Bihar Government takes major decision on land acquisition for township projects; farmers to get up to four times compensation; strict time-bound system implemented in ‘Sahyog Shivir’ system
The Bihar government has taken a significant decision regarding land acquisition for township construction under urban development projects. Deputy Chief Minister and Finance Minister Samrat Choudhary announced that farmers and landowners providing land for township projects will now receive compensation of up to four times the market rate.
The announcement was made during the state-wide launch of the ‘Sahyog Shivir’ programme held at Dumri Buzurg Panchayat in Sonpur block of Saran district. A large number of villagers, beneficiaries, and administrative officials were present at the event.
“No one will be allowed to suffer”: Government
The Chief Minister said that during land acquisition, the biggest concern of farmers is the economic security of their families and social needs, especially expenses related to daughters’ marriages, medical emergencies, and other household requirements.
He added that in special cases, landowners can apply to the District Magistrate for immediate compensation assistance, which will be directly transferred to beneficiaries’ bank accounts after verification.
Key provisions of fourfold compensation policy
According to government sources, compensation will be determined based on the following components:
Assessment of current market value
Adjustment of government circle rate
Additional compensation (solatium/incentive amount)
Rehabilitation and resettlement assistance
The government claims that this system will ensure that farmers do not suffer any financial loss.
Strict time-bound system in ‘Sahyog Shivir’
The ‘Sahyog Shivir’ has been described as an effective platform for quick resolution of public grievances. A strict time-bound mechanism has been implemented:
Mandatory disposal of every application within 30 days
Review notices on 10th, 20th, and 25th day
Action against officials for delay
Automatic suspension if unresolved by 31st day
The state government has also activated the 1100 helpline number and the ‘Sahyog Portal’ up to the panchayat level.
Development plans for Sonpur region
Several key development projects were also announced, including:
Ganga-Ambika Path inspired by Patna’s JP Ganga Path
Construction of a new bridge in Sonpur
Proposed airport project
Township development plan named after Baba Hariharnath
These projects aim to develop Sonpur and surrounding areas into a major urban development corridor.
Focus on health and education reforms
The government also announced improvements in the education and health sectors. The process of establishing degree colleges and model schools in every block is being accelerated. In healthcare, the government aims to eliminate unnecessary referral systems by August 15.
Benefits distributed to beneficiaries
During the event, several beneficiaries were provided with ration cards, residential certificates, birth certificates, pension scheme benefits, and assistance under the Swachh Bharat Mission.
The move is being seen as an important step towards addressing farmers’ concerns over land acquisition while also improving accountability and transparency in the administrative system.