Nazool Land

Nazool Land

News: Recently, Nazool land has been in the news due to a dispute and subsequent violence in Haldwani, Uttarakhand.

What is Nazool Land?
• Nazool land is a term used in India to refer to land that is owned by the government but is often not directly administered as state property. The state generally allots such land to any entity on lease for a fixed period, typically between 15 and 99 years.
• In case the lease term is expiring, one can approach the authority to renew the lease by submitting a written application to the Revenue Department of the local development authority. The government is free to either renew the lease or cancel it — taking back Nazool land.
• The term “Nazool” emerged during British rule when lands confiscated from opposing kings were marked as Nazool land after India gained independence. The government generally uses Nazool land for public purposes like building schools, hospitals, Gram Panchayat buildings, etc.

What is the process of deciding who gets Nazool Land?
• Application: An entity interested in leasing Nazool land must submit a written application to the Revenue Department of the local development authority.
• Evaluation: The authority evaluates the application based on various factors, including the purpose of the lease, the entity’s ability to maintain the land, and the benefits to the community.
• Decision: The government has the discretion to either renew the lease or cancel it, effectively taking back the Nazool land..