Farmers Across Punjab Hold Tractor Rallies Against Land Pooling Policy
Thousands of farmers, led by the Samyukt Kisan Morcha, participated in massive tractor marches across Punjab to protest the state government's proposed land pooling policy. The policy aims to acquire 65,533 acres of agricultural land across 116 villages for creating residential and industrial areas. Farmers are demanding a complete withdrawal of the scheme, arguing it threatens their livelihoods and is designed to benefit corporate interests by acquiring their fertile lands.
Unpacked:
Unlike traditional land acquisition, where the state acquires land outright for compensation, Punjab's land pooling policy promises voluntary participation, returning developed residential and commercial plots to landowners instead of cash. This aims to make landowners stakeholders in future development rather than simply compensating them for lost land.
Despite being labeled 'voluntary,' farmers and critics fear indirect pressure, lack of adequate safeguards, and potential loss of fertile land. They argue the scheme disproportionately benefits urban and corporate interests, risks their livelihoods, and may lack sufficient legal protections against future disputes or changes.
The government amended the policy to increase annual compensation, extend plot allotments to smaller landholders, offer larger residential plots in lieu of commercial plots, and guarantee a higher livelihood allowance until land is developed. No charges besides external development fees are levied for large pooled areas, aiming to address farmers' economic concerns.
The policy aims to promote planned urban growth, curb illegal colonies, and prevent land mafia exploitation, while offering farmers high returns and legal guarantees. Critics, however, claim it diverts fertile farmland, lacks transparency, and could become a 'land-grabbing' scheme, favoring corporate entities over small farmers.