A dramatic increase in benchmark land values in Odisha's Bolangir district has raised concerns among people. Both buyers and sellers are allegedly having difficulty completing land transactions.
The benchmark value has reportedly grown over the last four years, with current values surpassing those in Bhubaneswar.
Steep Rise in Benchmark Value
According to sources, the Odisha government has altered benchmark land valuations across the state for the new fiscal year. While rates vary by region, Bolangir town and nearby areas have seen a major surge.The district's benchmark valuation doubled in 2022-24 and then again in 2024-26, totalling a fourfold increase in four years. This high increase damaged the affordability of land and slowed purchases.
Buyers And Sellers Affected
Residents reported that the growth posed issues for both landowners and prospective buyers. Many people who want to sell their land to cover pressing obligations like medical bills or their children's weddings are apparently unable to find buyers.
Kaldar Bag, a landowner, stated, "The altered pricing of the properties have harmed us. Nobody wants to buy our land now that the prices have risen. I want to marry my daughter, but no one is buying my farm.

Issue Raised With the Government
Landowners addressed Bolangir MLA Kalikesh Narayan Singh Deo, requesting him help in the case.
Singh Deo stated, "From 2022 to 2024, the benchmark valuation of land in Bolangir doubled. It increased again from 2024 to 2026, thus a fourfold modification within four years is remarkable. Some intellectuals came to speak with me about the matter, and I will file a written representation to the Odisha government requesting reconsideration. I will also look for data on the basis of which the benchmark value was doubled twice. It is said that land prices in Bolangir have surpassed those in Bhubaneswar. If the issue is not resolved before the next Assembly session, it will undoubtedly be brought in the House.