NAGPUR: Maharashtra revenue minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule on Friday announced what he described as a “historic” package for the New Nagpur project, saying landowners affected by acquisition now received commercial plots in addition to monetary compensation, even as the govt began compiling eligibility lists for a potential farm loan waiver.
Speaking to media in Nagpur, Bawankule said the revised package marked a shift from the earlier policy of providing only financial compensation for acquired land. Under the new framework, affected farmers in commercial zones were also allotted developed plots. He expressed confidence that the decision strengthened support for the project and accelerated the city’s expansion.
The minister said the state simultaneously rolled out ‘Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Revenue Campaign’ across Maharashtra for three months, following directions from CM Devendra Fadnavis. The initiative aimed to deliver 15 key revenue services directly to citizens in a time-bound and transparent manner.
On farm distress, Bawankule said the govt sought lists of eligible beneficiaries to ensure that “needy farmers receive justice”. He added that exploitation under the guise of cooperative laws was not tolerated and indicated that relief measures were under consideration.
Addressing allegations of nearly ₹1,200 crore irregularities at Nagpur District Central Cooperative Bank, he signalled a detailed probe and strict action against those found responsible.
Bawankule said the govt adopted a stringent stand on unauthorised layouts under the Nagpur Regional Plan. Plots purchased before Oct 15, 2024, were considered for regularisation within the framework of fragmentation laws. However, no amnesty was granted to layouts developed after that date. “Criminal cases will be registered directly against violators,” he said, describing the move as a decisive crackdown.
He also indicated that in Gadchiroli district, a new tender process was initiated to curb smuggling activities more effectively.
The Rs11,300 crore ‘New Nagpur Business District’ project came up on 692ha in Mouza Godhni and Mouza Ladgaon, Hingna taluka. The NMRDA implemented the project while NBCC (India) Limited was appointed as consultant. The govt already marked ₹3,000 crore earmarked for land acquisition and ₹3,500cr for Phase 1 development.
