Why in News?
As of 2024, 98.5% of rural land records have been digitized, marking a significant milestone in India’s efforts toward land reforms and transparency.
- This achievement is part of the Digital India Land Records Modernization Programme (DILRMP), launched in 2008, which aims to digitize and modernize agricultural land records to enhance accessibility and reduce disputes.
Introduction
Land is one of the most important resources in India. For millions, especially in rural areas, it is the primary source of livelihood, a symbol of identity, and a critical financial asset. Yet, land ownership in India has long been plagued by disputes, unclear titles, and outdated records. Recognizing this, the Government of India has been working toward digitizing land records to ensure transparency, ownership clarity, and improved governance.
One of the most significant steps in this direction is the Digital India Land Records Modernization Programme (DILRMP)—a scheme aimed at transforming India’s land record system into a modern, efficient, and transparent framework.
- Ministry:
- Ministry of Rural Development
The programme was initially launched as the National Land Records Modernization Programme (NLRMP) in August 2008 by merging two then-existing centrally sponsored schemes:
- Computerisation of Land Records (CLR) (launched in 1988–89), and
- Strengthening of Revenue Administration and Updating of Land Records (SRA & ULR)
The name was changed from NLRMP to DILRMP in 2016, aligning it with the broader Digital India initiative launched in 2015 by the Government of India. The change emphasized the focus on digital integration and online accessibility of land records across the country.
What is DILRMP?
Background
The DILRMP is a central sector scheme under the Government of India with 100% funding from the Centre. It was launched in 2016, replacing the National Land Records Modernization Programme (NLRMP) which started in 2008.
The aim of DILRMP is to:
- Modernize and digitize land records across India
- Implement a conclusive land titling system with title guarantees
- Promote transparency, reduce disputes, and support financial inclusion
Why Does India Need Digitized Land Records?
According to the Economic Survey 2023-24:
- Over 45% of India’s workforce is dependent on agriculture
- Land is essential for investment, social security, and development
- Yet, over 66% of civil court cases in India are land-related
The benefits of digitizing land records include:
- Transparent land ownership and fair land reforms
- Empowerment of marginalized groups, especially women
- Reduction in litigation and fraud
- Boost in investments by reducing risks in land transactions
- Access to credit and insurance for farmers using land titles
Key Components of DILRMP
| Initiative | Description | Coverage |
|---|---|---|
| ULPIN (Bhu-Aadhaar) | A 14-digit Unique Land Parcel Identification Number based on geo-coordinates | Implemented in 29 States/UTs |
| National Generic Document Registration System (NGDRS) | A unified e-registration system for deeds and land documents | Adopted by 18 States/UTs, data shared by 12 others |
| e-Court Integration | Linking land records with judicial systems for faster dispute resolution | Approved in 26 States/UTs |
| Transliteration of Land Records | Translating land records into 22 official languages to improve access | In use in 17 States/UTs |
| Bhoomi Samman Awards | Recognition of districts with over 99% core component completion | 168 districts in 16 States have received Platinum Grading |
Complementary Scheme: SVAMITVA
The SVAMITVA Scheme (Survey of Villages and Mapping with Improvised Technology in Village Areas) complements DILRMP by:
- Creating land records for inhabited village areas
- Helping villagers use land as collateral for bank loans
- Supporting Gram Panchayats in planning and property tax collection
Benefits of DILRMP (Digitized Land Records)
Improved Land Records Quality
- Digitized, updated, and verified ownership records
- Accessible through online platforms for citizens and authorities
Reduced Fraud and Disputes
- Government-backed title guarantees
- Clear ownership reduces scope for fraudulent transactions
Economic Empowerment
- Land can be used as collateral for loans and insurance
- Encourages investments in agriculture, housing, and infrastructure
Transparent Governance
- Real-time access to land data for planning, tax collection, and policy formulation
- Supports the removal of benami properties
Challenges in Land Record Digitization
| Challenge | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Language Barriers | Many rural residents face difficulty understanding digital systems in unfamiliar languages |
| Community Land Ownership | In regions like the Northeast, land is often communally held, conflicting with individual titling systems |
| Awareness and Outreach | Low awareness among farmers and landowners regarding the benefits and processes of land digitization |
| Outdated Maps and Records | Many cadastral maps are old and do not reflect current subdivisions or transfers |
| Complex Bureaucracy | Land management involves multiple departments, causing inefficiencies and delays |
| Resource Constraints | Lack of funds, trained personnel, and IT infrastructure at the local level limits program implementation |
State-Specific Innovations: Uttar Pradesh Example
The Uttar Pradesh government has enhanced its land records portal UP Bhulekh by adding a feature that shows information about bank loans taken against land in rural areas. This step adds a crucial layer of transparency and helps assess the financial status of land parcels.
Way Forward: Solutions and Recommendations
| Area | Recommendations |
|---|---|
| Integration | Develop a unified digital platform linking land records with registration, tax, and subsidies |
| Record Updation | Use drones and satellite imaging to ensure accurate and current mapping |
| Community Participation | Engage local residents in surveys and verification of land boundaries |
| Awareness Campaigns | Use local media, community radio, and social media to educate people about ULPIN and online services |
| Dispute Resolution | Create dedicated online portals for grievance redressal and status tracking |
| Policy Reforms | Frame a national policy focusing on technology adoption and user-friendly design for digital platforms |
| PPP Model | Collaborate with private tech firms and NGOs for outreach, training, and software development |
| Training and R&D | Train officials in new technologies; invest in blockchain, AI, and GIS-based solutions for secure transactions |
Conclusion
The Digital India Land Records Modernization Programme (DILRMP) is more than just a land digitization scheme—it’s a gateway to inclusive development, economic empowerment, and good governance. By making land ownership transparent, reducing disputes, and unlocking the economic potential of land, DILRMP has the power to transform India’s rural and urban landscape.
However, for it to reach its full potential, India must address the existing challenges through community engagement, updated infrastructure, and smart policy-making. With coordinated efforts and the support of all stakeholders, the dream of a seamless, transparent, and modern land governance system is within reach.
FAQs on DILRMP
1. What is ULPIN?
ULPIN or Bhu-Aadhaar is a 14-digit unique identification number assigned to every land parcel in India based on geo-coordinates.
2. How does DILRMP help reduce land disputes?
By providing digitized, government-backed titles, DILRMP ensures clarity in ownership, thereby reducing conflicts and litigation.
3. What are the benefits of Bhoomi Samman?
Districts that achieve over 99% completion of core DILRMP components receive Bhoomi Samman (Platinum Grading), encouraging timely implementation.
4. Can I check land loans on the UP Bhulekh portal?
Yes, UP Bhulekh now provides information about bank loans against land in rural areas, enhancing transparency.
5. How can digitized land records benefit farmers?
Farmers can use clear land titles to access credit, insurance, and government schemes more easily.
