Why Did the Punjab Government Withdraw the Land Pooling Policy?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- The Punjab government has withdrawn the Land Pooling Policy.
- Farmers' voices are prioritized in decision-making.
- Engagement and trust are key tenets of governance.
- The government emphasizes the importance of farmers' welfare.
- Future policies will involve farmer participation.
Chandigarh, Aug 11 (NationPress) Following the Punjab and Haryana High Court's suspension of the Punjab government's land pooling policy, Minister Hardeep Singh Mundian stated on Monday that the Aam Aadmi Party-led administration has consistently prioritized farmers' needs from the outset.
The Minister emphasized that initiatives such as waiving farm debts, advocating for improved crop prices, enhancing irrigation systems, and offering electricity bill relief have all been implemented with farmers' welfare in mind.
In alignment with this vision, the Land Pooling Policy 2025 was introduced.
Mundian expressed that the aim was to engage farmers as active participants in development, significantly elevate their land value, and connect them with modern infrastructure and resources.
However, he noted that the Punjab government believes genuine progress can only be realized when farmers are content and fulfilled.
He further stated that if farmers express discontent regarding any policy, enforcing it against their wishes contradicts public interest and democratic values.
Thus, Hardeep Singh Mundian declared that under Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann's leadership, the state government has made a significant and historic choice to retract the Land Pooling Policy, prioritizing farmers' voices.
The Minister added that this action demonstrates that for the Punjab government, farmers are more than just voters—they are family.
He remarked that when a family member is dissatisfied, truly listening to them and adjusting course is the essence of service and compassionate leadership.
Mundian asserted that the state government has demonstrated its commitment to trust and collaborative governance rather than obstinacy.
He conveyed a clear message that every farmer in Punjab can be assured that their land, rights, and the results of their labor are fully safeguarded.
He reiterated that the policy will not be enacted without the farmers' agreement and participation, emphasizing that this is not just a policy retraction—it signifies a renewed dedication to fortifying the trust, respect, and partnership with farmers.
Mundian stated that once again, the Bhagwant Mann government has illustrated that Punjab's true identity lies in its land, labor, and dignity, adding that farmers' prosperity is synonymous with Punjab's prosperity—and that remains the government's utmost aspiration.