Karam Shyam stresses on MCPLW Act
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, December 27 2019:
CAF&PD and Revenue Minister Karam Shyam has stressed on the importance of deliberating ways and means to benefit the people and the State before implementing the Manipur Conservation of Paddy Land and Wetland (MCPLW) Act 2014 into action.
He made the statement as the chief guest during the 1st foundation day of Arapti Urup Farmers' Association (AUFA), which was held at Irong, Arapti Awang Leikai on December 25.Speaking at the event, he said that the MCPLW Act 2014, covers all the area under the Manipur Land Revenue and Land Reforms (MLR&MR) Act 1960 and as per the MLR&MR Act, any structural construction or diversion of the farmlands, need the approval of the authorities concerned.
However, from 1960 to 2014, a large number of structures have been constructed in the valley farmlands of the State, the Minister pointed out, adding that the MCPLW Act was passed in 2014.As per the new Act, anyone wishing to construct a structure in the farmland or wetland must take approval from the Government and first turn the land into a homestead land.
In the rural area, upto 20 acres can be utilised while in the urban locations, the area is limited to 10 acres.
The Act also facilitates turning farmlands or wetlands into homestead land for public purpose.
Pointing out that many questions have been raised regarding the construction of structures on farmlands/wetlands and why the MCPLW Act has not been properly enacted, the Minister explained the difficulties and problems involved in transforming the laws into action.
He explained that as per the Act, if one desires to use a farmland/wetland for construction purposes, he has to pay Rs 1 crore to the Government.
Pointing out that various minute details are included in the Act, Karam Shyam stressed on the need for properly deliberating and analysing all angles of the Act.
He continued that almost 90 percent of report collection from the DCs concerned have been completed under the MCPLW Act and added that Government is considering terms for either one time exemption or making necessary amendments to the laws.
The Minister also said that there have been reports concerning only around 57 percent of Keirao A/C people getting benefited under NFSA and assured that steps are being taken up to ensure covering upto 87 percent of the people under NFSA at the earliest.
On the other hand, MLA Lourembam Rameshwore Meitei said that the people of Urup Arapti and Kyamgei mostly earn their livelihood through farming, and appealed to the authorities concerned to refrain from cheating the farmers when it comes to farmers' schemes and benefits.
He also appealed to the people to refrain from causing disturbances to the river beds and encroaching on the river banks as Urup Arapti is usually a flood prone area.
AUFA chairman Konthoujam Ibotombi and member Thongam Parijat were also present at the event.
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