Kottayam, Kerala: The state government is preparing to issue licences to farmers cultivating land taken on lease (tenancy) in Kerala.

The initiative aims to bring tenant farming under a legal framework, enabling farmers without land of their own to access benefits such as agricultural loans. A bill to implement the new law will be introduced in the upcoming session of the Legislative Assembly.

Over one lakh hectares of land lie barren in Kerala.

Landowners are often reluctant to lease out land for cultivation due to concerns over whether it will be returned. Officials say that by issuing licences with specific conditions, the new system will protect landowners’ rights and address such concerns.

Key changes under the bill:

Licences will serve as official documents for availing various services and benefits.

Farmers can access agricultural loans, crop insurance, and subsidies without presenting land ownership documents.

There will be no age restrictions; anyone can cultivate any crop on a property, whether large or small.

Licences will be valid for 11 months and can be renewed with mutual consent of both parties.

Officials note that the new framework seeks to strike a balance, making farming easier for tenant cultivators while safeguarding landowners’ interests.