Mere Ownership of Agricultural Land Not Enough to Claim Agricultural Income, Rules ITAT

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(ITAT) The Income Tax Appellate Tribunal , Chennai Bench, has held that simply owning agricultural land is not sufficient to justify claims of agricultural income. In a significant ruling, the Tribunal upheld the addition of 50% of the assessee’s declared agricultural income as unexplained under Section 68 of the Income Tax Act.

The assessee had filed his return declaring substantial agricultural income.

A search was conducted at his premises, after which assessment proceedings were reopened.

Assessment Officer’s Findings

The taxpayer claimed ownership of about 47 acres of wet and dry land.

However, he failed to provide supporting evidence of cultivation, such as:

  • Land-revenue records (Chitta, Adangal)
  • Details of agricultural expenditure
  • Proof of sale of agricultural produce

Due to lack of documentation, the Assessing Officer treated the entire agricultural income as unexplained credit.

CIT(A) Observations

Only patta documents (land ownership) were submitted; no cultivation-related records were provided.

The assessee was unable to demonstrate actual agricultural operations.

Considering the circumstances, the CIT(A) accepted 50% of the declared agricultural income as reasonable and treated the remaining 50% as unexplained.

ITAT’s Decision

The Tribunal upheld the view of the CIT(A) and dismissed the assessee’s appeals for both assessment years.

Key observations:

Ownership of land does not automatically prove agricultural activity.

No evidence of expenditure, crop details, yield, or sales was produced.

Income claimed as agricultural income must be backed by verifiable records.

The ITAT concluded that treating half of the agricultural income as unexplained was justified.

Key Takeaways

Taxpayers claiming agricultural income must maintain:

  • Cultivation records
  • Expense details
  • Sale receipts or proof of buyers

Mere possession of agricultural land is not enough to support agricultural income claims.

Inaccurate or unsubstantiated claims may lead to additions under Section 68 as unexplained credits.



From Site Visit to Sale Deed: What to Expect When Buying a Plot

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Buying a plot of land is a big decision—whether it’s for building your dream home or making a smart investment. But for many, the process can seem confusing. That’s why we’ve created this simple guide to take you through every step—from your first site visit to the final registration of your sale deed.

Step 1: Do Your Research

Start with choosing the right place in Pune. Look for Bhor, Kamshet, or Mulshi, which have good roads, schools, hospitals, and a scope for development. Also, decide on your budget, including hidden costs like stamp duty and registration charges.

Step 2: Site Visit

After shortlisting a couple of choices, visit the plot in person. Observe the area around the road connectivity and ensure that the actual boundaries are the same as on paper. Take photographs or videos so that you can decide later.

Step 3: Legal Checks

This is a very important step. Make sure the seller actually owns the land and that there are no legal problems, like loans or disputes. You should:

Ask for the Encumbrance Certificate (shows if the land has loans or claims)

Check the title documents to confirm legal ownership

Make sure the land use is approved (residential, commercial, etc.)

Step 4: Sign the Agreement to Sell

Once you’re sure everything is clear, the seller will prepare a document called the Agreement to Sell. This paper includes the price, payment schedule, and other terms. You usually pay a token amount (advance) at this stage.

Step 5: Register the Sale Deed

The Sale Deed, the final document that transfers ownership to you. It must be registered at the sub-registrar’s office. To do this, you’ll need:

The signed sale deed

Identity proof (Aadhaar, PAN)

Passport-size photos

Property tax receipts

Encumbrance certificate

You also need to pay stamp duty and registration fees, which vary by state.

Step 6: After Registration

Once registered, update land records (mutation) with your name. After that, you officially own the plot and can begin construction or development.

Secure Your Investment with Genuine Plots 

Your trusted partner in plot investments across Pune. From circle rate analysis to ROI calculation, buying, selling, loan guidance, and agri-certificate application, Genuine Plots supports you at every step. 




How to Calculate ROI Before Buying a Plot

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If you're planning to invest in land, it's important to know how much profit you can earn in the future. ROI helps you understand that. ROI means Return on Investment – how much money you make from your investment.

