Patna: Opposition to Bihar’s proposed satellite township projects is gathering momentum, with farmer organisations announcing a statewide protest against the government’s urban expansion plans and calling instead for investment in smart villages and agriculture-led development.
The Samyukt Kisan Morcha has announced a protest on July 22, saying it will oppose the proposed 12 greenfield satellite townships planned across the state. The organisation has also called for demonstrations and effigy burning over the township proposals and a proposed US trade deal.
Farmers Oppose Land Pooling
Farmer leaders argued that the government should prioritise developing smart villages, strengthening agriculture and promoting agro-based industries rather than establishing new satellite townships.
They alleged that the proposed projects would result in the acquisition or pooling of agricultural land and claimed the policy favoured corporate interests at the expense of farmers. The government has not responded to these allegations.
Under the proposed policy, landowners in identified areas may either sell their land to the government or participate in the projects through a land pooling mechanism. The application process for landowners willing to sell their land has already begun.
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Memorandum Submitted Over Sitamarhi Project
Separately, the Bhoomi Bachao Sangharsh Samiti submitted an 11-point memorandum to Urban Development Minister Nitish Mishra, raising objections to the proposed Sitapuram Township in Sitamarhi.
During a meeting with the minister, committee representatives argued that Sitamarhi, where agriculture is the primary source of livelihood and land resources are limited, would benefit more from agriculture-based industries, improved irrigation and river water management than from an urban township.
They also opposed the proposed land pooling and lottery system for landowners.
The delegation claimed that the township could affect ponds, water bodies and agricultural land in the area surrounding the Riga Sugar Mill. Sitamarhi MLA Sunil Kumar Pintu was also present during the meeting.
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Minister Promises Impact Assessment
Responding to the concerns, Nitish Mishra said the government would undertake a socio-economic impact assessment of the project.
He assured the delegation that farmers’ concerns would be addressed and said changes to the proposal would be considered if required.
Government Plans 12 Satellite Townships
The Urban Development and Housing Department has identified locations for satellite townships near Patna, Muzaffarpur, Chhapra, Sonpur, Sitamarhi, Bhagalpur, Darbhanga, Munger, Saharsa, Purnia, Gaya and Dehri (Rohtas).
The projects form part of the Bihar government’s plan to develop new urban centres around major cities.
However, with farmer organisations beginning coordinated protests against the proposals, the projects are likely to face increasing public scrutiny as consultations and land acquisition efforts continue.
