The Punjab government’s new Land Pooling Policy is being hailed as a game-changer for the state’s farmers, promising significant financial benefits, full protection of land rights, and a decisive end to exploitation by private developers and land mafias.
Key features of policy
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100% voluntary participation
No land will be acquired forcibly. Farmers have complete freedom to decide whether to give their land to the government or retain it for agriculture or sale. All development will require the farmer’s written consent (NOC).
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Direct dealings with government
Farmers will only deal with the government—not private developers. This ensures transparency and eliminates the risk of exploitation by the land mafia.
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Return of developed plots
Instead of monetary compensation alone, farmers will receive developed residential and commercial plots in return for their land. These plots will have all modern amenities—roads, water, electricity, sewerage, streetlights, and parks.
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Significantly higher returns
Market estimates suggest farmers can earn up to 400% returns on their land investment. For example, for every acre contributed, a farmer receives a 1,000-square-yard residential plot and a 200-square-yard commercial plot. At current market rates (₹30,000 per sq yd for residential and ₹60,000 per sq yd for commercial), the total value can reach ₹4.2 crore—much higher than selling at today’s market rate.
Full ownership and flexibility: Farmers are free to keep, sell, or lease their allotted plots. The more land contributed, the greater the benefit. Group participation is also encouraged—if multiple farmers pool land together, they receive proportionate developed land in return.
Legal safeguards: All agreements are formalized in writing, with each farmer receiving a government-issued document specifying their share. No work proceeds without written approval from the landowner.
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Fixing the loopholes
The policy is designed to curb the influence of land mafias and prevent the creation of illegal colonies that lack basic amenities. Only government-approved, planned development will be allowed, ensuring long-term value and security for landowners.
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A sustainable future for farmers
Punjab’s Chief Minister and Finance Minister have emphasized that this policy is not just about land but about securing a sustainable and dignified livelihood for farmers. By making farmers stakeholders in urban development, the policy promises prosperity and a permanent source of income, marking a clear departure from the forced acquisitions and unplanned growth of the past.
Altogether, Punjab’s Land Pooling Policy empowers farmers with choice, transparency, and substantial financial gain, placing the benefits of development directly into their hands while protecting their rights and interests.