Gaya: Stressing that incorrect land records are blocking benefits under PM Kisan Yojana, agriculture minister Vijay Kumar Sinha on Thursday promised to fast-track corrections of land records and solve mutation issues in Gaya. He also warned officials concerned of strict action amid concerns over delays affecting farmers and compensation claims.Addressing a review meeting of the district-level Programme Implementation Committee, Sinha, who is also in charge of Gaya district, said land reforms and record updation were close to his heart but could not be pursued at the state level due to circumstances beyond his control. However, as the minister in charge, he would ensure the work is carried out in the district on priority.The minister noted that Bihar farmers cannot fully avail benefits of the PM Kisan Yojana unless land records are updated. He said the creation of a digital ID for farmers is underway and that land reform is integral to the scheme. Calling PM Kisan an ambitious initiative, he said it is close to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision, adding that he had recently met the PM in Delhi.Sinha said strict action would be taken against erring employees who were delaying corrections of land records. He added that ambiguity in land ownership is a major cause of rural conflict, which would reduce once records are streamlined.The issue of compensation for those likely to be affected by the Vishnupad Corridor project was also discussed. Several members expressed concern that due to record deficiencies and restrictions on mutation and name transfer, genuine landowners may face difficulties in receiving compensation.Officials informed the minister that certain restrictions on name transfer and mutation had been imposed by the state govt and could only be addressed after their withdrawal. Gaya Town MLA and Assembly Speaker Prem Kumar also favoured a humane approach to the project’s implementation.Nand Lal Manjhi, a representative of Union MSME minister Jitan Ram Manjhi, raised concerns over illegal hospitals and ultrasound centres in parts of the district, including near Anugrah Narain Magadh Medical College Hospital. He also highlighted the role of touts and alleged unwarranted referrals and discharges. The minister asked him to provide specific instances, stating that vague allegations were not actionable. Manjhi said he would furnish details.Besides Prem Kumar, Atri MLA Romit Kumar and Tekari MLA Ajay Kumar were also present in the meeting.
