The Goa government has finalized a proposal to introduce different minimum land values for different parcels within Mormugao taluka, making it the first of the state's 12 talukas to adopt a zone-based system. Revenue Minister Atanasio 'Babush' Monserrate confirmed that the notification will be issued soon, following a successful pilot in Taleigao village.
New System Replaces Uniform Rates
Previously, a single minimum rate applied to an entire village, regardless of variations in infrastructure, proximity to the coast, or urban centers. Under the new policy, minimum land rates within a village will vary based on factors such as location, road connectivity, civic amenities, and commercial activity. The revenue department has replaced the uniform-rate system with a category-based method that divides villages into smaller zones with different rates, calling the approach more practical, rational, and effective.
In 2024, the government increased minimum land prices in Mormugao, with current rates ranging from Rs 8,000 to Rs 25,000 per square meter. The revised rates will be used to calculate stamp duty and will vary by zone and plot size.
Addressing Overvaluation and Revenue Loss
The government stated that the earlier uniform system caused overvaluation in some areas and undervaluation in others, leading to inconsistencies, reduced transparency, increased objections, and revenue loss. It failed to account for differences such as distance from the coast, sea views, proximity to urban centers, road connectivity, civic amenities, and commercial activity. The new system aims to correct these issues by valuing individual plots based on their specific characteristics and amenities.
Monserrate had earlier told TOI that minimum land values would depend on the character of a place within a village. This change partially modifies the October 30, 2024 order that notified revised minimum land rates for Tiswadi, Salcete, and Mormugao talukas. The government plans to extend the same system to other talukas later.
