Can an outsider purchase land in Uttarakhand?

The Uttarakhand government, led by Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, has implemented a temporary ban preventing “outsiders” from acquiring land for agriculture and horticulture in the state. This decision, made during a high-level meeting, aims to safeguard the interests of the public and the state. The prohibition will remain in effect until the completion of a thorough examination by a five-member drafting committee, appointed by the Uttarakhand government, to assess the report submitted by the committee on land laws. During this period, district magistrates are instructed not to grant permission for land acquisition by outsiders for agricultural and horticultural purposes. The move aligns with the state’s adherence to an amendment made in 2004 (Section 154 of the Uttar Pradesh Zamindari Abolition and Land Reforms Act, 1950), requiring individuals without immovable property in the state before September 12, 2003, to obtain permission from the district magistrate for such land transactions.

Both Indian citizens and non-resident Indians (NRIs) have the eligibility to buy property in Uttarakhand. There are no restrictions on the purchase of flats and apartments in Uttarakhand for Indian citizens, provided that the property is legally compliant and has obtained all necessary approvals and clearances. There are no limitations on the size of the flats and apartments.

This recent decision underscores the government’s commitment to carefully evaluating and regulating land acquisitions, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive review before allowing outsiders to purchase land for agricultural and horticultural activities. The interim ban serves as a precautionary measure until the drafting committee completes its examination and provides further directives.