoming Jewar Airport set to become a major commercial hub, Noida is increasingly seen as an ideal destination for both homebuyers and businesses, particularly for those seeking to upgrade from nearby cities like Faridabad, Ghaziabad, and Delhi."

Saurab Saharan, GMD, HCBS Developments, said, "Real estate developers are witnessing a rise in property sales due to improved connectivity and increasing demand for properties in Gurgaon. Further, Sohna has seen consistent price growth, with property values nearly doubling since 2019, driven by ongoing infrastructure improvements and the post-pandemic market rebound."

Shiwang Suraj, Founder-Director of InfraMantra said, “The return on investment from real estate has surpassed returns from all other investment tools. Demand continues to be robust even at elevated price points as is evident from the fall in property conversion time. The real estate boom has been so pronounced that newer micro-markets on the periphery of Noida, Gurugram and Ghaziabad have been creating the necessary buzz and homebuyer interest.

[varshagahlawat]

The Paras Ekam Homes sector 5 is best residential floors.

About the project Paras Ekam Homes Sector 5

The new Paras Ekam house is the most coveted residential floor. It is on an area of 15 acres of land and in sector 5, Gurgaon. Above all, this project ensures you are of an elite community. 

Moreover, it offers the smallest plot size of 74 sq. yd to the largest, 179 sq. yd. All the floors here are well-ventilated with proper space for plants. 

Above all, all your red tape is on us, and our red carpet is for you. However, it has all the facilities for you, from yoga preachers to sports enthusiasts. However, this beautiful project is a part of Deen Dayal Jan Awas. 

In fact, in this scheme, the Haryana government wanted to upgrade potential city areas. Of course, its location is among the pollution-free places in Gurgaon. Also, it is a hassle-free and peaceful locality.

SITE PLAN OF Paras Ekam Homes Sector 5

 It is spread across 15 acres with high-density colonies. Also, the happy residential floors are available between 1152. 0 Sq. Ft. - 1611. 0 Sq. Ft. The license number of an excellent project is 55 OF 2019. The Harera number is 38 in 2019. You will avail yourself of Stilt + 4 Floors with Separate Registry. Also, you will enjoy 80% of the open space here. This project offers you 288 units.

Amenities of Paras Ekam Homes Sector 5 Sohna

World-class schools and hospitals

The well-maintained cycle track

Moreover, the everyday sunset view

Daily needs shops

The party avenues

Hence, a Well-maintained water supply

Location advantages of Paras Ekam Homes Sector 5 Sohna

At close quarters to IMT Sohna and Sports City

 It is link to KMP Expressway with only

10 mins drive.

 It is close to Delhi Mumbai industrial

corridor

 Many businesses and IT parks are near it

 K R Manglam university is only 2.57 km

Laburnum school is 10 km

ABOUT THE BUILDER OF Paras Ekam Homes DDJAY Plots

The builder of Paras Ekam Plots Sector 5 is Paras build tech. Moreover, the paras buildtech is a verticle of the Paras group. In brief, they are a well-known brand in the real estate world. Their strength lies in people and their constant satisfaction. 

Therefore, they have a capable management system. In this competitive world, our work is transparent yet dynamic. Thus, by challenging our previous best work, we believe in extraordinary work. Hence, Paras Ekam Homes Sector 5 is their new adventure in this journey.

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Delhi Group Housing Societies is an effective development providing housing projects at a reasonable price with all basic amenities in Delhi NCR including important features of Delhi Awas Yojna 2019 .