Maharashtra is set to introduce Geographic Information System (GIS) maps in property sale deeds from October, replacing the traditional method of describing plot boundaries through directions, landmarks and adjoining properties. The move is aimed at making property transactions more transparent, digitally verifiable and easier to track.
The new system is expected to be introduced in selected districts during the first phase before being expanded across the state. The Department of Land Records has submitted a proposal to the state government for conducting land measurements before property registration in 10 districts.
GIS Maps to Show Precise Property Location
Under the proposed system, properties mentioned in sale deeds will be linked to their precise locations on digital maps. Instead of relying mainly on descriptions such as boundaries on the east, west, north and south, the GIS-based process will provide a digital representation of the property.
Officials said the integration of GIS data with property registration could help address problems arising from unclear or overlapping land boundaries. Such disputes can occur when land records are fragmented or when multiple claims relate to adjoining parcels.
The initiative is part of a wider effort to improve the digital verification of property transactions. A GIS-linked sale deed could allow authorities and other stakeholders to identify the location and boundaries of a property more accurately during future transactions.
Land Measurement Proposed Before Registration
The Department of Land Records has proposed implementing ‘Mojini’, a land measurement process, before property registration in the initial 10 districts. Following government approval, authorities are expected to prepare a standard operating procedure for implementing the process.
The proposed framework will also integrate K-Prat, the digital land measurement system, with the registration department. The integration will be carried out along with other technological preparations before the system becomes operational in the selected districts.
High-resolution satellite imagery is expected to be used during the initial stage. Officials indicated that the imagery would provide a high level of accuracy until detailed ground-level resurvey and mapping is completed.
Integration of Land and Building Data
The proposed GIS-linked registration framework is expected to combine information from different government agencies. This could include land ownership records, building footprints and other property-related data.
The integration would allow property information to be connected with its geographical location, providing a digital reference for future transactions. It could also make it easier to identify instances where property boundaries overlap or where information in different records does not correspond.
The Centre has been working with states on the adoption of technology-based land registration processes and has sought inputs from the GIS industry. States have also been encouraged to develop the technological infrastructure and capabilities required to implement such systems.
Expected to Reduce Property Disputes
Officials said GIS-linked sale deeds could provide several benefits, including more precise property identification, improved records and easier verification of boundaries. The system may also help detect overlapping claims and reduce opportunities for fraudulent property transactions.
The initiative is expected to complement other property registration reforms, including Aadhaar-linked registration, prior land measurement in applicable cases and model stamp duty offices.
For property buyers and sellers, the proposed system could change how land parcels are identified in official documents. Instead of depending primarily on written boundary descriptions, transactions would increasingly rely on digitally mapped property information.
The initial rollout in 10 districts will provide an opportunity for the state to assess the integration of land measurement, GIS mapping and property registration before expanding the system across Maharashtra.
