Indian Town Revolutionizes Land Records with Avalanche Blockchain.

A groundbreaking initiative in Dantewada, Chhattisgarh, has set a new standard for land governance in India. The district administration has successfully digitized over 700,000 land records, securing them on the Avalanche blockchain to ensure transparency and prevent tampering. This innovative move marks a significant step towards modernizing land management practices in the region.

Digitization of Land Records: A Historical Perspective

The digitization process encompasses land records dating back to the 1950s, showcasing the district’s commitment to preserving historical data while enhancing accessibility. On March 6, the Dantewada District Administration announced this significant achievement through the Office of Land Records. The project was executed in collaboration with the Indian blockchain startup LegitDoc, powered by Zupple Labs.

Ensuring Transparency and Accessibility

Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer Mayank Chaturvedi, the district collector of Dantewada, emphasized the importance of this initiative for the local community. To facilitate access to land information, the government has installed kiosks in every sub-district of the town. These kiosks allow both citizens and government officers to retrieve vital land information efficiently.

To protect sensitive information, the application requires prior authorization for access. LegitDoc CEO Neil Martis explained, “The application is a permissioned application wherein records can be accessed via Tehsil level (sub-district administration) revenue officers.” This ensures that only authorized personnel can view the records, maintaining the integrity of the data.

Blockchain-Based Land Records: A Game Changer

The blockchain-based land records application enables officers to search for land properties, download, and view digitized records securely stored on the blockchain. This system allows for the verification of various government records, including B-1 forms (elevator installation), records of rights, plot registers, ownership records, and cadastral maps.

Cointelegraph was granted exclusive access to a public blockchain-based explorer, which provides an open overview of on-chain data, smart contracts, and on-chain activity related to the Dantewada application. This transparency fosters trust among the community and enhances the overall governance of land records.

Empowering Communities and Reducing Disputes

One of the most significant benefits of this initiative is its potential to eradicate the manual searching of land records, which has often led to disputes and confusion. By digitizing and securing ownership records on the Avalanche blockchain, tribal communities and farmers in the region can now access their land information more easily, reducing the likelihood of conflicts over land ownership.

The implementation of this blockchain technology not only streamlines the process of accessing land records but also empowers local communities by providing them with the tools they need to secure their land rights. As the initiative gains traction, it could serve as a model for other regions in India and beyond, demonstrating the transformative power of blockchain technology in governance.

Conclusion: A New Era for Land Governance

The digitization of land records in Dantewada represents a significant leap forward in land governance, combining modern technology with historical data preservation. As more regions consider adopting similar initiatives, the potential for improved transparency, security, and community empowerment is immense. The success of this project could pave the way for a new era in land management across India, showcasing the vital role of blockchain technology in enhancing governance.

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