In the digital era, accessibility and transparency are crucial elements for the effective management of public records. Jharbhoomi, the online land record portal of Jharkhand, exemplifies this transformation, making land-related information easily accessible to the public. Launched under the National Land Records Modernization Program (NLRMP), Jharbhoomi aims to streamline the process of accessing and managing land records in Jharkhand.

The Genesis of Jharbhoomi

Before Jharbhoomi, accessing land records in Jharkhand involved lengthy processes, bureaucratic red tape, and frequent trips to government offices. Recognizing the need for a more efficient system, the Government of Jharkhand, in collaboration with the National Informatics Centre (NIC), developed Jharbhoomi to digitize land records and make them available online. This initiative not only enhances transparency but also empowers citizens by providing them with easy access to critical information.

Key Features of Jharbhoomi

1. Online Access to Land Records

Jharbhoomi allows users to access land records online by entering details such as district, circle, halka, mauza, and plot number. Users can view and download these records, which include information about ownership, area, and land type.

2. BhuNaksha (Land Maps)

One of the significant features of Jharbhoomi is the BhuNaksha, which provides cadastral maps of lands. These maps are essential for verifying land boundaries and ownership details. Users can access these maps by entering the plot number on the BhuNaksha portal.

3. Online Mutation Application

Jharbhoomi facilitates the online submission of mutation applications, which are necessary for transferring land ownership. Users can track the status of their applications and receive updates online, reducing the need for physical visits to government offices.

4. Payment of Land Revenue (Lagan)

The portal enables users to pay land revenue online, ensuring timely payments and reducing the hassle of visiting government offices. Users can view outstanding dues and make payments directly through the portal.

Using Jharbhoomi: A Step-by-Step Guide

Registering on Jharbhoomi

  1. Visit the Jharbhoomi Portal: Go to the official Jharbhoomi website.
  2. User Registration: Select the ‘Registration’ option and fill in the necessary details, including personal and address information.
  3. Submit the Form: Complete the registration process by submitting the form.

Viewing Land Records

  1. Log In: Sign in to the Jharbhoomi portal using your credentials.
  2. Select the Appropriate Option: Click on the ‘View Your Account’ or ‘Khasra Details’ tab.
  3. Enter Details: Input the required details such as district, circle, halka, and plot number.
  4. View Records: The land records will be displayed on the screen. You can also print or download these records.

Accessing BhuNaksha

  1. Visit BhuNaksha Portal: Navigate to the BhuNaksha section on the Jharbhoomi website.
  2. Enter Plot Details: Provide details like district, circle, halka, and plot number.
  3. View Map: The cadastral map will be displayed, showing the boundaries and ownership details of the plot.

Applying for Mutation

  1. Log In to Jharbhoomi: Access the portal and log in with your credentials.
  2. Select Mutation Application: Click on the ‘Online Application’ tab and choose ‘Mutation’.
  3. Fill in Details: Provide the necessary details and submit the application.
  4. Track Status: Monitor the status of your application through the ‘Check Application Status’ option.

Paying Land Revenue

  1. Access the Payment Section: On the Jharbhoomi portal, select ‘Online Lagan’.
  2. Enter Property Details: Provide details like district, circle, halka, and plot number.
  3. Make Payment: Follow the instructions to complete the payment process online.

Impact and Benefits

The introduction of Jharbhoomi has had a profound impact on the management of land records in Jharkhand. Some of the key benefits include:

  • Increased Transparency: The availability of land records online reduces the chances of fraudulent transactions and disputes.
  • Efficiency: Online access to records and services like mutation applications and revenue payments save time and effort for citizens.
  • Empowerment: By providing easy access to land information, Jharbhoomi empowers citizens to make informed decisions regarding their property.
  • Reduction in Corruption: The digitization of records minimizes the need for middlemen and reduces opportunities for corruption.

Challenges and the Road Ahead

Despite its many benefits, Jharbhoomi faces challenges such as ensuring data accuracy, integrating with other government databases, and providing user-friendly interfaces. The government continues to work on improving the portal, addressing these challenges, and expanding its features.

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Conclusion

Jharbhoomi represents a significant step forward in the digitization of land records in India. By making land-related information accessible, transparent, and efficient, it not only benefits the citizens of Jharkhand but also sets a precedent for other states to follow. As technology continues to evolve, initiatives like Jharbhoomi will play a crucial role in transforming governance and enhancing public services.