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Time of India
a day ago
- Politics
- Time of India
Punjab cabinet approves land pooling policy
CHANDIGARH : The Punjab Cabinet on Monday gave its nod to the Land Pooling Policy with Cabinet minister Aman Arora asserting that not even a single yard will be forcibly acquired from land owners. The Cabinet meeting, chaired by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann , was held here. After the meeting, renewable energy minister Arora slammed the opposition parties for allegedly misleading people about the state government's Land Pooling Policy for the past several days. Arora claimed that there is no better Land Pooling Policy than this one, not only in the state but also in the country. Pointing towards the opposition parties, Arora said they were trying to mislead people about the Policy that farmers' land will be forcibly acquired by the state government. "I want to make it clear that not even a single yard will be acquired (by the state government)," he said, adding that the Cabinet approved the Land Pooling Policy. Under this policy, land owners can give their land either to the state government or a builder or they can develop the land on their own, he said. In the first phase, this Policy will be implemented in 27 big cities, the minister said while speaking to reporters here. Attacking the previous governments, Arora alleged that they framed such policies which only benefited the land mafia and promoted vested interests. Giving details, Arora said under this Policy, a land owner will be given a 1,000 square yards of residential plot and a 200 square yards of commercial plot in fully-developed land in lieu of one acre of land. He further said if anybody contributes nine acres of land, he will be given three acres of land for developing a group housing. It meant that one-third of pooled land will be returned to the land owner, he said. Opposition parties and some farmer groups have been targeting the AAP government, claiming that it has proposed to acquire 24,311 acres of land in Ludhiana to develop new urban estates. The state government had earlier said the Land Pooling Policy was designed to foster transparent and planned urban development across the state.
Hindustan Times
2 days ago
- Business
- Hindustan Times
Punjab cabinet approves land pooling policy
The Punjab cabinet on Monday gave its nod to the land pooling policy in a meeting chaired by chief minister Bhagwant the policy will be launched in 27 cities and towns of the state, the government said. The policy was given clearance amidst vocal protests by farm unions and opposition parties. According to the government, the new policy is aimed at curbing illegal colonies in the state, which as per a survey have crossed 14,000 in number. Addressing a press conference, renewable energy minister Aman Arora informed the mediapersons that the new policy involves landowners, promoters, and companies as stakeholders in the development process. 'The revised scheme has been rationalised to benefit small and marginal farmers significantly, offering more options to landowners, which will boost group housing and planned development, ultimately benefiting the common man,' Arora said. Farmers can voluntarily offer their land for development and, in return, receive a residential plot and a commercial site in lieu of one acre of land, the minister added. As per the policy, for every one acre of land contributed to the developer, the owner will receive a 1,000-square-yard residential plot and a 200-square-yard commercial plot. 'There will be no exploitation of farmers, as they will benefit as private developers, farmers can continue farming or choose to sell it. There will be no forced acquisition as it used to happen in the past,' said Arora, adding that nothing will proceed without the farmer's consent (NOC) and the land will be given to the government authority. Replying to a question, Arora clarified that the policy has been launched on a voluntary basis left to the discretion of the farmer and the land owners. 'Farmers will have the choice to develop the land themselves and work like an entrepreneur or give the land to the state government authority or a private developer,' he said. 'If a person/farmer/landowner contributes nine acres of land, three acres will be returned to the owner for developing a group housing society—meaning one-third of the pooled land is returned to the owner,' the minister added. Arora explained that until the owners receive the residential and commercial sites, they will be paid ₹30,000 per acre per year for up to three years and the land owner would not be under binding as was in the land pooling policy launched by the previous governments that he cannot move out of the agreement while the development by the government was underway. 'The farmer can quit the scheme at the time of his choice,' he said. 'This policy brings an end to land mafia rule and there will be a complete ban enforced on illegal colonies,' Arora asserted. Partial surrender allowed The cabinet also approved the partial surrender and partial cancellation of licenses issued to colonies under the Punjab Apartment and Property Regulation Act (PAPRA), 1995. A policy in this regard was notified on March 10 concerning the surrender of licenses for developing colonies under the PAPRA Act and approvals for industrial parks. This decision allows for partial surrender of licensed areas, subject to some conditions. To encourage allottees and bidders of residential, commercial, and other property plots to make lump sum payments of 75% of the total amount, the cabinet approved a series of incentives. A 15% discount on the cost of the plot/site will be offered to allottees who make a lump sum payment. 'This measure is expected to ensure consolidated revenue for the state government while also reducing the number of defaulters,' the government said. Hike in EDC, CLU charges To boost revenue generation, the cabinet also approved an increase in external development charges (EDC), change of land use charges (CLU), license fees (LF), and other charges applicable to real estate promoters. The promoters are required to pay EDC under the PAPRA Act and for mega projects under the Punjab government's Mega Project Policy. The last revision of these charges was notified on May 6, 2016, with a provision to increase the rates by 10% annually starting April 1. However, the government waived the annual hike for several years. The charges have been increased from April 1, 2020, and have gone up by approximately 77% since 2016. Going forward, CLU charges, EDC, and license fees will be increased by 10% annually, compounded from April 1, 2026. Ploy to usurp farmer's land: SAD Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) spokesman Arshdeep Singh Kler on Monday said that the AAP government led by Bhagwant Mann was usurping farmers' land. 'It was shocking to see that the AAP government was going to acquire agricultural land and sell it to builders and developers. It is most unfortunate to see that the present AAP government, which had promised the moon to the farmers, was now trying to take away fertile land from them at throw-away prices, Kler said adding that Akali Dal would stand with the farmers and would ensure that their land was not forcibly taken away from them.
