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The article highlights the discussions at the Rising Bharat Summit 2025, focusing on the challenges and opportunities presented by India's rapid economic growth and real estate development. A central theme is the urgent need to prioritize the liveability of Indian cities, with speakers emphasizing that unchecked growth could lead to unsustainable urban environments. Sahil Vachani, Vice Chairman and Managing Director of Max Estates, underscored the importance of planned approaches, efficient bureaucracy, and government support to build more liveable cities with strong social infrastructure. He pointed to rising pollution in the National Capital Region (NCR) and climate change as significant challenges that require sustainable development practices, city-level awareness, and deeper public-private partnerships (PPPs). This perspective resonates with broader concerns about the environmental impact of urbanization and the need for innovative solutions to mitigate these effects. Vachani's emphasis on liveability goes beyond mere infrastructure; it encompasses the creation of urban spaces that promote well-being, social cohesion, and environmental sustainability. This approach recognizes that economic growth alone is insufficient; it must be accompanied by efforts to improve the quality of life for urban residents. The focus on PPPs is particularly relevant, as it acknowledges the need for collaboration between the public and private sectors to leverage resources and expertise to address complex urban challenges.
Shrilaxmi V S, additional chief executive officer (planning) at Greater Noida Industrial Development Authority (GNIDA), echoed the call for sustainable development, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing green building projects. She stated that GNIDA would prioritize projects that are pro-environment, recognizing that there is little point in creating 'concrete jungles' without considering sustainability. This commitment to green development reflects a growing awareness of the environmental costs of unchecked urbanization and the need for a more holistic approach to urban planning. Shrilaxmi also highlighted the potential of the Noida International Airport in Jewar to stimulate investment and economic growth in the region. The airport is expected to decongest the NCR and attract investors in sectors such as IT, real estate, and industries. This perspective aligns with the broader narrative of India's infrastructure development as a driver of economic growth and regional development. The anticipation surrounding the Noida airport reflects the belief that improved connectivity can unlock new opportunities for investment and job creation. The potential impact of the airport extends beyond the immediate vicinity, with expectations that it will contribute to the overall economic dynamism of the NCR.
Vachani further elaborated on the growth potential of Noida and Greater Noida, describing the NCR as 'very bullish' due to the emergence of these cities as infrastructure hubs. He noted the increasing traction from the manufacturing sector, citing the example of mobile handset manufacturing firm 'Nothing' establishing a presence in Noida. Vachani also highlighted the growing importance of Noida as a center for Global Capability Centers (GCCs) and banking firms, attracting significant investment and driving improvements in social infrastructure. The influx of companies like Microsoft, Google, and Amazon is expected to further enhance the city's social infrastructure and contribute to its overall liveability. The transformation of Noida and Greater Noida into hubs for manufacturing, technology, and financial services reflects India's broader economic diversification and its growing attractiveness as an investment destination. The increasing presence of multinational corporations is a testament to the region's potential and its ability to attract skilled labor and capital. The emphasis on social infrastructure improvements is crucial, as it recognizes the need to create a supportive environment for businesses and residents alike.
The article also touches upon the development of 'New Noida' and a multimodal logistics hub, aimed at catering to the growing demand for land for industries, logistics, and real estate in the Noida-Greater Noida region. Shrilaxmi explained that 'New Noida' is being planned near the confluence of key transportation corridors, including the Eastern and Western Freight Corridors, the Yamuna Expressway, and the Eastern Peripheral Expressway (EPE). This strategic location is intended to facilitate efficient movement of goods and support the growth of industries and logistics companies. The multimodal logistics hub, being developed under the Integrated Industrial Township Greater Noida Limited (IITGNL) project, is designed as a smart township with plug-and-play infrastructure and an automatic solid waste management system. The focus is on attracting high-tech industries and IT companies to the region. This initiative reflects a forward-looking approach to urban planning, incorporating elements of sustainability and smart technology to create a modern and efficient industrial ecosystem. The emphasis on integrated logistics and infrastructure is crucial for enhancing India's competitiveness and attracting foreign investment. The development of 'New Noida' and the multimodal logistics hub is expected to further solidify the region's position as a key economic hub in northern India.
Max Estates' portfolio of 12 million square feet, including delivered and under-construction projects, underscores the company's commitment to the NCR region. Vachani reiterated the company's focus on creating developments that promote both living and working well, reflecting a holistic approach to real estate development. The company raised Rs 800 crore via QIPs in 2024, demonstrating investor confidence in its strategy and growth prospects. The company's focus on the NCR region reflects the belief that the region offers significant opportunities for growth and development. The emphasis on creating developments that promote both living and working well aligns with the broader theme of the article, which emphasizes the importance of liveability and sustainability. The successful fundraising efforts indicate the company's financial strength and its ability to execute its growth plans. In conclusion, the article highlights the key discussions and perspectives shared at the Rising Bharat Summit 2025 regarding the challenges and opportunities associated with India's rapid urbanization. The emphasis on liveability, sustainability, and infrastructure development reflects a growing recognition of the need for a more holistic and integrated approach to urban planning. The development of projects like the Noida International Airport, 'New Noida,' and the multimodal logistics hub underscores the region's potential as a key economic hub in northern India. The success of companies like Max Estates, and the investments being made by major technology and manufacturing firms, further contribute to the positive outlook for the NCR region and its ability to create a more liveable and sustainable urban environment.
Source: Making cities more liveable should be our goal, says Max Estates’ Sahil Vachani