Access to Entitlements

We support underserved communities to access essential government services and secure ownership to their land.

People gathered outside ward office number 2 with Gujarati-language signage.

Our initiatives

We take action where it matters most

Housing and Entitlement to Land

Context

Nearly one-third of Bhuj’s population—about 14,000 families—live in slums without secure land tenure or access to essential services. Many of these settlements are over 40 years old yet remain unrecognised. Outdated policies and complex processes prevent residents from accessing government housing schemes.

HIC works to change this by enabling access to land and housing through participatory, community-led processes that prioritise dignity, ownership, affordability, and sustainability.

Our Interventions

Facilitated the construction of 314 homes in Ramdev Nagar, Bhimrao Nagar, and GIDC settlements, through an owner-driven approach.
Helped 1800+ families to file applications for land titles under Gujarat’s 2003 Government Resolution (GR); ongoing advocacy seeks to revise outdated income limits.
Secured land lease for 191 homes to be relocated under PMAY; proposals for 6 more settlements underway.
A CBO called Zameen Ane Awas Adhikar Manch (ZAAAM) consisting of representatives of residents of informal settlements from across the city, was formed. They have been actively working on ground towards mobilising people to file applications for land titles, while also advocating with the district and state governments to address the matter.

Our Impact

314 families now live in formal, dignified, and safe homes.
The entire housing project of 314 houses was implemented through loans disbursed by women-led SHGs. In the years since it has led to the empowerment and a rise in status of women in the community.
A safe home has resulted in an increase in income, agency and education of the community.
20–30% cost savings achieved through non-contractor construction.
Project recognised as a Best Practice by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (2015).
Assisted 2000+ families across other informal settlements of Bhuj to file applications for land titles under Gujarat’s 2003 Government Resolution (GR), thus at least ensuring first claimant safeguard.
The formation of ZAAAM has given a face to the struggle of informal settlement dwellers to advocate for the ownership of the land on which they have lived for generations.