Background and Rationale

Government of Maharashtra had earlier introduced a farmer initiative under the Salokha Yojna, through which landholders could exchange farmland with significantly reduced stamp duty charges. As per the original order dated January 3, 2023, the stamp duty for such exchange deeds was fixed at a nominal ₹1,000 under Article 32 of the Maharashtra Stamp Act, 1958.

This measure was aimed at facilitating easier land reallocation, promoting efficient agricultural land use, and supporting landholders in resolving fragmented holdings. Recognising the continued public interest in the scheme, the Government has now chosen to extend the benefit period.

Amendments and Their Implementation

• The amendment is issued under Section 9(a) of the Maharashtra Stamp Act, 1958.
• The reduced stamp duty of ₹1,000 for exchange deeds under Salokha Yojna is now valid for a total of four years from the date of publication of this order in the Official Gazette.
• This effectively extends the period by two more years from the original provision.

The revised text is inserted directly into the preamble of the original order to legally extend its effect.

Advantages of the Amendment

• Continued Relief for Farmers: Keeps the stamp duty low, reducing transaction costs.
• Boosts Agricultural Productivity: Facilitates smoother land consolidation and swapping.
• Administrative Clarity: Provides a fixed timeframe to benefit from the scheme.
• Promotes Legal Land Exchange: Encourages proper documentation of farmland transactions.

Implications and Future Prospects

By extending this concession, the Government strengthens rural land reforms and supports agricultural reorganisation. The fixed four-year window offers legal certainty for eligible landholders. Looking ahead, the success of this initiative may prompt similar reliefs for other rural land transactions or be integrated into broader agrarian reform programmes.

Conclusion

The amendment to the 2023 order reaffirms Maharashtra’s commitment to supporting landholders through the Salokha Yojna by extending the reduced stamp duty regime. The fixed four-year period from the Gazette date provides a predictable legal framework for stakeholders to act within, and contributes to the State’s vision of equitable land management.