Gandhinagar: The Gujarat government is actively considering a proposal to deregulate the mandatory requirement of securing a Non-Agriculture (NA) certificate from the revenue department for all projects — including residential, commercial, industrial, and mixed-use — in areas covered under Town Planning (TP) schemes. The move aims to accelerate project approvals, reduce delays, and curb corruption in the state’s development processes.
Proposal Discussed in High-Level Meeting with Union Government
At a top-level meeting in Gandhinagar attended by officials from the Government of India (GoI) and secretaries of all state departments, the Gujarat government assured the Union government that it is likely to repeal the clause mandating NA certification in areas under both draft and finalized TP schemes.
According to senior government sources, the requirement of securing an NA certificate — issued by collectorates and district development offices — has been a major bottleneck for project implementation, with some applicants reportedly waiting two years or more for approval.
Key Projects Affected by NA Certificate Delays
Government sources highlighted that the delays in obtaining NA certificates have adversely impacted several key sectors:
- Industries and manufacturing projects
- Real estate and housing developments
- Hospitals and healthcare facilities
- Commercial complexes
- Mixed-use projects
These delays not only increase project costs but also slow down overall state development, sources said.
Corruption Concerns Linked to NA Certification
The mandatory NA certification process has also been linked to corruption at the district administration level. A recent example includes the arrest of former Surendranagar district collector Rajendrakumar Patel and others by the Enforcement Directorate in connection with an alleged bribery racket involving expedited NA approvals. Following the arrest, the state government suspended the former collector.
Sources say that deregulating the NA certificate requirement will help streamline project approvals, reduce administrative red tape, and curb malpractices associated with land-use changes in TP areas.
Move Expected to Boost Development in Gujarat
Experts believe that the proposed deregulation could significantly accelerate infrastructure, industrial, and commercial development across Gujarat. By removing a key bureaucratic hurdle, the state aims to encourage investment, simplify project implementation, and enhance ease of doing business.
The government is expected to finalize the policy decision in the coming months, marking a major reform in land-use and urban development regulations in Gujarat.
