Ranchi, Nov 5: The Federation of Jharkhand Chambers of Commerce and Industries (FJCCI) on Thursday submitted written representations to the Speaker of the Legislative Assembly, the Finance Minister, and the Land Revenue Minister, demanding immediate initiatives to make Khasmahal lands freehold across the state.
FJCCI President Tulsi Patel highlighted that extensive tracks of Khasmahal land in various districts of Jharkhand have been used for residential and commercial purposes for decades. Patel pointed out that under the existing lease-based framework, property owners face severe constraints, including difficulties in transferring property, establishing clear ownership titles, and securing bank loans. Transitioning from a leasehold to a freehold system would resolve these longstanding administrative hurdles and enable optimal utilization of properties.
Patel emphasized that converting Khasmahal land to freehold aligns directly with the state’s economic interests, with the potential to generate crores of rupees in government revenue. Furthermore, the move would streamline property utilization, facilitate commercial bank financing, attract new investments, foster industrial expansion, and generate local employment opportunities.
The business body recalled its recent high-level discussions on the issue with the Speaker of the Legislative Assembly and the Finance Minister. During those meetings, the Chamber urged the government to act on the recommendations and suggestions of a previously constituted committee to enact a simplified, practical freehold policy.
In response to the Chamber’s representation, the Assembly Speaker acknowledged the gravity of the issue and stated that a dedicated committee would be constituted to review the matter comprehensively. The Speaker assured that following the committee’s review, the proposed resolution and simplified freehold process would be tabled before the Legislative Assembly.
Through its latest communication, signed by General Secretary Rohit Agarwal and Spokesperson Vinita Singhania, the Jharkhand Chamber reminded the government of its prior commitment and urged swift administrative action to advance the pending process.
