Maharashtra set to become first state to purchase INR 8.16 crore land in Kashmir to build tourist bhawan

Maharashtra is set to make history! Reportedly, Maharashtra is all set to become the first state in India to purchase land in Kashmir to construct a tourist bhawan catering to its residents. According to The Indian Express, the upcoming Maharashtra Bhawan will be set in the heart of Budgam in central Kashmir. It will also mark the first state bhawan in the valley.

As per reports, the facility will occupy 2.5 acres of land in Ichgam, close to the Srinagar airport. The Jammu and Kashmir government has granted permission for the land transfer to the Maharashtra government at a cost of INR 8.16 crore. This process of acquiring land was set in motion subsequent to a visit by Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde to the union territory in June of the preceding year, where he held discussions with Governor Manoj Sinha.

Before the revocation of Article 370, land acquisition in the former state was restricted solely to permanent residents of Jammu and Kashmir. But, the government had the authority to lease land for durations of up to 99 years to external industries and individuals.

Maharashtra's Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar shared plans for the construction of two Maharashtra Bhawans in Srinagar and Ayodhya in a recent budget speech. These bhawans aim at enhancing amenities for tourists and pilgrims. The state government has given INR 77 crore for the development of these bhawans.

A Revenue department note states, “Sanction is accorded to the transfer of Shamlat Deh land measuring 20 kanal situated at estate Ichgam Budgam in favour of Maharashtra state… on payment of transfer value of Rs 8.16 crore, which is Rs 40.8 lakh per kanal, for construction of Maharshtra Bhawan.”

Meanwhile, various regions in Kashmir experienced fresh snowfall, with Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Sonamarg's tourist resorts receiving substantial snow overnight. Additionally, Gurez and other elevated regions in Bandipora, Ganderbal, and Anantnag districts also encountered fresh snowfall.