The Jammu and Kashmir Government has officially notified the Land Pooling Policy 2026 through Government Order No. 173-JK(HUD) on August 17, 2026. This policy aims to promote planned urban development by getting land through voluntary participation of landowners.
Under this new policy, individuals aiming to develop a parcel of land must meet a crucial requirement: obtaining consent from at least 70% of landowners in a contiguous area for the pooling scheme to proceed. Once registered, a Developer Entity or consortium can start the development process.
One significant aspect of the policy allows the Developer Entity to retain 60% of the contiguous pooled area. The remaining 40% will be surrendered to the relevant Development Authority, free from any encumbrances and earmarked for essential city-level infrastructure, recreational areas, and public amenities that comply with the applicable Master Plan.
This policy opens avenues for the Developer Entity to utilize the land for residential, commercial, institutional, and infrastructure development, thereby meeting the growing urban requirements.
A standout provision in the new policy is its flexibility for landowners participating in the scheme. They can choose to redistribute the pooled land and built-up spaces through fair exchanges that are mutually agreed upon.
Single-Window Facilitation is a critical component aimed at ensuring the smooth implementation of the policy. The designated Development Authority will oversee all aspects, from planning proposals to monitoring, ensuring seamless approvals via a Single Window System.
This authority will also address coordination with multiple utilities, including water supply, sewage, drainage, electricity, and transportation, to facilitate comprehensive urban development.
To safeguard the interests of landowners and developers, the policy includes a robust two-tier grievance redressal mechanism. A first-stage committee under the Designated Land Pooling Officer will address complaints within 30 days, while an appeal can be escalated to a second-stage committee led by the Vice Chairman of the Development Authority.
The government is also implementing an online application process for land pooling schemes, promising efficiency and transparency. This digital portal will manage applications, registrations, and monitor the implementation of various land pooling initiatives.
The timelines outlined in the policy state that the formation of a consortium must be initiated within an initial 60 days and can extend further by 30 days. The submission of land pooling schemes to the Development Authority must be completed within six months of consortium formation. Overall, the entire process should not exceed five years.
Responsibility for the operation and maintenance of areas developed under these schemes will lie with the Developer Entity or consortium, while the relevant Urban Local Body will take control of the infrastructure post completion and handover as per stipulated norms.
The implementation of the Land Pooling Policy 2026 marks a significant move by the Jammu and Kashmir Government to facilitate organized land development, ensuring better planning and infrastructure growth in the region.
