Real estate bill a priority, says Vyas

The real estate bill was a "priority" for the government, Housing and Urban Poverty Alleviation Minister Girija Vyas said Tuesday adding that her ministry would endeavour to bring it to parliament during the monsoon session.

Vyas, who assumed charge of her office Tuesday, said she would seek the support of all parties for the bill.

"It (the bill) is a priority. We will try to bring it in coming (monsoon) session. We will seek support of all parties," she said.

The Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Bill, 2013, was approved by the cabinet earlier this month.

The bill seeks to protect the interest of consumers, promote fair play in real estate transactions and to ensure timely execution of projects.

Vyas, who was among the four cabinet ministers and four ministers of state sworn in Monday, said she would strive to address to concerns of the urban poor relating to housing, food and employment.

"The government is enacting the Food Security Bill to meet the food needs of vulnerable sections. Housing needs of urban poor will be taken care of by the Rajiv Awas Yojana and their employment prospects will be boosted by national urban livelihood mission," Vyas said.

The minister said she would seek to accelerate the pace of various schemes.

"We will also take the states on board," Vyas said.