Open Access Research Article

A CRITICAL ANALYSIS OF CEILING ON AGRICULTURAL LAND HOLDINGS AND REDISTRIBUTION OF SURPLUS LAND

Author(s):
L. UMA RANI M. AJAY SUNDAR
Journal IJLRA
ISSN 2582-6433
Access Open Access
Volume 3
Issue 6
DOI https://www.doi-ds.org/doilink/09.2026-57356499/A CRITICAL ANALYSIS OF CEILING ON AGRICULTURAL LAN
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Abstract

ABSTRACT
This paper critically examines the legal framework governing ceiling on agricultural land holdings and redistribution of surplus land in India, with particular reference to Tamil Nadu. Land ceiling legislation was introduced as part of post-independence agrarian reform to reduce excessive concentration of agricultural land, prevent accumulation of land in the hands of a few persons and provide land to landless and economically weaker sections. The study examines the constitutional foundation of land redistribution under Articles 38 and 39(b) and (c), the protective framework of Articles 31A and 31B, and the present constitutional position under Article 300A. It also analyses the Tamil Nadu Land Reforms (Fixation of Ceiling on Land) Act, 1961 and the legal procedures relating to identification, acquisition and distribution of surplus land. The research adopts a qualitative doctrinal methodology based mainly on constitutional provisions, statutes, judicial decisions, government reports and secondary legal literature. The analysis shows that land ceiling legislation remains constitutionally significant and can legitimately promote distributive justice. However, its practical effectiveness has been affected by concealed holdings, family transfers, statutory exemptions, incomplete land records, prolonged litigation and delays in redistribution. Judicial decisions have generally recognised the importance of agrarian reform while placing constitutional limits on legislative power. The paper recommends better land-record integration, transparent identification of surplus land, time-bound proceedings, stronger anti-evasion measures and effective post-assignment support for beneficiaries. It concludes that the success of land ceiling law depends not merely upon fixing a ceiling but upon ensuring genuine and timely redistribution.

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Author Details

Authors: L. UMA RANI & M. AJAY SUNDAR
Registration ID: 1013163 | Published Paper ID: IJLRA13163 & IJLRA13164
Year: Sep-2026 | Volume: 3 | Issue: 6
Approved ISSN: 2582-6433 | Country: Delhi, India
Page No.: 859-877

Article Information

A CRITICAL ANALYSIS OF CEILING ON AGRICULTURAL LAND HOLDINGS AND REDISTRIBUTION OF SURPLUS LAND

Authors: L. UMA RANI, M. AJAY SUNDAR

  • Journal IJLRA
  • ISSN 2582-6433
  • Volume 3
  • Issue 6
Citation Download Paper Full Details Search on Google Search on Google Scholar

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International Journal for Legal Research and Analysis

  • AbbreviationIJLRA
  • ISSN2582-6433
  • AccessOpen Access
  • LicenseCC 4.0

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