Punjab's Land Pooling Policy: What Makes It a Landmark Move for Landowners?
Even those with larger land holdings — 50 acres or more — aren't left out. If multiple landowners pool their land together...
Punjab’s Land Pooling Policy: What Makes It a Landmark Move for Landowners?
Chandigarh: In a significant step toward urban transformation with dignity, the Punjab Cabinet, under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, has approved the much-anticipated Land Pooling Policy, aimed at ensuring development without dispossession. But what truly makes this policy stand out is its landowner-first approach, redefining how land partnerships with the government are handled.
What’s Best in This Policy? Freedom, Not Force
One of the most commendable features of this policy is its non-coercive structure. Cabinet Minister Aman Arora clarified that not even one yard of land will be acquired forcefully. Landowners will have complete freedom to decide whether they want to hand over land to the government, collaborate with a builder, or retain it themselves.
This ensures that the landowner remains in control, cutting through the fear and misinformation being spread by opposing voices. The policy is designed to empower, not pressure.
Phase One: 27 Cities, Farmer-Focused Urban Growth
The first phase of the policy will be implemented in 27 cities, and it comes with a clear assurance — there will be no compulsory land acquisition. Instead, landowners voluntarily contribute land and receive a developed portion in return.
For example, for every acre given under the pooling scheme, the landowner will receive:
1,000 square yards for housing
200 square yards for commercial use
This return isn't just symbolic — it provides real opportunities for economic activity, home-building, or future investment.
Flexibility and Ownership Intact
What sets this policy apart from previous ones is its flexibility. Landowners are not bound to sell or surrender their property — they have the right to keep, sell, or develop it as they wish. The earlier restriction (in case of illegal colonies) that discouraged buying and selling has now been removed, reinforcing that the land remains a personal asset, not a burden.
Bigger Landowners, Bigger Share
Even those with larger land holdings — 50 acres or more — aren’t left out. If multiple landowners pool their land together, the share is calculated proportionately and each contributor receives their just share of the returned developed land.
For instance, if someone gives 9 acres, they get 3 acres back in developed land, where they can build group housing or start commercial projects. The reward is proportionate and tangible, creating an incentive to participate without compulsion.
Not a Business-as-Usual Policy
Aman Arora highlighted that this is not a scheme favoring builders or developers, unlike past instances where farmers were sidelined. Instead, it puts farmers and local landowners at the center of urban growth. It reflects a shift in policy where governments collaborate with citizens, not corporations.
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