Pushkar Singh Dhami Chairs High-Level Cabinet Meeting in Champawat
In a significant move aimed at accelerating the overall development of the Himalayan state, the Uttarakhand government led by Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has greenlit several crucial policy decisions. A high-level cabinet meeting was convened at the NHPC guest house in Champawat district, where ministers deliberated on various administrative and public-welfare proposals.
These new policy frameworks are expected to streamline bureaucratic procedures, enhance financial transparency, and provide legal ownership rights to thousands of residents who have long awaited formal land titles. The decisions encompass diverse sectors ranging from environmental clearances and industrial infrastructure to fiscal management and revenue generation.
Streamlining Forest Land Transfers and Creating PMU
Recognizing the procedural bottlenecks often faced by developmental projects due to strict forest conservation regulations, the cabinet approved the creation of a dedicated Project Management Unit (PMU) under the office of the Nodal Officer, Forest Conservation. Six new positions have been sanctioned to operationalize this unit effectively.
The newly formed PMU will exclusively handle technical evaluations, online alignment testing, and mapping procedures for forest land transfer proposals. By removing administrative delays, the government aims to expedite critical infrastructure projects such as roads, power grids, and drinking water schemes across the state.
Land Ownership Rights Granted to Leaseholders
Addressing long-pending public grievances regarding land tenures, the cabinet has approved proposals granting freehold rights to eligible leaseholders and occupants of Class-3 and Class-4 lands. This decision brings direct relief to residents in areas like Lalkuan in Nainital district and the Jaunsar-Bawar pargana in Dehradun.
The regularization process for these lands will be extended for another year based on the 2004 circle rates, after which prevailing rates will apply. This humanitarian decision secures the livelihoods and housing rights of numerous families who previously lacked formal legal titles to their occupied properties.
Boosting Regional Connectivity and Financial Accountability
To support the expansion of the Pantnagar Greenfield Airport and facilitate regional air connectivity, the cabinet sanctioned the release of over 66 crore rupees to the Uttarakhand Seeds and Tarai Development Corporation Limited. This funding will be utilized for reconstruction and development works in accordance with the corporation's master plan.
Additionally, the cabinet mandated PAN card verification for all property buyers and sellers during real estate transactions. This stringent measure is designed to curb fraudulent transactions, eliminate the circulation of fake PAN details, and ensure complete transparency and data accuracy in reporting to income tax authorities.
