07 August 2025: Indian Express Editorial Analysis

1. Punjab Govt’s land pooling policy for Aerotropolis: HC seeks Centre’s stand

(Source: Page 3, The Indian Express)

What is the Land Pooling Policy?

• A land pooling mechanism allows governments to consolidate small landholdings for infrastructure projects by offering compensation in the form of developed plots or monetary benefits.

• It is seen as an alternative to direct land acquisition, which often leads to farmer resistance.

The Aerotropolis Project:

• A major urban development planned around a new international airport near Ludhiana.

• It includes residential, commercial, and industrial clusters, making it an economic hub.

• 5,350 acres of land across eight villages to be acquired.

Legal and Environmental Issues Raised:

• Petitioners argue that:

  • The project lacks Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) as required under the 2006 EIA Notification.

  • Farmers were coerced into surrendering land, especially under pressure of development.

  • The land pooling notification violates the constitutional right to fair compensation.

Constitutional & Legal Dimensions:

• Article 21 (Right to Life): Includes right to a clean environment.

• Article 300A: Right to property and fair compensation.

• Environmental clearance is mandatory for large-scale infrastructure under EPA, 1986 and EIA 2006 norms.

Governance and Policy Implications:

• The case reflects the tension between development and environmental governance.

• Raises questions about:

  • Due process in land acquisition

  • Transparency in land pooling

  • Sustainable urban planning practices

Way Forward:

• Any mega-infrastructure policy must be environmentally and socially inclusive.

• Need to strengthen institutional checks on state-led land development schemes.

• State governments should follow due environmental procedures to avoid legal roadblocks and ensure sustainable outcomes.

Read more – 06 august 2025 : Indian Express Editorial Analysis