Government begins nationwide land survey program

New Delhi

The central government has announced a major plan to survey and re-survey land across the country. This new effort aims to solve problems caused by old and incorrect land records. Dr. Chandra Sekhar Pemmasani, Minister of State for Rural Development and Communications, said the program will use new technology like drones and planes, which will cost only 10 percent of traditional methods.

The plan also includes tools like artificial intelligence (AI), GIS mapping, and high-precision machines. The central government will give money, policy help, and technology. States will help by checking details on the ground and giving feedback.

The survey project will be done in five steps. In the first phase, it will cover 3 lakh square kilometers of rural land in two years. The government has set aside ₹3,000 crore for this.

The minister urged states to connect Aadhaar numbers with land records. This will help stop fraud and ensure the right people get benefits like PM-KISAN and crop insurance. He spoke at a national workshop in Guntur, Andhra Pradesh, where many officials and experts were present.

The minister said updating land records is key to better land use. It helps banks give loans, businesses invest, and farmers get support. He also noted that only 4% of villages have completed surveys. Many maps are outdated and don’t match current data. Strong political support and teamwork are needed to finish the job.

He added, “Smart cities and safe farming all begin with proper land records.”