To modernize and digitize urban land records through the use of advanced mapping technologies such as drone surveys, LiDAR, and GIS-based systems, the Panchkula municipal corporation has commenced the implementation of NAKSHA – Urban Land Survey Programme, a project initiated by the central government under the department of land resources, ministry of rural development.
As part of this initiative, the municipal commissioner has granted authorization to specially designated NAKSHA survey teams to conduct ground verification activities throughout all municipal wards.
These teams will assess residential and commercial properties to verify Records of Rights (RoR), ownership documents, and to capture high-resolution imagery using drones and cameras for precise mapping of land parcels.
The survey teams have also been authorized to engage with property owners or their designated representatives to gather and confirm ownership-related information. Residents are encouraged to cooperate and provide necessary documents such as sale deeds, mutation records, and other relevant papers to facilitate the smooth execution of the exercise. Separate notices have been distributed to municipal councillors, Resident Welfare Associations (RWAs), homeowners’ welfare associations, market welfare associations, and group housing societies, urging them to assist the survey teams and promote active participation.
The corporation has stated that citizen involvement will be essential in establishing transparent, accurate, and accessible digital land records under the NAKSHA initiative. According to the ministry, the objective of the programme is to update urban land records to guarantee reliable documentation of ownership, enhance the quality of life, improve urban planning, and minimize land-related disputes. The IT-based system is expected to promote transparency, efficiency, and support sustainable development.
However, concerns have been raised by residents. SK Nayar, president of Citizens’ Welfare Association, Panchkula, wrote to the MC Commissioner questioning the need for door-to-door surveys. “When all such information is already online with HSVP, why are individuals approaching? Can’t such data be gathered from HSVP or the revenue office itself? MC survey staff can verify property details from official records instead of justifying their survey.,” he said.