Time of India
2 days ago
- Politics
- Time of India
Punjab cabinet clears ‘voluntary' land pooling policy for 27 cities
Chandigarh: Amid criticism by opposition parties and some farmer groups, the Punjab cabinet on Monday approved a new land pooling policy aimed at curbing illegal colonies and the land mafia, while ensuring direct profit for farmers. Minister Aman Arora assured that not even "one square yard of land will be forcibly acquired" and the "participation would be entirely voluntary". T he scheme will initially be rolled out in 27 cities in the state. Slamming the opposition parties for allegedly misleading people about the policy, Arora said, "Attempts have been made to confuse landowners, but it's the best one drafted anywhere in the country. Farmers will have the freedom to decide whether to hand over their land to the state or a builder, or to develop it themselves. Unlike previous governments that banned the sale and purchase of notified land—often to benefit the land mafia and political leaders—those restrictions have now been removed. " Additionally, the policy offers compensation of Rs 30,000 per acre annually during the three-year development phase, with the govt aiming to complete the process within 1 to 1.5 years, wherever feasible. "Under this policy, the farmers have the option to turn into developers and entrepreneurs. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Live Comfortably: 60 m² Prefab Bungalow for Seniors in Qsyr Almarnh Pre Fabricated Homes | Search Ads Search Now Undo It's a self-sustaining model and infrastructure like the outer roads and sewerage treatment plants (STPS) will be provided by the state," said Arora. The minister further said that a written consent (NOC) will be taken from farmers, and land will be given directly to the govt, not to private developers. Govt will fully develop the land and return plots to farmers and these will include all facilities like roads, electricity and water connections, sewerage pipes, streetlights, and parks. No private developers or land mafia can exploit farmers as the policy ensures that farmers are protected from exploitation by private players," he said. An official spokesperson added that the value of these plots will be up to four times the market rate. Each farmer will receive a written document from the govt, and this letter will clearly mention the farmer's full entitlement. Farmers can choose to receive two plots of 500 square yards each and they will have complete freedom to keep or sell them. The benefits are not limited to just one acre and the more land a farmer contributes, the greater the profit will be, he said. He further said the revised scheme had been rationalised to particularly benefit small and marginal farmers. "There will be additional benefits through partnership as if a farmer contributes nine acres, they will receive three acres of developed group housing land...," he said. Meanwhile, farmers in Ludhiana have been protesting against the plan to acquire over 24,000 acres of fertile agricultural land across 44 villages in their district, labelling the move a "land grab in disguise." CONDITIONAL PARTIAL SURRENDER The cabinet also approved the partial surrender and partial cancellation of licences issued to colonies under the Punjab Apartment and Property Regulation Act (PAPRA), 1995, as well as the partial cancellation of approvals granted to industrial park projects. A policy was notified on March 10, 2025, concerning the surrender of licences for developing colonies under the PAPRA Act and approvals for industrial parks, said the spokesperson. LUMP-SUM PAYMENTS To encourage allottees and bidders of residential, commercial, and other property plots to make lump-sum payments of 75% of the total amount, the cabinet approved a series of incentives. A 15% discount on the cost of the plot/site will be offered to allottees who make a lump sum payment. CABINET HIKES EDC, CLU CHARGES To further facilitate the state's holistic development and boost revenue generation, the cabinet approved an increase in External Development Charges (EDC), change of land use charges (CLU), licence fees (LF), and other charges applicable to real estate promoters. The last revision of these charges was notified on May 6, 2016, with a provision to increase the rates by 10% annually starting April 1. However, the govt waived the annual hike for several years. The charges have been increased from April 1, 2020, and have gone up by approximately 77% since 2016. EXISTING LAND POOLING FOR ONLY MOHALI Arora said the existing land pooling scheme was meant for only Mohali, which resulted in mushrooming of unauthorised colonies. "This policy is for the entire state… Now farmers will be given land to develop group housing. Besides, for land more than 50 acres, the landowners can develop their own colonies," he said.
