International Journal of Land Review Article
Land Administration and Governance in India: Journey from Ancient Era to Neo-Liberal Era
Abstract
Land governance in India has evolved through a long historical process beginning from the Vedic period, when private ownership of land gradually emerged with the development of settled agriculture. Over time, different administrative systems under medieval rulers, the British colonial regime, and post-independence federal governance shaped the structure of land administration in the country. Although land reform programmes, particularly abolition of intermediaries, were introduced to ensure equitable distribution of land, their implementation remained uneven due to factors such as inaccurate land records, administrative inefficiency, resistance from vested interests, and limited participation of beneficiaries. Initiatives were taken by the Government of India to computerize land records, also updating age-old legacy records by bringing two programmes, namely Computerization of Land Records (CLR) and Strengthening Revenue Administration and Updating of Land Records (SRA & ULR); later, these programmes were merged under the umbrella of the Digital India Land Records Modernization Programme (DILRMP). This was aimed at bringing transparency, e-governance, and efficient land governance. DILRMP also endeavors to integrate allied departments, improve record accuracy, promote conclusive titling, and strengthen citizen-centric services. The North-Eastern region of India presents additional complexities because of its diverse customary practices and administrative systems. Recognizing the limitations of traditional land reforms, policy emphasis gradually shifted towards modernization and digitization of land records. Despite challenges related to customary laws, urban property systems, and interdepartmental coordination, land records modernization has significant implications for rural development, agricultural productivity, dispute resolution, and inclusive governance in India.
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