Industry welcomes Land Acquisition Bill draft

India Inc today welcomed the draft Land Acquisition Bill, especially the proposal to include infrastructure and industry in the definition of "public purpose."

Public purpose includes infrastructure and industry wherein benefits largely accrue to the general people. It also comprises strategic purposes like armed forces and national security, besides for health and educational schemes.

"The fact that the government would continue to play a significant role in land acquisition for industrial development as proposed in the draft Bill is indeed a very positive step, since planned industrialisation is essential for job creation and inclusive growth," CII said.

The government today unveiled the Draft National Land Acquisition and Rehabilitation & Resettlement Bill, putting in place a transparent, legal framework aimed at giving adequate compensation to land owners and ensuring rehabilitation of those displaced.

CII said the State should fulfil its responsibility for economic development and must play its critical role in acquiring land for industrial projects.

But according to the draft, the government will not be acquiring land for private companies for private purpose.

Ficci welcomed the draft Bill and said it is pleased to know that the draft Bill does not envisage acquisition of land by the government for private companies.

"The government should provide enabling framework for facilitating this process of acquisition and rehabilitation," Ficci said.