Himachal Pradesh Assembly Approves Key Reforms for Land Regulation Authority

The Himachal Pradesh Assembly has approved Bill No. 22 of 2025, which brings crucial reforms to the Land Regulation Authority. The Chief Secretary will now lead the selection committee, and a fixed four-year tenure for the Chairperson and Members has been established. These changes aim to improve administrative coordination, enhance transparency, and prevent conflicts of interest. The bill is set to undergo further procedural steps before becoming law, marking a significant shift in the governance of land regulation in the state.

By Narendra Chaudhary Dec 3, 2025, 16:41 IST

Significant Changes to Land Regulation Authority

Chief Secretary to Lead Selection Committee

Sourabh Sood

Dharamshala

On Wednesday, the Himachal Pradesh Assembly enacted Bill No. 22 of 2025, which introduces major reforms to the operational and appointment framework of the state's Land Regulation Authority, established under the Himachal Pradesh Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act of 2016.

This amendment modifies the criteria for selecting, qualifying, and determining the tenure of the Authority’s Chairperson and Members. Notably, the Chief Secretary will now oversee the selection committee, taking over from the previous arrangement where the Chief Justice of the High Court or their representative presided over the panel. The government indicated that this adjustment aims to enhance administrative coordination and streamline the appointment process.

Fixed Tenure for Leadership Positions

The legislation also stipulates a fixed tenure of four years for both the Chairperson and Members, commencing from their date of appointment. Individuals who have served a full term or reached the designated age limit will be ineligible for reappointment.

Additionally, the amendment prohibits the appointment of anyone currently holding the position of Secretary or Additional Secretary in either the State or Central Government unless they have completed the necessary separation from service. This measure is intended to avoid conflicts of interest and ensure fairness in the process.

The Statement of Objects and Reasons accompanying the bill outlines that these amendments are designed to fortify the governance framework of the Authority, boost transparency, and simplify administrative processes related to land regulation and development. The government believes that the updated system will enhance efficiency and foster improved oversight within the sector.
Following the Assembly's endorsement, the bill will proceed through additional procedural steps before it can be enacted into law.