THE RAILWAYS ACT, 1989 – Chapter IV(A) – Section 20(G)

20(G) Criterion for Determination of Market-Value of Land

(1) The competent authority shall adopt the following criteria in assessing and determining the market-value of the land:-

(i) The minimum land value, if any, specified in the Indian Stamp Act, 1899 (2 of 1899), for the registration of sale deeds in the area, where the land is situated; or
(ii) The average of the sale price for similar type of land situated in the village or vicinity, ascertained from not less than fifty per cent, of the sale deeds registered during the preceding three years, where higher price has been paid,
whichever is higher.

(2) Where the provisions of sub-section (1) are not applicable for the reason that:-

(i) The land is situated in such area where the transactions in land are restricted by or under any other law for the time being in force in that area; or
(ii) The registered sale deeds for similar land as mentioned in clause (i) of sub-section (1) are not available for the preceding three years; or
(iii) The minimum land value has not been specified under the Indian Stamp Act, 1899 (2 of 1899) by the appropriate authority,
The concerned State Government shall specify the floor price per unit area of the said land based on the average higher prices paid for similar type of land situated in the adjoining areas or vicinity, ascertained from not less than fifty per cent, of the sale deeds registered during the preceding three years where higher price has been paid, and the competent authority may calculate the value of the land accordingly.

(3) The competent authority shall, before assessing and determining the market-value of the land being acquired under this Act:-

(a) Ascertain the intended land use category of such land; and
(b) Take into account the value of the land of the intended category in the adjoining areas or vicinity,
For the purpose of determination of the market-value of the land being acquired.

(4) In determining the market-value of the building and other immovable property or assets attached to the land or buildings which are to be acquired, the competent authority may use the services of a competent engineer or any other specialist in the relevant field, as may be considered necessary by the competent authority.

(5) The competent authority may, for the purpose of determining the value of trees and plants, use the services of experienced persons in the field of agriculture, forestry, horticulture, sericulture, or any other field, as may be considered necessary by him.

(6) For the purpose of assessing the value of the standing crops damaged during the process of land acquisition proceedings, the competent authority may utilize the services of experienced persons in the field of agriculture as he considers necessary.

Forward reference⇒Section 20(H)