The Odisha government is set to introduce the Rehabilitation and Resettlement Policy, 2025, which pioneers a "land-for-land" compensation model for individuals displaced by industrial and infrastructure projects.

Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari announced the initiative, emphasising its focus on safeguarding farmers' livelihoods. Instead of solely providing monetary compensation, the policy will offer land parcels to enable displaced farmers to continue their traditional agricultural practices. "Many farmers find it challenging to effectively use cash compensation. This approach ensures their expertise in agriculture is preserved," Pujari stated.

The new policy will replace the 2006 framework and offers both "land-for-land" and cash compensation options. It introduces stricter measures for private industrial projects, ensuring land is acquired only as needed to curb speculative hoarding. Government projects, however, will benefit from a more flexible approach, with inter-departmental land transfers streamlined.

Officials anticipate that the policy, once legislatively approved, will benefit thousands of farmers across the state, marking a significant shift from the existing cash-based system. (ET)