Shimla, September 1: The Sukhu government of Himachal Pradesh has announced significant changes to the rules governing property transactions and registrations. During the monsoon session of the assembly, the government revealed plans to amend stamp duty regulations to make property transfers between women and family members easier and more affordable.
Revenue Minister Jagat Singh Negi informed the assembly that the stamp duty rates on many documents related to property sales and gifts had not changed for years. Additionally, frequent minor amendments to the old rules had created confusion among the public. In response, the government has decided to implement a new and simplified schedule (Schedule 1-A) to replace the outdated provisions.
To this end, the Indian Stamp (Himachal Pradesh Second Amendment) Bill, 2026 has been introduced. The government aims to modernize and clarify the complex laws dating back to 1899.
Under the proposed new rules, if a woman registers property valued up to one crore rupees in her name or receives property as a gift, she will only need to pay a 4% stamp duty. For properties valued over one crore rupees, the stamp duty for women will be set at 8%.
For men and others, the stamp duty will be 6% for property registrations valued up to 40 lakh rupees, and 8% for properties exceeding that amount.
The government has also significantly reduced the cost of property transfers within families. Transfers between blood relatives, such as spouses or parents and children, will now incur only a 0.1% stamp fee based on the total property value. This change is expected to provide substantial relief in the division and transfer of family assets.
However, there will be no separate provisions for individuals from outside the state or those acquiring land under Section 118 with special permission. In such cases, a flat 12% stamp duty will apply.
Additionally, general affidavits prepared in tehsil offices will now carry a stamp fee of 100 rupees. The cost for executing legal documents related to adoption has been set at 2,000 rupees.
The government believes these changes will make the property registration process more transparent, straightforward, and convenient for citizens, while also providing additional incentives for women to own property.
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