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Key Points

The Jharkhand High Court has ordered the state to speed up land surveys using modern tech, as records haven’t been updated since 1932. A PIL highlighted how outdated data fuels farmer disputes, with only two districts partially surveyed so far. The state is now studying advanced methods from Bihar, Andhra, and Karnataka to implement reforms. The court set a September deadline for progress updates while noting staffing shortages as a key hurdle.

Key Points: Jharkhand HC Orders Modern Tech Land Survey to Resolve Decades-Old Delays

  • HC mandates tech-driven survey to replace outdated 1932 records
  • State studying Bihar, Andhra, Karnataka models for modernization
  • Shortage of Amins delaying progress in districts like Latehar
  • Farmers face disputes due to incomplete land documentation
2 min read

Jharkhand HC directs state to expedite land survey using modern technology

Jharkhand High Court directs state to fast-track land surveys using modern tech, addressing 1932-era records causing farmer hardships and disputes.

"The last comprehensive land survey in Jharkhand was conducted in 1932 – PIL filed by Gokul Chand"

Ranchi, June 17

The Jharkhand High Court has directed the state government to accelerate the land survey process using modern technology, expressing concern over the long-pending status of land record updates in the state.

A division bench comprising Chief Justice M.S. Ramachandra Rao and Justice Rajesh Shankar issued the directive on Tuesday while hearing a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by Gokul Chand, seeking a comprehensive land survey and updated land records in Jharkhand.

The court sought details on the state’s progress in adopting modern technology for the survey process.

In response, the state government informed the bench that it is taking proactive steps by sending three teams to Bihar, Andhra Pradesh, and Karnataka to study and understand advanced land survey methods being implemented there.

The government added that one team had already participated in a recent conference on land survey technologies held in Andhra Pradesh. Based on the knowledge gained, the state plans to adopt a technology-driven approach to expedite the land survey work, it said.

Taking note of the state’s efforts, the bench stressed the need for urgency and directed the government to speed up the implementation of modern techniques. The next hearing in the case has been scheduled for September 16, by which time the government is expected to submit an update on the progress made.

According to the PIL, the last comprehensive land survey in Jharkhand was conducted in 1932, and although efforts resumed in 1975, the work remains incomplete even after decades.

The petition highlights that outdated land records are causing significant difficulties for farmers and fueling a rise in land disputes.

During an earlier hearing, the state government had informed the court that survey work has been completed in two districts -- Latehar and Lohardaga. However, the process is hampered by a shortage of skilled personnel, particularly Amin posts, many of which remain vacant.

Taking serious note of the staffing shortfall, the court had earlier directed the Principal Secretary of the Department of Land Revenue and Reforms to file an affidavit detailing when the vacant positions, including that of Amins, would be filled, and when the outdated survey technology would be upgraded.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rahul K.
Finally some progress! Land disputes in Jharkhand have ruined many families. My uncle lost 2 acres due to old records. Courts take years to decide cases. Modern survey will bring transparency 👍
P
Priya M.
Good move but why only 2 districts completed in so many years? Government needs to show more urgency. Land records from British era in 2024? Shocking! Hope they use drones and satellite tech properly.
A
Amit S.
Studying other states' methods is smart. Karnataka's Bhoomi project is excellent. But implementation matters most - hope they don't just copy-paste without considering Jharkhand's tribal land rights issues.
S
Sunita T.
As someone from Latehar district, I can confirm the new survey helped reduce conflicts. But many villages still wait. Government must hire more Amins quickly - no point having tech without ground staff!
V
Vikram J.
Court's intervention was needed. 1932 records in digital India? 😳 This delay shows why we need simultaneous elections - new governments keep changing policies instead of completing important work.
N
Neha R.
Hope they involve local communities properly. Many tribal families have lived on lands for generations without papers. Modern survey should protect their rights, not just benefit big landowners.

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