Full formGovernment & Exams
LAOstands forLand Acquisition Officer
Full Form of LAO
What is LAO?
A Land Acquisition Officer (LAO) is a government official appointed at the district level in India to oversee the process of acquiring private land for public infrastructure projects such as highways, railways, dams, and industrial corridors. The LAO operates under the state Revenue Department and is responsible for conducting surveys, assessing land value, calculating compensation, and ensuring compliance with the Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement Act, 2013. This role is critical in balancing development needs with the rights of landowners, often involving public hearings and negotiations. The LAO is typically a senior officer from the state civil services or the revenue cadre, and their decisions can be challenged in courts. In competitive exams like UPSC, state PCS, and SSC, questions related to land acquisition laws, compensation formulae, and the role of LAO are common. Understanding this position helps aspirants grasp the practical implementation of land-use policies in India.
LAO का फुल फॉर्म
भूमि अधिग्रहण अधिकारी
Example
The LAO issued a Section 4 notification for the proposed national highway widening, inviting objections from affected landowners.
LAO — frequently asked questions
What is the full form of LAO?
The full form of LAO is Land Acquisition Officer, a government official responsible for acquiring private land for public infrastructure projects.
What are the main duties of a Land Acquisition Officer in India?
The main duties include conducting land surveys, determining compensation under the Right to Fair Compensation Act, holding public hearings, and issuing final award notices for acquisition.
Is the position of LAO relevant for government exam preparation?
Yes, LAO is a key concept in UPSC, state PCS, and SSC exams, especially in subjects like land reforms, revenue administration, and the Land Acquisition Act.