The state government is considering introducing a new law for sharecroppers, a move that could enable them to access various government welfare benefits.
Chief Minister Mohan Majhi indicated this while directing the Revenue Department to examine the issue in detail. He said the proposed legislation would aim to formally recognise sharecroppers and address long-standing gaps in their access to official schemes.
If implemented, the new law is expected to allow sharecroppers to avail themselves of government benefits that are currently linked to land ownership or formal tenancy records.
Meanwhile, the Revenue Minister said that the government is studying laws and frameworks adopted by other states to understand best practices before finalising any proposal. Inputs from these models will help shape a policy suited to local conditions, the minister added.
The development signals a possible policy shift towards greater inclusion of tenant farmers and sharecroppers within the formal agricultural support system.