Bhubaneswar, Jan 20 (IANS) The Odisha government is mulling introducing a comprehensive and updated law on land administration in the forthcoming session of the state assembly to replace multiple existing Acts related to land, revenue, and disaster management.
Speaking to media persons on Tuesday, the Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari said the move is intended to modernise the legal framework, noting that several current laws date back to the 1980s and no longer address present-day challenges.
Emphasising that land management is the top priority of the state government, Pujari said, “The time has come to do away with outdated Acts such as the Odisha Government Land Settlement Act and the Prevention of Government Land Encroachment Act. We need a unified and contemporary law that reflects today’s development needs and the vision of the new government for a developed and self-reliant Odisha.”
Highlighting the growing demand for land for infrastructure and public services, the minister said various sectors require land for expansion and development.
These include new railway lines, national highway projects, airports, state highways, educational institutions, and healthcare facilities.
“Land is the foundation of development. Every department of the state government, as well as central agencies, requires land to carry forward projects that benefit the people,” he added.
Pujari said the proposed law will ensure optimal and transparent utilisation of land, prevent misuse, and prioritise allocation for public welfare.
The government also plans to reclaim land previously allotted to individuals or organisations but left unused or misutilised, bringing it back under the Revenue Department for redevelopment in the public interest.
The Minister emphasised that the new legislation will aim to balance development needs with equitable access, including provisions to support landless individuals, while ensuring that land across the state is put to productive and lawful use.
–IANS
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