CHANDIGARH: The Punjab Cabinet has approved revisions to its land pooling policy, with Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann criticizing opposition parties for what he calls misinformation about the scheme.
Mann refuted claims from the opposition that the policy would “rob” farmers of their land, asserting that the agricultural community is supportive of the initiative.
Last month, the Punjab Cabinet endorsed this land pooling policy, ensuring that no land will be forcibly acquired from owners.
After a Cabinet meeting, Mann stated that the opposition’s assertion that land registries will cease once a notification is issued is unfounded. He explained that if an urban estate spanning 140 acres is being developed, and the owners of 15 acres do not agree, it does not restrict farmers from taking loans or mortgaging their land.
Mann emphasized that until urban development begins on a parcel of land, farmers participating in the land pooling scheme can continue farming on it. They will receive Rs 50,000 per acre as initial compensation, escalating to Rs 1 lakh per acre once the government takes possession.
“In cases where land development exceeds one year, farmers will see a 10% annual increase on that Rs 1 lakh,” he added, referencing amendments made following farmer suggestions.
Mann characterized the land pooling policy as “historic,” claiming it ensures fairness to farmers who will become stakeholders rather than victims of the scheme.
Under the policy, landowners are entitled to a 1,000 sq. yards residential plot and a 200 sq. yards commercial plot for every acre surrendered, as previously stated by the government.
If a farmer declines the commercial plot, they may instead receive an additional 600 sq. yards in residential land, totaling 1,600 sq. yards.
Chief Secretary K A P Sinha asserted that farmers will still be able to secure loans using their letter of intent, ensuring they won’t face financial losses.
An official statement highlighted that the key amendment provides farmers with a livelihood allowance of Rs 1 lakh annually until their land is developed, a significant increase from the previous Rs 20,000 offered by earlier governments.
No restrictions will apply to the buying or selling of land, allowing farmers full freedom to transact as they wish, as stated.
These amendments aim to streamline the land collection process managed by the Department of Housing and Urban Development, making it more efficient and inclusive.
The Punjab government previously introduced the land pooling policy for 2025 to involve landowners, promoters, and companies in urban development, encouraging collaborative engagement.
To refine the policy, the government held discussions with village sarpanches, union representatives, and farmers, incorporating feedback into the revised policy for better outcomes.
As per the updated policy, landowners surrendering land will receive alternatives of 125 sq. yards residential and 25 sq. yards commercial land per kanal, with no fees other than external development charges for land pooling of 50 acres or more.
Additionally, those giving up commercial lands will receive three times the residential area in exchange.
The AAP government has faced criticism from opposition parties labeling the land pooling policy as a scheme to exploit farmers. Notably, the Samyukta Kisan Morcha has also voiced opposition to the initiative.
Following the policy’s approval last month, Mann reiterated its purpose: promoting transparent and structured urban development throughout the state.
