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Understanding the 1.25 Nali Rule in 2025: What Every Buyer Must Know The 1.25 nali rule is one of the most crucial aspects to understand before purchasing land in Uttarakhand, especially for non-residents and investors. This regulation governs how much land an outsider can legally purchase in hill districts of the state.
🔍 What is a Nali?
In local land measurement:
1 Nali = ~216 sq. meters or 2,325 sq. ft.
So, 1.25 Nali = ~270 sq. meters or 2,906 sq. ft.
📜 The Legal Framework of the 1.25 Nali Rule
The Uttarakhand Zamindari Abolition and Land Reforms Act restricts outsiders (non-agriculturists and non-permanent residents) from buying large parcels of land in hilly areas. However, under Section 143 and recent government clarifications (updated as of 10 July 2025), they are allowed to purchase up to 1.25 nali of residential land in these regions.
📍 Which Areas Are Affected by the Rule?
The 1.25 Nali Rule applies in hill districts, including:
- Nainital
- Almora
- Bageshwar
- Champawat
- Chamoli
- Pithoragarh
- Rudraprayag
- Pauri Garhwal
- Tehri Garhwal
- Uttarkashi
❌ Exempted Districts:
Udham Singh Nagar
Haridwar
In these two districts, outsiders are allowed to purchase land beyond 1.25 nali, subject to local regulations.
🏠 What Type of Land is Permitted?
You can only purchase residential land, not agricultural or forest land.
It must be:
- Converted to residential use
- Outside restricted zones (eco-sensitive or military)
- Approved by the district development authority
🛠 Can I Build a House on 1.25 Nali?
Yes. While it may seem small, this land size is sufficient to build:
- A 2–3 BHK villa
- Cottage with garden/parking
- Homestay or guest house
- All construction must follow the building bylaws of the respective district.
🚫 Can Outsiders Circumvent This Rule?
No. Trying to buy land via local proxies (benami) or splitting ownerships across family/friends may result in cancellation, fines, or legal action. The government has tightened verification and land mutation procedures to detect such frauds.
✅ How to Safely Buy Land Under 1.25 Nali Rule
- Check land category on official Bhulekh portal
- Hire a local legal advisor
- Avoid verbal or token deals
- Verify mutation and conversion status
- Stick to plotted or approved townships
💬 Final Word
The 1.25 Nali Rule is a protective policy to preserve the fragile ecosystem and land rights of hill communities. But for genuine buyers and home seekers, it still allows an excellent opportunity to build a peaceful home in the mountains.
If you’re looking for residential plots that fully comply with this rule, Homedropsvilla offers verified listings, legal guidance, and construction services across all legal zones in Uttarakhand.