Rift among farmers as some agree to take part in land pooling scheme

Even as farm unions continue to voice their opposition to the Punjab Government’s land pooling policy, a section of farmers has given their consent to the scheme.

Officials from the land acquisition authority confirmed receiving approval from landowners willing to part with nearly 80 acres in Patiala Block A and an additional 50 acres in Sher Majra.

Under the policy, for every acre contributed by farmers, they would get a residential plot of 1,000 sq yards, besides a commercial site of 200 sq yards. As per the policy, the government was expecting to acquire 1,450 acres in four villages, namely Sher Majra, Passiana, Chaura and Falauli, but has got consent from farmers for 130 acres so far.

An official said, “Four villages have been divided into two zones. To begin with, we plan to acquire 150 acres in each zone as a trust-building measure. Once farmers see development taking place, they would also join the land pooling policy.”

Sources have said that the farmers had agreed to transfer the land after learning that PUDA was going to acquire the land and planning to build colonies and commercial establishments.

One of the key factors influencing the decision appears to be the promise of lucrative returns — reportedly up to Rs 1 crore per acre — offered under the scheme and assured Rs 1 lakh annual return and cultivation rights in case no development takes place on the land, said one of the PUDA officials dealing with the farmers. “Also, PUDA colonies are high in demand compared to private colonies so the trust factor also works,” said the official. Most consenting farmers are those with large land holdings. However, many of them have chosen to stay away from the public eye, fearing backlash.

Shifting stance

In a significant development, three villages — Nanoki, Sakrali, and Khijarpur — that had passed resolutions against the scheme have now reversed their stance. On Tuesday, representatives from these villages stated that they no longer object to the pooling policy.

The shifting positions reflect a growing divide within the farming community . While farm unions claim the scheme poses a threat to the agrarian structure, others view it an opportunity for economic advancement.