Punjab's cabinet has approved significant reforms to simplify property registration by removing the no-objection certificate (NOC) requirement under specific conditions, addressing delays and fraudulent practices. The new regulations allow land deals verified through bank transactions before July 31 to bypass the NOC process. Additionally, the Punjab Fire Safety and Emergency Services Bill, 2024 updates fire safety regulations, requiring certificates every three years and introducing fire insurance. The cabinet also reduced motor vehicle taxes for tourist vehicles and imposed additional road tax on luxury cars, aiming to boost tourism and address pollution. A new tree preservation policy aims to increase the state's tree cover to 7.5% by 2030, supported by a INR 792.88 crore agroforestry project. These measures reflect Punjab's commitment to improving property transactions, safety, and environmental sustainability.
The Punjab cabinet has taken significant steps to simplify property registration and enhance fire safety regulations. In a recent meeting, cabinet members approved the removal of the no-objection certificate (NOC) requirement for registering land and property under certain conditions. This decision aims to protect homebuyers from fraudulent real-estate developers and improve the overall real estate market in the state.
Minister Aman Arora announced that the government would finalize details of this policy soon. The new approach allows registered land deals made before July 31 and verified through bank transactions to bypass the NOC process. This change comes in response to ongoing complaints from citizens about lengthy delays in obtaining NOCs, which has made it difficult for buyers to secure property and access basic utilities. The government hopes to restore trust among citizens, particularly in light of the reported existence of over 14,000 illegal colonies that have emerged in the state without proper approvals or infrastructure.
The cabinet has also approved The Punjab Fire Safety and Emergency Services Bill, 2024, which updates the existing policies on fire safety to align with modern requirements. Under the new regulations, buildings will need fire safety certificates every three years, instead of annually. This modification aims to streamline processes for business owners and improve emergency response across urban and rural areas. Additionally, the bill introduces fire insurance, which will help ensure that residents are better protected against fire-related incidents.
In a bid to revive tourism and local business, the cabinet has reduced the motor vehicle tax on registered tourist vehicles, making it more attractive for travelers to use services in Punjab. This decision is expected to stimulate growth in the tourism sector, which had seen a decline in vehicle registrations due to higher fees compared to neighboring states. Furthermore, luxury vehicles will now incur additional road tax, projected to generate around INR 87 crore for the state. The introduction of a green tax on older vehicles aims to address air pollution by encouraging the use of more eco-friendly transportation options.
In efforts to combat youth drug addiction and support exceptional athletes in the state, the cabinet approved the Youth Services Policy 2024 and established special recruitment rules for athletes in the sports department. This initiative seeks to provide job opportunities for young people, steering them towards positive lifestyles. Additionally, plans for a special sports cadre with 500 staff members, including 460 coaches, have been put in place to support and train athletes who excel in competing at higher levels.
Finally, to address environmental concerns, the cabinet has approved a tree preservation policy targeting non-forest government and public land. Currently, Punjab has only about 5.93% tree cover, with a goal to increase this to 7.5% by 2030. Measures include a INR 792.88 crore agroforestry project in collaboration with Japan, focusing on enhancing tree cover, conserving groundwater, and promoting biodiversity.
These announcements from the Punjab cabinet reflect a proactive approach towards construction regulations, public safety, economic stimulation, and environmental conservation, setting the stage for a more sustainable and efficient future for the state.
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