Keralam govt. forms five-member panel for land reforms

The Keralam government has issued an order appointing a five-member expert committee to bring about comprehensive changes in land reforms against the backdrop of a long-standing demand of farmers and the announcement made in the State Budget.

The committee, led by former Land Revenue Commissioner A.T. James, has been tasked with reforming laws riddled with hurdles. It will re-examine in detail land laws so that outdated and complex land laws can be changed in tune with the times.

It will end eviction of farmers from farmland citing technical and flimsy reasons; ensure full and unconditional ownership of land farmed by them for years; give farmers permission for crop diversification while ensuring that the natural environment of plantations is maintained; and find permanent solutions for problems related to title deeds of farmers who have been in possession of land parcels for decades.

The reforms are expected to provide security to the farming community and rejuvenate the sector. The amendments will be implemented on the basis of a study report submitted by the committee, a statement here said.