Uttarakhand Cabinet approves stricter land laws to protect resources and identity

The Uttarakhand Cabinet on Wednesday approved the ‘Bhoo Kanoon’ (land laws), introducing stringent regulations on the purchase and sale of agricultural, horticultural, and residential land by non-residents in the state's 11 hill districts.

The amended land law bill is set to be tabled during the ongoing budget session, which is scheduled to conclude on February 24.

Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami emphasized that the government is committed to safeguarding the state's cultural heritage and the rights of its citizens.

“Respecting the long-standing demands and sentiments of the people of the State, today the Cabinet has approved strict land laws. This historic step will protect the resources, cultural heritage, and rights of the citizens of the State, and will play a significant role in maintaining the original identity of the province,” Mr. Dhami stated.

He further asserted that the introduction of ‘Bhoo Kanoon’ reflects the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government’s efforts to preserve Uttarakhand’s original character.

Previously, individuals from across the country could purchase up to 12.5 acres of agricultural land in Uttarakhand, with provisions to extend this limit in special cases. Land transactions for industrial and commercial purposes required separate permissions. For residential purposes, there was no restriction on land size, and purchases were allowed in all areas of the state.

Blanket Ban on Agricultural Land Purchase

With the new amendments, a blanket ban on the purchase of agricultural land will be enforced in Dehradun, Pauri Garhwal, Tehri Garhwal, Uttarkashi, Rudraprayag, Chamoli, Nainital, Pithoragarh, Champawat, Almora, and Bageshwar districts.

However, agricultural and horticultural land purchases will still be permitted in Haridwar and Udham Singh Nagar districts.