Maharashtra Sets Precedent By Buying Land In Jammu & Kashmir For State Bhavan

Eknath Shinde, the Chief Minister of Maharashtra, is taking a notable step. His government plans to buy land in Jammu and Kashmir. This will make Maharashtra the first Indian state to do so. The aim is to build Maharashtra Bhavan in Jammu and Kashmir.

Let me tell you, Eknath Shinde decided to purchase this land after his visit to Jammu and Kashmir in June 2023. During this visit, he met Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and reviewed the project plans.

The Maharashtra government will build Maharashtra Bhavan to serve tourists from Maharashtra visiting Jammu and Kashmir. This will ensure a convenient and comfortable stay for them.

Sources say the J&K administration approved the transfer of 2.6 acres of land to Maharashtra at Ichgam near Srinagar International Airport. The state government will pay Rs. 8.16 crores for this land.

This project is part of a larger initiative with Rs. 77 crore already sanctioned for two buildings. One will be in Budgam, Jammu and Kashmir, and the other in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh.

Earlier, non-residents could not buy land in Jammu and Kashmir due to Article 35A. However, they could lease land for 99 years. The abrogation of Article 35A now allows direct acquisitions.

Maharashtra Bhavan will provide several facilities for tourists from Maharashtra. This will enhance their experience in Jammu and Kashmir. This initiative marks a significant collaboration between the states.