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The Maharashtra Assembly recently passed an amendment to the Maharashtra Land Revenue Code, making it easier to subdivide small plots in urban areas. The decision is expected to benefit nearly three crore people living on gunthewari plots by removing the need for repeated Non-Agricultural permissions in locations where approved Development Plans or Regional Plans already exist. Landowners can now obtain individual ownership by paying a one-time premium, allowing their names to be added to the 7/12 land record. Opposition members raised concerns about infrastructure and possible advantages to builders, but the government said the move is meant to regularise long-time residents.
The Maharashtra Assembly has approved the Maharashtra Land Revenue Code (Second Amendment) Bill, 2025, introducing simpler rules for subdividing small plots in urban areas. This step is expected to help around 60 lakh families close to three crore residents who currently live on gunthewari plots and often face difficulties in securing proper property documents. Advertisement
Under the new rules, small-plot owners in areas with an approved Development Plan or Regional Plan will no longer need repeated Non-Agricultural permissions from the collector. Instead, they can pay a one-time premium to receive individual ownership rights. Once this process is completed, their names can be added to the 7/12 land extract, making future transactions and record updates easier and more transparent.
During the discussion in the Assembly, several opposition members noted that the change should come with careful attention to basic infrastructure such as road width, drainage systems and civic services. They also pointed out that regularising subdivision in urban pockets should not overlook similar issues in rural areas, where small landholders face delays in getting clean titles.
There were also concerns that the amendment could unintentionally benefit builders. In response, the Revenue Minister said the aim is to provide legal recognition to families who have been living on small plots for years. He clarified that the amendment will not impact lands that are already reserved under planning norms. He also stated that no new subdivisions after October 15, 2024, will be allowed, ensuring the rule covers only existing cases.
This update comes at a time when Maharashtra has been working on broader land and housing reforms. Earlier this year, the state introduced a housing policy built around land banks and digital mapping to improve planning and reduce approval delays. The new amendment adds another layer of clarity by helping residents gain clean ownership records and reducing paperwork issues that often slow down property transfers.
Source PTI
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