Of the estimated shortage of 24.71 million at the beginng of the 11th five year plan, more than 98 per cent accounts for economically sections alone, said Kiran Dhingra, Secretary in the ministry.

"In the great rush of the real estatre, the interests of the urban and rural poor are getting further constrained", she said while laying the foundation stone of a Rs 300 crore Hudco project.

With growth in urbanization, land prices have touched a record high due to massive real estate activities but allocation of land for the poor was further reduced, Dhingra said adding lack of adequate recoveries and cap on government guarantees have further discouraged local and state governments to take up major housing schemes for the poor.

Therefore, the government is taking steps to provide affordable housing to the economically weaker sections of society in urban areas, she said.

A comprehensive programme under JNNURM for affordable housing for the poor in cities and town with special attention to the needs of slum-dwellers is being undertaken, Dhingra said.