The Uttar Pradesh government announced a U-turn on its recent decision regarding land use policy, reversing the allocation of 5,000 hectares of land for industrial development. The change comes after widespread public backlash and pressure from local farmers' unions.
The decision was initially made in August 2026, when the state government approved the use of agricultural land for new industrial zones in the districts of Meerut and Kanpur. The move was seen as a threat to food security and the livelihoods of thousands of farmers. Protests erupted across the state, with demonstrations in major cities and rural areas.
The government has now withdrawn the proposal, citing the need for a more inclusive approach to land use planning. A new consultation process is being initiated, involving local authorities, agricultural experts, and community representatives. The state’s agriculture minister stated that the revised policy will prioritize sustainable farming practices and ensure fair compensation for landowners.
This reversal follows a similar decision in the state of Bihar earlier this year, where a similar land use policy was scrapped due to public opposition. The UP government’s change of heart highlights the growing influence of grassroots movements in shaping state-level policy. The new consultation period is expected to last until December 2026, with a final decision to be announced in early 2027.
