Maharashtra Government Provides Update on Mihan Project Compensation for Affected Farmers
In a significant development regarding the long-pending Mihan project in Nagpur district, the Maharashtra government has officially informed the legislative council that the process of distributing developed plots to eligible project-affected persons (PAPs) is actively progressing. According to the latest government data, over seventy-five percent of eligible individuals have already received their promised plots, marking a substantial step forward in resolving this decades-old issue.
Compensation Details and Financial Payouts
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, in a detailed written reply submitted to the council, revealed that the government has disbursed more than Rs100 crore to 2,048 out of the total 2,701 project-affected persons. This substantial financial compensation is being provided in lieu of the employment opportunities that were originally promised to these individuals when their land was acquired for the ambitious Mihan project.
The disclosure came in direct response to a starred question raised by prominent MLCs Krupal Tumane, Manisha Kayande, and Hemant Patil. These legislators highlighted that approximately 2,000 hectares of valuable farmland across five villages in Nagpur and Hingna talukas were acquired back in 1997 specifically for the Mihan project. At the time of this acquisition, farmers were assured of comprehensive compensation packages that included financial settlements, developed plots equivalent to 12.5% of their original land holdings, and guaranteed employment opportunities.
Historical Context and Current Status
The MLCs pointed out that despite these promises made nearly three decades ago, as of December 2025, a significant number of project-affected persons had not yet received either the promised plots or the employment opportunities. Furthermore, they emphasized that approximately 300 farmers had not even received the basic land acquisition compensation that was rightfully owed to them, creating substantial hardship for these families.
In his comprehensive written response, Chief Minister Fadnavis provided specific details about the compensation distribution process. He confirmed that compensation for the acquired land from Kalukhi, Khapri, Telhara, Sumuthana, and Dahegaon villages has been systematically distributed to landholders through the Nagpur collector's office. The five villages contributed significantly different amounts of land to the project, with Kalukhi providing 450.50 hectares, Khapri contributing 425.57 hectares, Telhara offering 464.74 hectares, Sumuthana providing 108.86 hectares, and Dahegaon contributing 405.21 hectares.
Developed Plots and Employment Alternatives
For those project-affected persons who specifically opted for developed plots as part of their compensation package, the government has prepared a comprehensive township layout spanning 77.73 hectares at Sumuthana in Hingna taluka. According to an official government letter dated April 1, 2025, out of the 360 eligible project-affected persons who chose the 12.5% developed plot option, the process of executing lease agreements and formally handing over plots to those who have paid the required development charges is currently well underway.
Regarding the employment component of the original promises, Chief Minister Fadnavis outlined the government's alternative approach. Instead of providing direct employment, the government is now offering a rehabilitation grant of Rs5 lakh to each project-affected person in lieu of jobs. Of the total 2,701 project-affected persons, 2,048 have already received this Rs5 lakh payment, resulting in a total payout amounting to Rs102.48 crore.
Government Job Reservations and Future Opportunities
The Maharashtra government has also implemented additional measures to support the project-affected persons. A significant 5% reservation has been earmarked for Mihan project-affected persons in all state government job advertisements. This reservation policy creates a dedicated pathway for these individuals to secure government employment based on their qualifications and capabilities.
For those project-affected persons who have chosen not to accept the Rs5 lakh cash grant but hold valid project-affected certificates, the government has established clear guidelines. These individuals remain eligible to apply for government recruitment opportunities based on their educational qualifications, relevant experience, and specific skills. This dual approach provides flexibility for affected persons to choose the compensation method that best suits their individual circumstances and career aspirations.
The comprehensive update from the Maharashtra government represents a concerted effort to address the longstanding concerns of farmers and landowners affected by the Mihan project, while simultaneously advancing the state's infrastructure development goals in the Nagpur region.