Let’s learn how to calculate ROI in an easy way.

What is ROI?

ROI (Return on Investment) tells you how much profit you can earn from the plot you buy. It helps you decide if the plot is a good investment or not.

Easy ROI Formula:

ROI (%) = (Profit / Total Investment Cost) × 100

Profit = Final value (selling price) – Total cost (all money spent to buy and register the plot)

Steps to Calculate ROI

  1. 1. Find your total investment:

Add the plot price + registration + stamp duty + legal or development costs.

  1. Estimate the future selling price:

Check what similar plots in the area are selling for and guess the value after a few years.

  1. Use the formula:

Put the numbers in the formula to find your ROI percentage.

Example:

You buy a plot in Pune for ₹20,00,000.

You also spend ₹2,00,000 on registration and other charges.

Total Investment = ₹22,00,000

Estimated Selling Price in 5 years = ₹30,00,000

Profit = ₹30,00,000 - ₹22,00,000 = ₹8,00,000

Now use the formula:

ROI = (₹8,00,000 / ₹22,00,000) × 100 = 36.36%

So, your return will be about 36% in 5 years.

Tips to Remember

Always check the circle rate (government rate of land) before buying.

Look for areas with upcoming roads, schools, or metro—these increase plot value.

Think about how long you will keep the land. Longer time usually means more profit.

Add all costs while calculating, even legal or loan charges.

Secure Your Investment with Genuine Plots 
Your trusted partner in plot investments across Pune. From circle rate analysis to ROI calculation, buying, selling, loan guidance, and agri-certificate application, Genuine Plots supports you at every step.




Understanding PMRDA Sanctioned Plots: What Buyers Should Know

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Land purchase is a valuable investment, and making sure it is legally approved and development-ready is important. In Pune, PMRDA (Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority) has an important role to play in controlling land development and urban planning. PMRDA-approved plots give buyers peace of mind, knowing that the land meets legal and development standards.

What Are PMRDA-Sanctioned Plots?

PMRDA is responsible for the planned development of the Pune Metropolitan Region. When a plot is sanctioned by PMRDA, it means the land has been officially approved for development. PMRDA-sanctioned land to ensure that they meet government regulations.

These plots give a clear idea of the potential of the land for building, as indicated in the authority's site inspection certificates. These certificates are required for acquiring development permissions, thus making the approval process quicker and smoother for the buyers.

Why PMRDA-Sanctioned Plots Are Important

PMRDA is responsible for maintaining planned growth and organized infrastructure development. Sanctioned plots ensure that uncontrolled construction is prevented, and the region develops in a structured and sustainable way.

Benefits of Buying a PMRDA-Sanctioned Plot

  1. Legal Security – Ensures that the plot is legally verified and eligible for construction.
  2. Reduced Risk – Minimizes the chances of legal disputes or issues related to land ownership.
  3. Access to Infrastructure – These plots are typically located in areas with planned roads, electricity, water supply, and other essential amenities.
  4. Better Investment Value – With planned development and infrastructure support, PMRDA-sanctioned plots are more likely to appreciate in value over time.

Secure Your Investment with Genuine Plots 

Your trusted partner in plot investments across Pune. From circle rate analysis to ROI calculation, buying, selling, loan guidance, and agri-certificate application, Genuine Plots supports you at every step. 




How to plan a Sustainable & Eco Friendly Bungalow on Your Plot

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Building your own home or bungalow is a dream for many—and what if that dream could also be sustainable?

You’ve probably heard the term “sustainable living” quite a lot lately. But when it comes to homes, it’s more than just a buzzword. A sustainable home doesn’t just help the environment—it also helps you. From electricity bills to indoor air quality, a sustainable home offers long-term comfort.

1. Start with Smart Site Planning and Passive Design

Before you start building, think about how your home will sit on the land.

Your bungalow should face east or south so that you get maximum natural light and ventilation throughout the day.

