Assam Moves to Protect Indigenous Land Rights with New Law

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced new land laws to protect the rights of indigenous people and landless eligible dwellers. The latest measures include restrictions on land dealings to those residing in the state since 1951 and new protections for core agricultural land. Mission Basundhara 3.0 will also address previous rejected land applications.

In a significant move, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Sunday unveiled plans for new laws aimed at securing land rights for indigenous people and landless eligible dwellers. The new legislation restricts land dealings in select revenue circles to people who have lived in the state since at least 1951.

Sarma revealed these details at the launch of the e-Chitha Land Valuation Certification portal, a new citizen-centric service by the Assam State Disaster Management Authority. He emphasized that these measures are crucial for safeguarding the indigenous community's future.

The new laws complement existing measures, such as restricting land dealings within the same social categories in the undivided Goalpara district. Additional reforms include the launch of Mission Basundhara 3.0 to cater to land rights applications rejected under previous editions, marking a robust step toward comprehensive land reform.

(With inputs from agencies.)