Faridabad farmers unite against state govt’s land pooling plan

The state government is promoting land pooling as the foundation of future development, aiming to establish a new industrial town in Faridabad, along with several new sectors. As part of the ambitious proposal, the Haryana State Industrial and Infrastructure Development Corporation (HSIIDC) plans to acquire 9,000 acres of land across nine villages in Faridabad and Palwal districts to develop an industrial city along the Greenfield Expressway. This city would be strategically connected to the upcoming Noida International Airport.

In parallel, the Haryana Shahari Vikas Pradhikaran (HSVP) would also expand its urban development footprint, acquiring an additional 4,500 acres from various villages to create new residential and commercial sectors.

Which villages will be affected?

The project is expected to impact a large number of villages, including Khedi Kalan, Nacholi, Tajpur, Dhakola, Shahbad, Badarpur Said, Sahupura, Sotai, Sunped, Malerna, Jajaru, Bhainsrawali, Fattupura, Bhuapur, Jasana, Faridpur, Sadpura and Tigaon. The government maintains the plan would transform the economic landscape of these areas.

Why are farmers opposing it?

Despite the government’s assurances, farmers have raised objections to the proposed land acquisition. They argue that while the market rate of land in the region is at least Rs 4 crore per acre, the government is calculating compensation based on a significantly lower rate of Rs 1 crore per acre.

Farmers from 11 villages have launched a campaign against the plan, voicing concerns over what they describe as unfair compensation and lack of transparency in the acquisition process.

What does the government say?

In response to the growing unrest among the farmers of the area, several state as well as Union Ministers have publicly assured the farmers there would be no forceful acquisition of land.

The government has committed to holding meetings with affected communities, listening to their concerns and negotiating mutually acceptable terms.

Officials said the process would be consultative, adding every effort would be made to reach a fair agreement on compensation rates.