Karnataka Govt Clarifies Land Sale Rules in Special Agricultural Zone

Bengaluru, December 9, 2025 – The Karnataka government has issued a clarification regarding the sale of land within the 13 villages designated as a permanent special agricultural zone. This move aims to dispel any confusion and reassure farmers that they can freely engage in land transactions within the zone, but with a specific caveat: the land must continue to be used exclusively for agricultural activities.

The decision to establish the special agricultural zone followed the withdrawal of the acquisition of 1,777 acres of farmland in Channarayapatna village, near Kempegowda International Airport. This withdrawal marked the end of a three-year standoff with local farmers who had been protesting the potential conversion of their agricultural land into industrial space for Phase-II of the Aerospace Park.

Law Minister H.K. Patil announced the Cabinet's decision to drop the acquisition process and declare the area a Permanent Special Agriculture Zone to protect its green-zone status. This decision fulfilled Chief Minister Siddaramaiah's assurance to the protesting farmers made on July 15, 2025.

The government's primary objective is to support agriculture and prevent the misuse of land for real estate or other non-agricultural purposes. By designating the area as a special agricultural zone, the government intends to provide farmers with several benefits, including improved infrastructure, access to modern technology, and better market prices for their produce.

According to the new regulations established in 2020, any individual, regardless of their background, can purchase land in Karnataka. This includes Indian residents, institutions, and academic and corporate establishments. The amendment to the Karnataka Land Reforms Act has removed restrictions based on annual non-agricultural income, with a maximum income of Rs. 25 lakhs a year for non-agriculturists.

However, the key condition for land sales within the special agricultural zone is that the land must continue to be used for farming purposes. If a buyer intends to use the land for non-agricultural activities, they would need to apply for conversion of the land.

The decision to create a special agricultural zone reflects a growing recognition of the importance of preserving agricultural land and supporting farmers' livelihoods. It also signals a shift in evaluating development proposals, considering not only investment volumes but also sustainable spatial planning and the socio-economic realities of families dependent on agriculture.

The government's move has been welcomed by many farmers and organizations who have been advocating for the protection of agricultural land. However, some farmers' groups have raised concerns about a three-month deadline initially given to farmers to sell their land back to the Karnataka Industrial Area Development Board (KIADB). These groups viewed this as a potential pressure tactic and have called for greater transparency and clarity in the implementation of the new regulations.

Despite these concerns, the Karnataka government remains committed to supporting agriculture and ensuring that farmers can continue to thrive in the special agricultural zone. The government believes that this initiative will not only protect valuable farmland but also contribute to the overall economic development of the region.