Pink Villa
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Pink Villa
Malaika Arora makes 50s look fabulous in Rs 14,000 backless red slip dress on her Goa Getaway
Malaika Arora, the 51-year-old glamorous diva, doesn't know how not to slay and leave her fans smitten. The fitness maven took to Instagram to post a few dreamy snaps from her Goa Getaway, which are envy-inducing and inspiring at the same time. The actress can be seen flaunting a gorgeous red slip dress that can make anyone stop and stare in awe. What makes her dress so tempting? Let's dissect! The reality TV show judge seems to be having the time of her life on a delightful short trip to Goa, sipping cocktails, and exuding her apsara-like vibe. Arora wore a satin maxi dress from the brand Zumel and Co, worth Rs 14,000. Although satin red isn't a new concept in the romantic dresses catalogue, the tailoring of this dress is what makes it so irresistibly gorgeous. The dance maven's maxi dress featured a deep V-neckline with spaghetti straps, making it the perfect sultry staple to flaunt on a lazy getaway evening. The satin fabric cinched at the bodice, wrapping Arora's silhouette gracefully and doing justice to her arduously built form. The dress then cascaded into a flowy, sheer skirt that reached to the ankles, creating a dreamy look. Malaika Arora's backless dress The main highlight of Malaika Arora's dress was the backless silhouette, which featured spaghetti straps criss-crossed and tied loosely, creating a surreal and alluring effect. The diva skipped any accessory for her red enchantress look and just flaunted a couple of rings and her breathtaking, blood red manicure that perfectly complemented her romance-infused fit. Malaika ditched any makeup for her dinner night sway and just flaunted her natural skin, keeping her look raw and enchanting. She tied her hair up in a messy bun, delivering an effortlessly stunning aura. The 2000s dance icon's other looks from her short trip included a laid-back, monochromatic white outfit, styled with a multicolored bralette. She also left her fans catching their breath in an alluring zebra-print bikini, which makes us conclude that Malaika Arora is indeed ageing like a fine wine.
Hans India
3 days ago
- Politics
- Hans India
Ludhiana bypoll litmus test for AAP in Punjab, says BJP leader Tarun Chugh
BJP national General Secretary Tarun Chugh said on Sunday that Punjab is facing a debt of over Rs 4 lakh crore, while campaigning for Jeewan Gupta, the BJP candidate for the June 19 Ludhiana (West) bypoll. He also gave a call to expose the theatrical actions of the AAP government in Punjab. Speaking to the media, Chugh said the bypoll is a litmus test for Punjab, which is currently suffering under AAP's chaotic and directionless governance. 'Punjab is facing a grave law and order crisis and due to complete financial mismanagement, the state is reeling under a debt of more than Rs 4 lakh crore,' Chugh said. He added that Ludhiana, once hailed as the industrial capital of India, is now battling a lack of basic infrastructure, a surge in organised crime, and rampant drug abuse. Investors are fleeing to other states, while the youth of Punjab feel betrayed by AAP's empty promises of jobs and prosperity. Chugh hit out at Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, calling him a puppet in the hands of Arvind Kejriwal. He said, 'Just like the people of Delhi rejected Kejriwal, the people of Punjab will do the same to Bhagwant Mann in 2027.' BJP candidate Jeewan Gupta, while thanking the party leadership for entrusting him with this opportunity, said he is hopeful and determined. He said the business community in Punjab is particularly suffering under the Mann regime due to the absence of a clear, consistent industrial policy. He assured that with public support, he will raise every voice that AAP has silenced in Punjab. The bypoll for the Ludhiana (West) Assembly was necessitated by the demise of Gurpreet Gogi Bassi, who sustained a gunshot wound to his head at his house in January. The election will be held on June 17, with the counting of ballots on June 23 along with four other Assembly seats -- two in Gujarat and one each in Kerala and West Bengal. The state Aam Aadmi Party in February announced Rajya Sabha MP Sanjeev Arora as its candidate for the by-election, while the main Opposition Congress has fielded former Minister Bharat Bhushan Ashu, who is being accused in a multi-crore foodgrain transportation and labour cartage tender scam. The Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) has nominated Parupkar Singh Ghuman for the bypoll. By fielding the sitting MP, speculations in political circles are rife that AAP convener Arvind Kejriwal, who's active in the state politics after facing humiliating defeat not only of his party but his bastion in Delhi Assembly elections, is going to the Rajya Sabha in his place in case Arora wins the bypoll. However, the party has so far denied that Kejriwal is moving to the Rajya Sabha. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) in October 2024 carried out a raid at the residence of AAP candidate Arora in Ludhiana as part of a money laundering probe linked to a land 'fraud' case. The raid was in connection with a chunk of land that was allotted to Ritesh Properties and Industries Limited, one of the companies owned by Arora, by the state government for an industrial project, but it was used for a residential project. In the 2022 Assembly elections, AAP's legislator Gogi, who joined the party in the run-up to the polls, defeated two-time legislator Bharat Bhushan Ashu in Ludhiana (West), a traditional Congress stronghold urban seat.
