Maharashtra Revamps Policy For Government Land Allotment To Housing Societies

Mumbai: The Maharashtra government has introduced a revamped policy for allocating government land to housing societies, marking a shift from the stagnant lottery system since 2010. The initiative, spearheaded by Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule, introduces a transparent auction process aimed at benefiting eligible citizens such as government employees, artists, and members of backward communities.

Under the new system, district collectors will identify available plots and invite bids through public advertisements. The allotment will be determined based on technical and financial bids, with the highest bidder receiving the land. The base price for the land will be set at 2.5 per cent of the market value in Mumbai city and suburbs, and 5 per cent in other regions of the state. Upon completion of a 30-year lease, the land will have the option to be converted to Occupant Class-I status.

The policy also includes category-wise reservations, reserving 15 per cent for state government, local body, and corporation employees, while allocating 10 per cent each to Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and individuals belonging to the categories of writers, artists, sportspersons, and journalists. A further 5 per cent each is set aside for Central government employees, defence personnel, elected representatives, freedom fighters and their heirs, persons with disabilities, and economically weaker sections.

Moreover, the policy adjusts income and carpet-area limits according to the Seventh Pay Commission. Group-D employees earning up to Rs 50,000 monthly qualify for 300 square feet homes, while Group-C employees earning up to Rs 1 lakh can secure 450 square feet. Group-B employees are eligible for up to 650 square feet, and Group-A employees can receive up to 1,076 square feet without an income limit.

The policy also mandates a 20 per cent representation of backward communities and 5 per cent for persons with disabilities in housing societies. District collectors have the authority to intervene in cases of dummy or benami flats, seizing them without compensation.

Pending proposals related to closing existing cases will be affected by the new policy, with exceptions made for those who have already received letters of intent. For those seeking more information on exclusive and budget-friendly property deals in Mumbai and surrounding areas, they can visit the provided link.