CHANDIGARH: Punjab cabinet today also accorded approval for formulation and notification of directives under Section 4 of the Punjab Management and Transfer Municipal Act, 2020, to facilitate the transfer of municipal properties belonging to Punjab government departments, boards, corporations, and other public sector undertakings for public purposes. This decision is expected to give fresh momentum to development projects across the state, ensure uniformity in land allocation, and prevent misuse of public land. A committee headed by the Deputy Commissioner of the concerned district will recommend the allotment process, subject to approval by the state government.
To accelerate development through optimal utilisation of land resources, the Cabinet approved a policy for transfer by sale or exchange of abandoned and active paths (rastas) or water courses (khals) located within all government-licensed projects inside municipal limits. This policy is aimed at unlocking stalled development potential and improving urban planning outcomes.
The Cabinet also approved extension of the time period for PAPRA (Punjab Affordable Property Registration Act) licensed projects by one year, from January 1, 2026 to December 31, 2026. The extension will be granted at an extension fee of ₹25, 000 per acre per year, for a maximum period of up to three years, and will be allowed by the concerned competent authorities on the same terms and conditions applicable earlier.
In another decision relating to urban development, the Cabinet approved the formula used for calculation of charges for additional Floor Area Ratio for properties proposed to be put up for auction from January 2026 onwards. It also approved amendments to Para 10.2 of the E-Auction Policy 2025, notified on February 20, 2025, making the revised provisions applicable to all categories of properties to be auctioned by development authorities in future.
The Cabinet further approved amendments to the Punjab Civil Services (General and Common Conditions of Service) Rules, 1994, by inserting Rule 6A. The amendment stipulates that the cut-off date for determining eligibility criteria, including minimum educational and other qualifications, shall be the last date for submission of application forms, unless specifically provided otherwise in the relevant service rules.