Land monetisation lessons: Canadian firm could be model for unlocking land

In the Union Budget, Finance Min­i­s­ter Nirmala Sitharaman had outlined the government's intent to monetise surp­lus public lands by way of direct sales, concessions or other means

A landmark feature of Toronto’s skyline, the 1,815.5-ft-tall CN Tow­er, is recognised around the world and has attracted millions of visitors eager to experience its EdgeWalk, glass floors and panoramic views. Far less familiar is Canada Lands Company, or CLC, a self-financing state-owned corporation that owns and manages the famous tower (pictured).

The Canadian company is now drawing attention in India as a possible model for the monetisation of land assets held by various government entities. In the Union Budget, Finance Min­i­s­ter Nirmala Sitharaman had outlined the government’s intent to monetise surp­lus public lands by way of direct sales, concessions or