What does India’s modernization of land records mean? Describe the National Generic Document Registration System’s (NGDRS) features in this context. (Answer in 250 words)
Model Answer Introduction Land reforms in India were designed to address feudal landlordism, ensure landownership for tenants, and increase agricultural productivity. However, the lack of effective and equitable implementation of these reforms has contributed to the persistence of poverty in the couRead more
Model Answer
Introduction
Land reforms in India were designed to address feudal landlordism, ensure landownership for tenants, and increase agricultural productivity. However, the lack of effective and equitable implementation of these reforms has contributed to the persistence of poverty in the country. Below are the key ways in which ineffective land reforms have exacerbated poverty:
1. Land Inequality
The failure of land reforms, such as the land ceiling act, and issues like benami transactions have resulted in a concentration of land ownership. As of 2020, the top 10% of landowners in India hold 45% of the farmland (Global Land Inequality Report, 2020). This unequal distribution restricts access to land for marginalized communities, limiting their ability to generate income and perpetuating poverty.
2. Exploitative Conditions for Tenant Farmers
A significant portion of India’s rural population works as tenant farmers or sharecroppers under exploitative conditions. In Punjab, for example, one-third of farmers are involved in farming leased land, often paying high rents to landlords, leaving them with little surplus. This cycle of exploitation contributes to sustained poverty among these farmers.
3. Fragmentation of Landholdings
Due to the failure of land reforms, landholdings in India are highly fragmented. Approximately 70% of agricultural households hold less than one hectare of land (National Statistical Office, 2021). This fragmentation makes it difficult for farmers to adopt modern agricultural practices, lowering productivity and income.
4. Limited Access to Formal Credit
The absence of proper land records and conflicting land claims prevent many farmers from accessing formal credit. A Reserve Bank of India report highlights that only 40% of small and marginal farmers are covered by formal credit. This forces farmers to rely on informal lenders who charge high interest rates, further entrenching poverty.
5. Legal Complexity and Conflicting Laws
Land being a state subject has resulted in varying state laws, creating legal complexity and prolonged litigation. This hampers equitable land distribution and reduces rural investment, further aggravating poverty in vulnerable communities.
Conclusion
Addressing these issues through comprehensive land reforms is crucial to reducing poverty and promoting sustainable development in India.
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In recent years, India has taken proactive steps to modernize land records under the Digital India Land Records Modernization Programme (DILRMP), 2008 to create an integrated land management system. The purpose and rationale behind land modernization is to usher in a system of updated land records,Read more
In recent years, India has taken proactive steps to modernize land records under the Digital India Land Records Modernization Programme (DILRMP), 2008 to create an integrated land management system. The purpose and rationale behind land modernization is to usher in a system of updated land records, automated and automatic mutation, integration between textual and spatial records, inter-connectivity between revenue and registration, to replace the present deeds registration and presumptive title system with that of conclusive titling with title guarantee.
Significance of land record modernization in India
In view of this, the National Generic Document Registration System (NGDRS) was developed as a common, generic and configurable application for the execution of land registration documents across the country. It has been initiated by the Department of Land Resources, Ministry of Rural Development. As many as 28 States / UTs have adopted the National Generic Document Registration System (NGDRS) for Land Records.
Key Features:
It is a crucial step towards achieving efficient and equitable land governance, fostering sustainable development, and empowering individuals and communities. Thus, the land modernisation project must be implemented in full letter as well as spirit to reap its ultimate potential.
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