What is Unique Land Parcel Identification Number (ULPIN)?
Approximately 30% of rural land parcels in India have received a Unique Land Parcel Identification Number (ULPIN). This initiative aims to assign a 14-digit alpha-numeric identity to each land parcel. The data is sourced from the Ministry of Rural Development’s portal.
What is ULPIN?
ULPIN stands for Unique Land Parcel Identification Number. It is part of the Digital India Land Records Modernisation Programme (DILRMP). Each ULPIN is a unique identifier for land parcels, streamlining land record management across India.
Background of the Initiative
The initiative was launched in 2021. It is a continuation of the earlier National Land Record Modernisation Programme, which began in 2008. The program was revamped and implemented as a central sector scheme on April 1, 2016.
Current Statistics
On October 18, 2024, over 28.72 crore land parcels are listed in the ministry’s portal. Of these, more than 8.4 crore ULPINs have been generated. This indicates an important but incomplete implementation of the ULPIN system.
State-wise Progress
Progress varies by state. States like Gujarat, Goa, Madhya Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh have shown notable advancements in assigning ULPINs. Conversely, states such as West Bengal, Bihar, and Uttarakhand are lagging.
Incentives for Modernisation
In the Union Budget for FY2024-2025, the government announced incentives for modernizing land records in rural areas. The Ministry of Rural Development has urged states to report the number of land parcels by the end of October. States must also set targets for ULPIN implementation to qualify for these incentives.
Financial Incentives
According to government guidelines, 11 states, including Bihar, Gujarat, and Tamil Nadu, can receive up to Rs 100 crore if they meet their targets for this year. This includes geo-referencing cadastral maps and generating ULPINs for targeted villages. Other states can receive between Rs 30 crore and Rs 60 crore based on their performance.
Importance of ULPIN
The ULPIN initiative is crucial for improving land record transparency. It aims to reduce disputes over land ownership and facilitate easier access to land-related services. The unique identification of land parcels will simplify transactions and enhance the efficiency of land management.
Future Outlook
The success of ULPIN depends on state-level implementation. Continued government support and incentives are vital. The focus remains on achieving complete coverage of ULPINs across rural land parcels. This will enhance the digital infrastructure of land records in India and promote better governance.
Challenges Ahead
Despite the progress, challenges remain. States with slow implementation must address issues such as bureaucratic delays and lack of resources. Coordination between state and central governments is essential for overcoming these hurdles.
The ULPIN initiative represents an important step towards modernizing land records in India. With continued efforts and incentives, the goal of comprehensive land parcel identification can be achieved.
Month: Current Affairs - October, 2024
Category: Government Schemes Current Affairs