The issue of land encroachment and the conversion of agricultural land for industrial and commercial purposes in Jammu and Kashmir has long been a pressing concern. Minister for Health and Education, Sakeena Itoo, provided a detailed update in the Legislative Assembly on Friday regarding the progress made in retrieving illegally occupied land and the conversion of agricultural land for non-agricultural uses. Out of a total of 1,727,241 kanal and eight marla of encroached land, 1,539,662 kanal and 15.5 marla have been successfully reclaimed. However, the task is far from complete, as 313,645 kanal and 12 marla of land, valued at a staggering Rs. 18,049.6 crore, remain under illegal occupation. The government has initiated the eviction process to reclaim this land in accordance with relevant rules, but the scale of the challenge necessitates a comprehensive and sustainable approach to ensure long-term solutions. One of the key steps in addressing land encroachment is to strengthen the legal and administrative frameworks governing land management. This involves streamlining eviction procedures to make them more efficient and transparent, ensuring that the process adheres to the rule of law while minimising delays. Additionally, the use of modern technology, such as Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and satellite imagery, can enhance monitoring mechanisms, enabling authorities to detect and address encroachments in real time. To deter future violations, strict penalties must be imposed on individuals or entities involved in illegal land occupation, sending a clear message that such actions will not be tolerated. Equally important is the need to promote public awareness and community involvement in land conservation efforts. Workshops, seminars, and community-driven programmes can educate people about the economic and environmental consequences of land encroachment. The conversion of agricultural land for industrial and commercial purposes, while essential for economic development, raises significant concerns about food security and environmental sustainability. In districts like Kathua and Samba, thousands of kanals of agricultural land have been converted for industrial and commercial use, reflecting the growing demand for infrastructure and economic growth. However, this trend must be carefully managed to avoid depleting fertile agricultural land. Implementing strict zoning regulations can help designate specific areas for industrial, commercial, and agricultural use, ensuring that fertile land is preserved for farming. Additionally, industries should be incentivised to utilise non-agricultural or less fertile land for development, minimising the impact on food security. Farmers whose land is acquired for industrial or commercial purposes must be provided with fair compensation and alternative livelihood options to mitigate the socio-economic impact of such conversions. The reclaimed land should be utilised for projects that benefit the public and contribute to the UT’s overall development. Digitising land records can reduce disputes over ownership and make information easily accessible to the public. Regular disclosure of data related to land retrieval, conversion, and allocation can keep citizens informed and hold authorities accountable for their actions. Furthermore, robust anti-corruption measures must be implemented to investigate and address any malpractices in land-related matters, ensuring that the process remains fair and just.
Encroachment Battle
