In a major decision that resonates strongly with Punjab’s agrarian community, the state Cabinet under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has decided to denotify the Land Pooling Policy, effectively scrapping it. The announcement was made after Cabinet deliberations, marking a victory for farmers who had been opposing the policy for months.
CM Bhagwant Mann-Led Punjab Cabinet Withdraws Land Pooling Policy
The Land Pooling Policy was originally introduced as part of urban expansion and infrastructure development plans, where landowners pooled their land for government-led projects in return for a portion of the developed property. However, many farmers feared loss of control over ancestral land, reduced compensation benefits, and uncertainty over long-term returns.
CM Bhagwant Mann emphasized that his administration is committed to “governance through dialogue”
Over the past several months, farmer organisations had held numerous meetings, protests, and delegations urging the state government to reconsider. CM Bhagwant Mann emphasized that his administration is committed to “governance through dialogue”, stating that the will of the people, especially those who feed the nation, will always be respected.
Government officials have confirmed that the withdrawal of the policy will not halt development. Instead, alternative land acquisition and development models will be explored, ones that safeguard farmer rights while still enabling infrastructure growth. These models will focus on voluntary participation, higher transparency, and assured benefits for landowners.
The decision has drawn praise from various farmer unions and political observers, with many calling it an example of responsive governance. Rural communities across Punjab have welcomed the move, saying it restores their faith in the government’s promise to protect agricultural interests.
Political analysts believe this decision could strengthen CM Mann’s rapport with the farming community ahead of future policy rollouts, while also setting a precedent for more consultative governance in the state.
