The Indian government, in collaboration with the Delhi government, has announced plans to regularise properties in 1,511 unauthorised colonies in Delhi, providing legal ownership to residents on an 'as is, where is' basis. This decision, made public by Union Housing and Urban Affairs Minister Manohar Lal, aims to simplify property registration by eliminating the need for approved layout plans. Instead, residents can submit building plans created by architects empanelled with the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD). This move is part of the Pradhan Mantri-Unauthorised Colonies in Delhi Awas Adhikar Yojana (PM-UDAY) initiated in 2019, which seeks to confer ownership rights to residents of such colonies. The latest rules are expected to benefit approximately 4.5 million residents and cover most of the identified unauthorised colonies, while excluding certain areas like those in the Yamuna floodplains and forest regions. The application process will commence on April 24 via the SWAGAM portal, allowing residents to apply individually or in clusters. Despite the positive implications for residents, experts have pointed out potential legal challenges and the need for a dedicated town and country planning department in Delhi to ensure effective urban development.