Place large windows on south-facing walls to let in sunlight, and use shades or overhangs to block extra heat.

Use of brick or concrete help in keeping indoor temperatures stable.

2. Use Local and Natural Building Materials

Employ local material such as bamboo, reclaimed wood, or stabilized compressed earth blocks.

For walls, use Insulated Concrete Forms (ICFs). They are long-lasting, resistant to damage, and cool your home in the summer and warm it up during winter.

Choose low volatile organic compounds (VOC) paints, glues, and adhesives to improve indoor air quality.

3. Focus on Energy Efficiency

Install solar panels to reduce your electricity bills and carbon footprint.

Use energy-efficient appliances and smart systems like programmable thermostats and automatic lighting to reduce energy wastage.

4. Water Smartly

Establish a rainwater harvesting system.

Treat and reuse shower and sink water (called greywater) for your garden.

Fit low-flow appliances in bathrooms and kitchens to cut water consumption.

5. Green Landscape for Outdoors

Use native plants which require less water and are pest-resistant naturally.

Employ green roofs and vertical gardens to enhance insulation as well as add greenery.

For driveways and sidewalks, have gravel or permeable pavers that allow water to percolate through and minimize runoff. 

6. Follow Smart Construction Practices

Plan your home to accommodate expansion in the future to avoid breaking walls at a later stage.

Organize a waste management system—separate wastes and recycle whenever possible.

  1. Add Value to Property with Green Certifications

To contribute value to your property, aim to achieve green certifications like LEED or IGBC. Also, talk to your Pune local authority for building codes and environmental legislations.

Conclusion

With proper planning and materials, your green house will be environmentally friendly, energy-efficient, and healthy—and yet give your family a superior way of living.




Which is a Better Investment A Plot or an Apartment Understanding the Financial Advantages

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Buying property is a big decision. Many people wonder whether to invest in a plot or an apartment. Both have their own benefits and risks. In this blog, we will look at the key points of both options to help you decide what works best for you.

Which One Offers Better Appreciation Potential?

Plots: Land normally appreciates at a quicker pace, particularly in emerging regions where demand is increasing. As connectivity and infrastructure are enhanced, plot prices normally increase considerably in the long run.

Apartments: Appreciation is based on building age, maintenance, and location. Older properties might witness a slower appreciation in value relative to well-maintained or new properties in good locations.

Do Plots or Apartments Provide Better Rental Income?

  • Plots: A plot does not generate immediate rental income unless developed or leased for specific purposes (such as commercial use).
  • Apartments: Apartments offer a steady source of rental income. 

Which Has Lower Maintenance Costs and Depreciation?

  • Plots: Land requires minimal upkeep cost and does not depreciate.
  • Apartments: Apartments incur ongoing maintenance costs, including society charges, repairs, and renovations. Additionally, as buildings age, their value may depreciate if not well-maintained.

Is It Easier to Get a Loan for a Plot or an Apartment?

  • Plots: Getting loans to acquire land may be more difficult since banks provide few financing alternatives, often demanding a bigger down payment.
  • Apartments: Home loans for apartments are simpler to avail. Financial institutions and banks provide different financing plans. Reduced interest rates, and extended repayment terms are also included.

Which Offers More Customization and Control?

Plots: With a plot, one has the freedom to fully customize, allowing the buyer to design and construct according to their choice.

Apartments: Aspects of customization are restricted in apartments since alterations have to conform to building codes and homeowners' association regulations.

What Are the Legal and Regulatory Considerations?

Plots: Possession of land as such involves fewer legal problems, provided the title is clear and encroachments do not exist.

Apartments: Flats fall under homeowners' association rules, which may impose controls on changes, rentals, and other aspects of ownership.

Conclusion
If you want greater appreciation potential, flexibility in construction, and long-term returns, a plot can be an appropriate option. However, make sure the property is cleared legally, suitably located, and suits your budget plans before taking a decision.Genuine Plots can assist you in navigating the land-buying process—helping you determine circle rates, calculate ROI, and secure legally safe properties at the right price in Pune.




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