The Jammu and Kashmir Government’s decision to allot five marlas of land to landless families affected by natural calamities is a major policy intervention that signals a shift from temporary relief to long-term rehabilitation. At a time when climate-driven disasters such as flash floods, landslides and cloudbursts are increasing in frequency, such structural support is not only necessary but also timely. Under the policy, each eligible landless family rendered homeless in 2025 will receive five marlas of state land on a 40-year lease at a nominal ground rent of Rs 10 per marla annually, without any premium. The lease is extendable as per rules, making the arrangement practically long-term security for affected families.
This move becomes even more significant when viewed alongside the monetary relief already provided. While such cash relief is crucial for immediate survival and recovery, it cannot substitute the emotional and economic security associated with owning or holding residential land. For families who have completely lost their homes, the allotment of five marlas will be a game-changer. It gives them a stable base to rebuild their lives and ensures that rehabilitation is not left incomplete. Land is not merely a physical asset; in rural and semi-urban J&K, it is tied to dignity, social identity and long-term economic stability. In this sense, the decision will go a long way in mitigating disaster-induced losses and restoring normalcy.
At the same time, implementation will determine the success of the policy. One key question is eligibility. Will families who were living on encroached water bodies, riverbanks or nullahs be considered for land allotment? These are sensitive but unavoidable issues, especially in regions where vulnerable populations often settle in risk-prone zones due to a lack of affordable housing. Similarly, clarity is needed on whether there will be any cap on the number of beneficiaries or if the scheme will expand based on verified need. Going forward, land allotment must be complemented by easy housing finance. The UT Government, in coordination with the Centre, should ensure priority access to loans and integrate beneficiaries with schemes like the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, especially for BPL families. The real success of the policy will be measured not by land allotment alone, but by how quickly permanent houses come up on that land. However, the decision reflects a strong intent by the UT Government to make disaster-affected families’ lives sustainable.
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