Noida housing projects reserve plots for over 350 farmers

The Noida Authority has made the decision to assign residential plots to more than 350 farmers in various sectors, following its existing policy that provides 5% residential plots. A total of 268 plots will be designated in Sector 146, with 42 plots in Sector 43, and an additional 42 plots distributed across various sectors. This decision has been prompted by the ongoing protests from farmers who are currently demanding 10% of abadi plots in return for the land that was acquired from them. Initially, the Authority had planned to allocate land parcels to group housing projects in Sector 146. However, this plan was abandoned due to the protests by farmers, who pointed out the Authority's failure to provide residential plots as per the guidelines. The current decision is aimed at meeting the longstanding demand of farmers from more than 10 villages. As per the Authority's guidelines, 5% of the total acquired land is designated for affected farmers as part of rehabilitation initiatives. In cases where farmers are unable to receive residential plots, they have the option to choose monetary compensation, which amounts to Rs 22,000 per square meter. The Authority's procedure involves initially attempting to allocate plots in villages or sectors located within a 3km radius of the farmer's village. If land is not available in these areas, plots are then allotted in other sectors.