Understanding Section 80 of the Uttar Pradesh Revenue Code, 2006

The Uttar Pradesh Revenue Code, 2006, particularly Section 80, plays a crucial role in empowering landholders (Bhumidhar) in Uttar Pradesh, including Raebareli, to utilize their land according to their needs while adhering to legal guidelines. This blog provides a clear and updated explanation of Section 80. We will also incorporate local relevance and practical insights for residents of Raebareli.

Section 80 धारा 80

Purpose of Section 80

Section 80 grants landholders the exclusive right to change the use of their land (e.g., from agricultural to residential, commercial, or industrial purposes) with the approval of a competent authority.
The primary aim is to facilitate economic and social development by allowing landholders to maximize the potential of their property.
It ensures that any change in land use complies with local planning, environmental regulations, and legal frameworks, balancing individual rights with public interest.

Key Provisions of Section 80

Right to Declaration:
- A landholder can apply for a declaration to alter the land’s usage (e.g., converting farmland into a residential plot) from the competent authority.
- This declaration aligns with the district’s development plans and local regulations, which in Raebareli are influenced by its proximity to Lucknow and ongoing infrastructure projects.
Application Process:
- Landholders must submit an application to the local revenue officer or relevant authority, such as the Tehsildar or Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) in Raebareli.
- Required documents include land records (khasra, khatauni), a proposed plan for land use, and any additional certificates as per local norms.
- The authority reviews the application, conducts a site inspection if needed, and issues the declaration if it meets the criteria.
Restrictions and Conditions:
- The declaration is granted only if it complies with Raebareli’s master plan, environmental guidelines, and other legal provisions.
- For Scheduled Caste (SC) landholders, additional safeguards apply, such as the requirement for District Magistrate’s permission under Section 157-A of the Uttar Pradesh Zamindari Abolition and Land Reforms Act, 1950, especially when selling or altering land use for non-agricultural purposes.

Context in Raebareli, Uttar Pradesh

Geographical and Economic Relevance: Raebareli, located about 80 km southeast of Lucknow, is an emerging district with agricultural dominance alongside growing industrial and residential development. The presence of the Raebareli Thermal Power Plant and the Amethi-Raebareli Industrial Area has increased demand for land use conversion.
Local Impact: Section 80 is particularly significant for farmers in Raebareli who wish to shift from traditional agriculture to commercial ventures, such as setting up small businesses or residential colonies, driven by urbanization and government schemes like the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana.
Recent Developments: As of July 2025, the Uttar Pradesh government has been promoting infrastructure projects in Raebareli, including road expansions and industrial corridors. This has led to an uptick in applications under Section 80, with the Raebareli Tehsil Office reporting a 15% increase in land use change requests in the past year (source: local revenue office data accessed via https://bor.up.nic.in).

Application Process in Raebareli

Online Portal: Applications can be filed on https://bor.up.nic.in, a platform digitized since 2023 to streamline revenue-related services.
Local Office: For assistance, visit the Raebareli Tehsil Office or SDM Office, where officials guide applicants through the process.
Timeline: The competent authority must decide within 45 days of receiving a complete application, though delays may occur due to site verification or public objections.
Fees: Nominal processing fees (₹100-₹500) may apply, depending on the land’s size and proposed use.

Practical Example in Raebareli

Imagine a farmer in Salon Tehsil, Raebareli, owning 5 acres of agricultural land. With increasing demand for housing due to nearby industrial growth, he decides to convert 1 acre into a residential plot. Under Section 80, he applies to the Raebareli SDM with his land records and a development plan. After verification and ensuring compliance with local zoning laws, the authority grants the declaration, allowing him to proceed with the conversion.

Safeguards for Scheduled Caste Landholders

In Raebareli, where a significant population belongs to the SC category, additional protections apply. If an SC landholder seeks to change land use or sell to a General Category individual, they must obtain prior permission from the District Magistrate under Section 157-A. This ensures that such transactions are fair, with the price exceeding the circle rate (verifiable on https://igrsup.gov.in).

Updates as of July, 2025

Digital Advancements: The Raebareli revenue office has fully adopted the Bhulekh portal (upbhulekh.gov.in) for real-time land record updates, making it easier to apply for declarations.
Policy Focus: The UP government’s 2025 budget emphasizes rural development, encouraging land use diversification under Section 80, with special incentives for Raebareli due to its industrial potential.
Challenges: Local reports indicate occasional delays in Raebareli due to incomplete applications or disputes over land ownership, urging applicants to seek legal advice if needed.

Precautions and Advice for Raebareli Residents

Verification: Check land records on upbhulekh.gov.in before applying to avoid disputes.
Consultation: Visit the Raebareli Tehsil Office or consult a local lawyer specializing in land laws.
Documentation: Ensure all documents (khasra, khatauni, identity proof) are updated and submitted.
SC Landholders: If you belong to the SC category, confirm District Magistrate approval for any sale or significant land use change.

Conclusion

Section 80 of the Uttar Pradesh Revenue Code, 2006, empowers landholders in Raebareli to adapt their land use to meet modern needs, from agriculture to residential or commercial purposes. As of July, 2025, the process is streamlined with digital tools, but it requires compliance with local regulations and, for SC landholders, additional safeguards. Whether you’re a farmer looking to diversify or a buyer exploring opportunities, understanding and following this section is key. Contact the Raebareli Tehsil Office or visit https://bor.up.nic.in for assistance, and consider legal counsel for complex cases.

Get in Touch: Share your queries or reach out to the local revenue office for personalized guidance.

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