In an important development, the City and Industrial Development (CIDCO) has reportedly reduced the Betterment Charge for farmers in the Navi Mumbai Airport Influence Notified Area (NAINA) project. Initially, the planning authority had proposed levying up to 50% of the increased land value as Betterment Charges, a move that faced intense opposition from farmers.
Protests were held against the decision, prompting government intervention. Following directions from the state, CIDCO revised its proposal and, in a board meeting on Monday, approved a minimal charge of just 0.05%. This decision is expected to provide major relief to farmers and developers, paving the way for long-stalled infrastructure projects in the NAINA region.
NAINA was declared in 2013, but CIDCO has yet to implement significant infrastructure in the area. However, after Managing Director Vijay Singhal took charge, he prioritised the international airport and NAINA projects, leading to substantial progress. For the first time in 12 years, CIDCO successfully finalized tenders over Rs 6,000 crore for infrastructure development, appointing contractors to begin work on roads, drainage, electricity, and water supply in the NAINA region. To ensure smooth execution, Singhal had earlier assured farmers that their primary concerns would be addressed before project implementation. The Betterment Charge reduction is a step toward building trust with local farmers.
The reduction was also a long-standing demand of developers' associations and political leaders, who argued that the hefty charges discouraged investment in the region. With the recent decision, there are signs that developers will now show greater interest in NAINA. Prakash Baviskar, president of the NAINA Builders Welfare Association (NBWA), welcomed the decision. However, he emphasised that this charge should not be imposed at the time of a project's completion or during the issuance of the occupancy certificate. If implemented at these stages, developers will ultimately pass the cost on to homebuyers and farmers.
However, opposition to the project remains, as some farmers continue to resist its implementation. BJP MLA Prashant Thakur from Panvel has warned CIDCO to ensure that farmers' interests are safeguarded before proceeding further, stating that his party will oppose the project if their concerns are not addressed.
Former MLA Balaram Patil from the Peasants and Workers Party (PWP) has reiterated that his party's demand is for the complete removal of Betterment Charges. He also voiced opposition to CIDCO’s 60:40 land-sharing policy, questioning the lack of clarity regarding the development of villages included in the NAINA project.