The Tamil Nadu government has introduced significant changes to the procedure for converting agricultural wetlands for non-agricultural purposes in non-planning areas. Under the revised system, approval powers have been transferred from district-level authorities to the Directorate of Town and Country Planning (DTCP). The move is expected to benefit landowners, builders and property developers by reducing administrative delays and speeding up the processing of land conversion applications while retaining existing regulatory safeguards. Under the new arrangement, the DTCP will have the authority to grant prior approval directly. Previously, applicants were required to obtain clearance from the district administration before approaching the DTCP for planning permission. The revised procedure has been introduced through amendments to the Tamil Nadu Town and Country Planning Act, 1971, following approval during the recent Assembly session. The government aims to make the land conversion approval process more efficient, transparent and accessible for applicants. This decision is part of a broader initiative to simplify land-use regulations and encourage investment in Tamil Nadu. It follows another recent regulatory change that removed the requirement for separate Agriculture Department approval for industrial development on dry agricultural land. The revised rules are expected to support construction activities, facilitate property development and reduce the time required to obtain necessary land-use approvals.