What is Land Pooling?
Land Pooling is a smart method where multiple small landowners voluntarily give their land to a Land Pooling Agency (like DDA in Delhi) for infrastructure development.
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The agency develops roads, drainage, parks, water supply, etc.
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After development, the agency returns a portion (around 60–70%) of the land back to the original owners.
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The remaining 30–40% is used to cover the cost of infrastructure.
Why is Land Pooling Needed?
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After the Land Acquisition Act of 2013, land compensation costs increased a lot.
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It became hard for the government to buy land for public projects.
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Land pooling is a cost-effective and fair alternative to forced land acquisition.
How Do Landowners Benefit?
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They give up some land but get developed land in return, which has a higher market value.
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Better infrastructure means higher land prices and better living conditions.
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No forceful eviction – this is voluntary and beneficial for all parties.
Example: Delhi (DDA - Delhi Development Authority)
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DDA is turning Delhi’s surrounding villages into a smart city.
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Landowners can submit land details through an online portal.
Return Policy:
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If you contribute 2 to 20 hectares → You get back 48% developed land.
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If you give more than 20 hectares → You get 60% back.
Other States Using Land Pooling:
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Gujarat and Maharashtra have already successfully implemented this model.
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It’s being used to develop urban areas without legal battles or high compensation costs.
Conclusion:
Land Pooling is a win-win solution:
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Landowners get developed land of higher value.
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Government gets land for public infrastructure.
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Cities grow faster and more planned.