Kerala appoints A.T. James-led panel to review land laws

An expert committee led by former Land Revenue Commissioner A.T. James will now review Keralam’s land laws after the government issued an order appointing a five-member panel for comprehensive reform.

The order comes against the backdrop of a long-standing demand of farmers and an announcement made in the State Budget.

Panel to review outdated land laws

The committee has been tasked with reforming laws described as riddled with hurdles.

It will re-examine land laws in detail so that outdated and complex provisions can be changed in tune with the times.

The government’s stated focus is on comprehensive changes in land reforms, with the committee’s study forming the basis for the amendments.

Key issues before the committee

The panel will work to end eviction of farmers from farmland citing technical and flimsy reasons.

It will also look at ensuring full and unconditional ownership of land farmed by them for years.

Another part of its mandate is to give farmers permission for crop diversification while ensuring that the natural environment of plantations is maintained.

The committee has also been asked to find permanent solutions for problems related to title deeds of farmers who have been in possession of land parcels for decades.

Why the reform matters

The reforms are expected to provide security to the farming community and rejuvenate the sector, a statement said.

The amendments will be implemented on the basis of a study report submitted by the committee, the statement said.

The announcement was published on September 25, 2026, at 08:30 pm IST.

Source: The Hindu