Retirement Housing Policy (RHP) Haryana – India’s First Senior-Focused Housing Policy

As India’s elderly population continues to grow, so does the need for dignified, safe, and well-equipped living spaces tailored to their lifestyle and health needs. Traditionally, joint families and multi-generational homes were the norm. But with urbanization and changing family structures, many seniors now find themselves seeking secure, community-driven spaces where they can retire peacefully.

In a thoughtful move, the Government of Haryana has introduced a dedicated Retirement Housing Policy. It not only addresses the housing gap for senior citizens but also sets a strong example for other states.

Why This Policy Was Needed


India is home to over 140 million senior citizens, a number expected to nearly double by 2050. Yet, urban housing and infrastructure have rarely prioritized the specific needs of this growing group.

With more nuclear families and increased work migration, many seniors are now living independently. They need spaces that offer:

  • Safety and accessibility
  • On-site healthcare and assistance
  • Opportunities for active and social living

Haryana, particularly cities like Gurugram and Karnal, has already seen increasing demand for retirement homes. This new policy is a timely response to that need.

What Haryana’s Retirement Housing Policy (RHP) Offers


The policy aims to enable senior-friendly residential communities that are both functional and future-ready. It lays out clear design, safety, healthcare, and regulatory standards to ensure senior citizens can live independently, comfortably, and with dignity.

Project Zoning and Land Area


Retirement housing projects are permitted only in designated residential zones, with plot sizes ranging from 0.5 acres to 10 acres. This helps maintain proper city planning while ensuring there’s enough space to create integrated senior-friendly environments with green zones, healthcare facilities, and community spaces.

Accessibility and Location Requirements


The site for each retirement housing project must have direct access to a road that is at least 12 meters wide. This enhances overall accessibility, ensures smooth movement of emergency vehicles, and connects seniors easily to nearby city infrastructure.

Design Standards: FAR and Ground Coverage


To avoid over-congestion, projects must adhere to a maximum Floor Area Ratio (FAR) of 225 and ground coverage of up to 40 percent. This ensures more open spaces, walking areas, and light-filled residences that support mental and physical well-being for older residents.

Mandatory Community and Wellness Spaces


The policy mandates a minimum 100 square meter dining area, 100 square meter medical room, and at least 500 square meters for recreation. This space is intended for indoor games, exercise, and social activities—key to promoting an active lifestyle and preventing isolation among seniors.

Essential Healthcare and Support Services


All retirement housing projects must include 24×7 ambulance services (equipped with oxygen), physiotherapy and nursing care, and on-site medical tie-ups. This guarantees residents immediate access to emergency care and regular medical support within the premises.

Safety and Surveillance Measures


To ensure safety, the policy makes it compulsory to have CCTV surveillance, trained security personnel, fire safety infrastructure, and emergency alarm systems. These safeguards are critical for vulnerable residents who may have limited mobility or require urgent attention.

Power Backup and Mobility Access


All buildings must provide power backup, especially for essential services like medical rooms and lifts. Projects with multiple floors are required to have wheelchair-accessible elevators, making the entire premises senior-friendly and barrier-free.

Regulatory Framework and Legal Safeguards


Developers must register projects under the RERA Act, 2016, and operate within the Haryana Apartments Ownership Act, 1983. They are also required to sign a tripartite agreement with service providers and buyers to clearly define service obligations, pricing, and resident rights.

Grievance Redressal and Monitoring


A dedicated digital portal will be set up for residents to lodge and track complaints. Additionally, district-level monitoring committees, including municipal officials, developers, RWAs, and healthcare partners, will conduct regular checks to ensure compliance with the policy.

Simplified Approvals for Developers


To attract investment into this much-needed segment, the policy allows for single-window clearance and faster approvals for retirement housing projects. This is intended to reduce bureaucratic delays and encourage experienced developers to deliver quality senior living communities.

What It Means for Seniors and the Real Estate Sector


This policy is a welcome step for both senior citizens and developers.

  • For Seniors: It ensures access to homes designed for their comfort, care, and community needs
  • For Developers: It opens up a promising and untapped market, especially in NCR and emerging tier-2 cities

Challenges That May Arise


While the intent is strong, there are some possible roadblocks:

  • Difficulty in acquiring large plots in urban areas
  • Affordability concerns for middle-income retirees
  • Limited availability of trained caregiving staff

A successful rollout will require coordination between government authorities, private developers, and service providers.

Why Haryana Could Set an Example for Other States


Haryana’s infrastructure, connectivity, and proactive policies already make it an attractive hub for real estate. With this policy, the state could become a pioneer in building dedicated retirement communities.

Its proximity to Delhi NCR, strong hospital networks, and rapidly growing tier-2 cities make it well-positioned to lead the way in senior living.

Wrapping Up


Haryana’s Retirement Housing Policy is beyond real estate reform. It is a compassionate step towards giving seniors the quality of life they deserve.

At Ashiana Senior Living, we have always believed that retirement is not the end of active living. It is the beginning of a new, more relaxed chapter. Our award-winning senior living communities in locations like Bhiwadi have already become happy homes for many seniors who value independence, care, and community.

With Haryana’s new policy opening doors to more such projects, Ashiana is excited to expand its presence and offer thoughtfully planned, senior-focused homes in the state. If you are looking for a place where your loved ones are cared for, engaged, and safe, Ashiana Senior Living is ready to welcome you home.

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Who is eligible to buy homes in these senior communities?

Senior citizens aged 55 and above, or those purchasing for their senior family members, can own units. 70 per cent of the homes must be reserved for seniors.

Yes. The policy mandates the provision of 24/7 healthcare access, emergency response systems, and daily support services.

Affordability will vary by project, but the policy encourages development across income segments. Some communities may offer rental options, too.

Yes. If one member of the couple is a senior citizen, they can usually reside together. Project-specific guidelines may apply.

About The Author

Ashiana, Ashiana Housing build homes. Homes surrounded by vast green spaces and fresh breeze. Homes cocooned in secured gated complexes. Homes where futures are forged and there are opportunities to grow. And Homes in environments brimming with healthy activity, trust and respect. At heart, we build communities with care.

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