India Achieves Major Milestone in Rural Land Digitization, Modernizing Land Management for Millions
In a significant development for rural India, nearly 95% of land records have now been digitized, transforming the management of land ownership. This modernization is part of the Digital India Land Records Modernization Programme (DILRMP), which aims to streamline land administration, reduce disputes, and provide accessible, secure land ownership information for millions of rural households. The Union Minister of Rural Development, Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan, recently highlighted this achievement, emphasizing that it addresses long-standing challenges related to paperwork, ownership disputes, and access to land records.
The Need for Land Digitization in India
India’s traditional, manual land record-keeping system has often led to issues like ownership disputes, fraud, and legal complications due to inaccuracies or missing records. The shift to digital records addresses these concerns by enhancing transparency and providing reliable information that is accessible online. By digitizing land records, disputes can be resolved faster, reducing the burden on courts. Additionally, marginalized communities benefit from easier access to land rights, and digital integration with geospatial mapping supports accurate land management and planning.
Digital India Land Records Modernization Programme (DILRMP)
Launched as a Central Sector Scheme in 2016, DILRMP aims to create an integrated and transparent land records management system, fully funded by the central government. The program’s goal is to establish a real-time land information system, improve land use planning, reduce land fraud, minimize physical visits to offices, and enable seamless data sharing across various organizations. DILRMP’s extension until 2025-26 includes advanced features like Aadhaar-based integration and computerization of revenue courts.
Key achievements under DILRMP include:
Computerization of Land Records: 95% of rural land records, covering over 6.26 lakh villages, are now digitized.
Cadastral Maps: About 68% of cadastral maps have been digitized nationally.
Integration of Sub-Registrar Offices: Approximately 87% of Sub-Registrar Offices (SROs) are now linked with the land record system.
Key Initiatives under DILRMP
1. Unique Land Parcel Identification Number (ULPIN):
Known as “Bhu-Aadhar,” this 14-digit alphanumeric code uniquely identifies each land parcel using its geo-coordinates. Implemented in 29 states and union territories, ULPIN is expected to simplify real estate transactions, minimize property disputes, and improve disaster management efforts.
2. National Generic Document Registration System (NGDRS):
NGDRS is a nationwide e-Registration system, allowing for uniform registration processes, online document submissions, payment of fees, and appointments. Currently, 18 states and UTs have adopted this system, and 12 others share data with the national portal.
3. e-Court Integration:
Linking land records with the judiciary allows for efficient, authentic land information access, aiding in faster case resolution and reducing disputes. This integration has been established in 26 states and union territories.
4. Transliteration of Land Records:
To enhance accessibility, the program offers transliteration of land records into any of the 22 official languages listed in the Indian Constitution, enabling easier access for citizens. Transliteration is now active in 17 states and UTs.
5. Bhoomi Samman:
Recognizing districts that have achieved over 99% digital transformation of core land records, this initiative has awarded “Platinum Grading” to 168 districts across 16 states.
Impact of Digitized Land Records
The digitization of land records benefits India in various ways:
Enhanced Transparency and Reduced Disputes: Digital records lower the chances of fraudulent activities and streamline the resolution of land ownership conflicts.
Accessible Land Information: Digital records provide rural communities, especially marginalized groups, with secure, accessible proof of ownership, supporting social and economic stability.
Efficient Land Use Planning: With real-time data and geospatial mapping, authorities can make more informed land use and policy decisions.
Fair Compensation During Land Acquisitions: Digitized records ensure accurate data for fair and timely compensation in cases of land acquisition or disaster relief.
Conclusion
India’s push toward the digitization of rural land records is a transformative step toward transparent, efficient, and accessible land governance. By implementing modern technologies and creating systems that integrate with the judiciary and other sectors, DILRMP strengthens rural land administration and empowers communities. As the government continues to advance this program, India is poised for a future where land ownership is secure, accessible, and inclusive, setting the stage for economic growth and greater social equity across rural areas.
