Initiative to Digitalise Land Record in Telangana: A Critical Evaluation of the Dharani Portal

Abstract

The Telangana government's Dharani portal, launched in 2020, is a transformative initiative aimed at modernizing land administration by digitizing land records and streamlining transactions. The portal integrates various land-related services, offering transparency and reducing bureaucratic inefficiencies that have historically plagued the system. Through digital records, human intervention is minimized, thereby reducing corruption and delays in land registrations, mutations, and transfers. However, challenges persist, including outdated land records, incorrect data entries, and issues related to legal ownership validation, particularly when older records are involved. Furthermore, while the system promises automated processes and real-time updates, technical issues such as server downtime and lack of clarity in legal provisions have hampered its effectiveness.

The paper critically evaluates the strengths and limitations of the Dharani portal, highlighting its role in facilitating property transactions and reducing land disputes in Telangana. It discusses the ongoing need for improvement in digital infrastructure, data accuracy, and public accessibility to ensure the system's success. Recommendations include refining the integration of textual and spatial data, updating cadastral maps, and addressing legal ambiguities. Ultimately, while the Dharani portal represents a significant step towards efficient land governance, sustained efforts in digital literacy, infrastructure, and legal clarity are essential for realizing its full potential.