World Habitat Day 2025 was observed globally on October 6 — the first Monday of October — with the theme 'Urban Crisis Response'. The day, designated by the UN, focuses on the state of towns and cities and the right of all to adequate shelter. For India, the theme holds special relevance: Indian cities house 36% of the population, contribute over 60% of GDP, and MoHUA has reported PMAY-U assessed housing demand of 112.24 lakh houses under a demand-driven urban housing scheme.