Is there a Ceiling for purchase of Agricultural land in Kerala?

Farm Questions
1

Hi all

I am an expatriate who has invested all his savings in agriculture land. Thus I have a 7 acre rubber estate + 2.5 acre land totalling almost to 10 acres. Now before I come back to settle, I wantsome 12 acres of paddy fields for ZBNF organic rice cultivation one season and for fodder grass cultivation for the balance part. We have constructed a 20 capacity dairy unit and are expecting our first batch of ghir cows soon.

I got a shocker when the documentation lawyer suggested that I dont buy it in my name - as there is a land ceiling of 15 acre for a full family (incl ownership in my name, parent’s name or sibling name etc.) - ie 15 acre ceiling for a family containing the same ration card. Some other lawyers say agricultural land (rice fields, rubber estate) are exempt from this and I am totally confused.

Could some Keralites more knowledgeable can guide me as to what to do. Many thanks. Jayan - kgjayan@gmail.com

2

Hello Jayan,

Sorry for delay. By now I believe you would have come to know about the scenario.

If not.
Then yes there is there is a land ceiling of 15 acre for a full family, inlaws and other combinations. Not easy to mess around with documentation.

There are many alternative ways to buy more land. Ask your lawyer he will guide.

3

as per my knowledge rubber estates & such plantations are exempted from land ceiling. but not rice fields