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NAKSHA Project

 

NAKSHA Project


Introduction

The National Geospatial Knowledge-based Land Survey of Urban Habitations (NAKSHA) is a groundbreaking pilot project launched by the Government of India to modernize urban land records. Covering 152 Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) across 26 States and 3 Union Territories (UTs), this initiative aims to leverage advanced geospatial technology to ensure transparency, efficiency, and accuracy in property ownership records.

This project is expected to play a significant role in improving urban planning, reducing land disputes, and supporting sustainable development.


What is the NAKSHA Project?

The NAKSHA (National Geospatial Knowledge-based Land Survey of Urban Habitations) project is an advanced land survey initiative driven by geospatial technology. It is designed to update and digitize land records in urban areas, ensuring that property ownership is well-documented and verifiable.

Nodal Ministry

The project is led by the Ministry of Rural Development, Government of India, and implemented by the Department of Land Resources in collaboration with the Survey of India and National Informatics Centre Services Inc. (NICSI).


Aims & Objectives of the NAKSHA Project

  1. Modernize Urban Land Records:
    • Establish accurate and updated land ownership records using geospatial data.
  2. Enhance Urban Planning:
    • Facilitate the development of smart cities and modern urban infrastructure with reliable land data.
  3. Reduce Land Disputes:
    • Minimize property disputes through clear, verifiable ownership records.
  4. Promote Transparency:
    • Develop a Web-GIS-based IT system to make land records easily accessible to all stakeholders.
  5. Support Sustainable Development:
    • Improve urban governance and promote effective land resource management for sustainable urban growth.

Key Features of the NAKSHA Project

1. Drone-Based Land Survey

The project uses drones for high-precision aerial surveys, enabling accurate mapping and boundary identification. This technology ensures comprehensive land surveys and eliminates errors that can arise from manual methods.

2. Web-GIS Platform

An IT-based land record management system powered by Geographic Information Systems (GIS) is a core component of the NAKSHA project. This platform allows real-time data access, ensuring transparency and accountability in land management.

3. Public Accessibility

The NAKSHA project enables citizens to access digital land records, promoting transparency and simplifying property verification processes. This feature aligns with the government's "ease of living" initiative.

4. Pilot Launch in 152 ULBs

The project will initially be implemented across 152 Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) in 26 States and 3 Union Territories (UTs).

5. Estimated Cost

The NAKSHA project is funded at ₹194 crore, with 100% financing provided by the Government of India.


Importance of the NAKSHA Project

1. Transparency & Trust

Digital records promote transparency in real estate transactions and reduce the potential for corruption. Accurate and verifiable records instill trust among stakeholders.

2. Ease of Living

Simplified property documentation processes make it easier for citizens to verify ownership and resolve disputes quickly, contributing to improved quality of life.

3. Efficient Urban Governance

Accurate land records enable local authorities to make informed decisions about urban planning and resource allocation, improving governance and infrastructure development.

4. Smart City Development

Reliable geospatial data facilitates the development of smart cities, promoting modern infrastructure and sustainable growth.


Challenges & Proposed Solutions

Challenges

  1. Data Security:
    • Ensuring the safety and privacy of digital land records from cyber threats.
  2. Technological Training:
    • Training local officials and citizens to effectively use geospatial and IT platforms.
  3. Public Adoption:
    • Building trust in the accuracy and accessibility of digital records.

Solutions

  1. Robust Cybersecurity Measures:
    • Implement data encryption and multi-layered authentication to protect land records.
  2. Training Programs:
    • Conduct workshops and training sessions for officials and the public to ensure smooth adoption of the system.
  3. Community Engagement:
    • Launch awareness campaigns to educate the public on the benefits of digital land records and promote transparency.

Future of the NAKSHA Project

The NAKSHA project is expected to become a cornerstone of urban governance in India. By expanding its reach across more cities, it will transform how land records are managed, supporting sustainable urban development and reducing property-related disputes.


Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs) for UPSC CSE

  1. Which ministry is responsible for the implementation of the NAKSHA project?
    a) Ministry of Home Affairs
    b) Ministry of Urban Development
    c) Ministry of Rural Development
    d) Ministry of Agriculture

    Answer: c) Ministry of Rural Development

  2. What technology does the NAKSHA project primarily use for land surveys?
    a) Satellite Imagery
    b) Ground-Penetrating Radar
    c) Drone-Based Surveys
    d) Manual Surveys

    Answer: c) Drone-Based Surveys

  3. Which organization collaborates with the Department of Land Resources to implement NAKSHA?
    a) Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)
    b) Survey of India
    c) Geological Survey of India
    d) National Highway Authority of India

    Answer: b) Survey of India

  4. What is the estimated cost of the NAKSHA project?
    a) ₹100 crore
    b) ₹150 crore
    c) ₹194 crore
    d) ₹250 crore

    Answer: c) ₹194 crore


Mains Question for UPSC CSE

"Discuss the significance of the NAKSHA project in transforming urban land records in India. How can technology-driven initiatives like NAKSHA promote transparency, reduce disputes, and enhance urban governance?"

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