In a decisive move to regulate rural land use and combat illegal real estate practices, the Chhattisgarh government has officially enforced the Land Revenue Code (Amendment) Act, 2025. The amendment, which received legislative approval and the Governor’s assent, prohibits the registration of agricultural land plots measuring less than five decimals (approximately 2,200 square feet) across the state.
This legal reform is expected to significantly deter illegal plotting and unplanned colony development in rural areas, where small subdivisions of farmland were previously misused for unauthorized real estate sales.
Registration Prohibited Below 0.05 Hectares in Rural Areas
According to the amended code, no subdivision of agricultural land is allowed if the area is less than 0.05 hectares (equivalent to 5 decimals). This restriction applies strictly to rural agricultural land and is designed to protect farming lands from being fragmented and sold in unregulated micro-plots.
Government officials believe that this will bring greater transparency for both buyers and farmers, and prevent exploitation by land mafias.
Historical Context and Policy Reversal
This move reinstates a rule introduced during the tenure of former Chief Minister Dr. Raman Singh, which was later diluted by the Bhupesh Baghel administration through exemptions. Following those changes, there was a surge in the establishment of unauthorized colonies on small agricultural plots, leading to unplanned rural development and legal complications.
The 2025 amendment now restores regulatory rigor, aiming to establish order in rural land markets and protect the interests of genuine landowners and buyers.
Urban Land Registration Remains Unaffected
It’s important to note that the amendment applies only to rural agricultural land. In urban areas, the registration of plots below five decimals for commercial and residential purposes on diverted (non-agricultural) land will continue as per the existing norms.
Mandatory Use of Geo-Referenced Maps for Land Disputes
Another major reform in the amended Act is the mandatory use of notified geo-referenced maps after any land survey or resurvey. This has been added as Subsection (5) to Section 107 of the Land Revenue Code.
The government states that this technological integration will significantly reduce boundary and partition disputes, enabling more accurate and enforceable land demarcations. It also aligns with broader goals of digital governance and land reform in the state.
Boost to Rural Planning and Infrastructure Development
By preventing illegal colonies and ensuring better land use planning, the amendment will help the state facilitate structured rural development, support infrastructure planning, and protect agricultural ecosystems. Officials expect that the new rules will encourage more responsible and regulated land development in Chhattisgarh’s villages.
