NAKSHA Programme Transforms Urban Land Records

The Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration (LBSNAA) hosted a two-day National Training-cum-Workshop on the NAKSHA Programme in October 2025. This initiative, under the Digital India Land Records Modernization Programme (DILRMP), aims to modernise urban land governance across India. District Magistrates and Collectors from different states gathered to prepare for the nationwide rollout of this innovative project.

Background and Purpose of NAKSHA Programme

NAKSHA is a one-year pilot scheme focused on urban land records. It integrates geospatial mapping, Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS), and Web-GIS technologies. The goal is to create a transparent, efficient, and accessible system for urban land administration. This programme supports the vision of ‘One Nation, One Land Record’ by digitally mapping every urban land parcel and authenticating ownership details.

Technological Components

The programme uses advanced geospatial tools to map land accurately. GNSS and Web-GIS facilitate real-time data collection and display. These technologies help reduce disputes by clarifying land ownership and boundaries. They also assist in property tax calculation and urban planning. Aerial data acquisition and modern survey techniques are key to updating land records.

Workshop Structure and Training

The workshop included detailed sessions on the NAKSHA workflow and ground-truthing methods. Participants received technical training on GIS and Web-GIS tools. Hands-on demonstrations covered GNSS-based land parcel surveys. Experts shared field experiences and challenges in implementing the programme. The training aimed to build administrative and technical capacity among district officers.

Legal and Administrative Framework

Sessions addressed the legal aspects of land record management under NAKSHA. Administrative guidelines for smooth implementation were discussed. Best practices for public awareness campaigns were shared to ensure citizen engagement. The programme requires coordination between multiple government departments and agencies.

Key Stakeholders and Expert Contributions

Officials from the Department of Land Resources, Survey of India, and state governments contributed expertise. Institutions like the Madhya Pradesh State Electronics Development Corporation and the National Institute of Geo-informatics Science and Technology provided technical support. Senior civil servants shared practical insights on managing land records and governance challenges.

Significance and Future Prospects

NAKSHA aims to eliminate ambiguity in urban land ownership and improve governance efficiency. It will support better urban planning and resource management. The programme is expected to enhance transparency and reduce litigation related to land disputes. Successful implementation will set a precedent for digitisation of land records nationwide.