Odisha's revenue administration is a critical element in managing the states resources and ensuring equitable distribution of benefits to its people. This article delves into the intricacies of Odisha's revenue system, its structure, reforms, and challenges, providing a comprehensive understanding of how the system operates.
1. Historical Background of Revenue Administration in Odisha
1.1 Pre-Independence Era
Revenue administration in Odisha has its roots in the Mughal and British systems of governance.
During the Mughal era, land revenue was the primary source of income, collected through intermediaries like zamindars.
The British introduced the Permanent Settlement in parts of Odisha, where zamindars were made responsible for revenue collection, often leading to exploitation.
1.2 Post-Independence Reforms
Post-independence, the abolition of zamindari and other intermediary systems was a significant reform.
The Odisha Government introduced various acts such as the Odisha Estates Abolition Act, 1951, to bring land directly under state management.
2. Structure of Revenue Administration in Odisha
Odisha's revenue administration functions under the Department of Revenue and Disaster Management, headed by the Revenue Secretary.
2.1 Organizational Structure
State Level:
Revenue and Disaster Management Department, headed by the Chief Secretary and Revenue Secretary.
Commissioners of Revenue Divisions oversee broad administrative zones.
District Level:
District Collectors act as the key authority in revenue administration, responsible for land records, land acquisition, and disaster management.
Sub-Division Level:
Sub-Collectors handle revenue matters in subdivisions.
Tehsil Level:
Tehsildars are the primary officials responsible for land records, revenue collection, and dispute resolution.
Village Level:
Revenue Inspectors and Village Officers (or Patwaris) maintain revenue records and facilitate collection at the grassroots level.
3. Key Functions of Revenue Administration in Odisha
3.1 Land Revenue Collection
Land revenue remains a significant source of income for the state, particularly in rural areas.
Odisha follows a cadastral system for land assessment and taxation.
3.2 Land Records Management
Digitization of land records under the Bhulekh Odisha initiative has improved transparency and efficiency.
RoR (Record of Rights) is issued to landowners, documenting ownership and land use.
3.3 Land Reforms and Distribution
Odisha has implemented several land reform policies to redistribute land among marginalized groups.
Acts like the Odisha Land Reforms Act, 1960, focus on:
Ceiling on land holdings.
Protecting tenant rights.
Preventing land alienation among Scheduled Tribes.
3.4 Disaster Management
The department plays a pivotal role in disaster management, particularly in a disaster-prone state like Odisha.
Ensures relief, rehabilitation, and reconstruction during calamities like cyclones, floods, and droughts.
3.5 Revenue Dispute Resolution
Revenue courts at various levels address disputes related to land ownership, tenancy, and boundaries.
4. Revenue Reforms in Odisha
4.1 Digitization of Land Records
Introduction of Bhulekh Odisha and Bhunaksha portals for online access to land records and cadastral maps.
Mobile apps have been developed for ease of access by citizens.
4.2 Single Window Clearance
Simplification of processes for land acquisition and industrial use through a single-window system.
Facilitates ease of doing business in Odisha.
4.3 E-Governance Initiatives
Online revenue payment systems like E-District services.
Automation of revenue courts to streamline dispute resolution.
4.4 Modern Survey Techniques
Adoption of GIS (Geographical Information System) and satellite imagery for accurate land surveys.
Ensures updated and error-free land records.
4.5 Focus on Tribal Land Protection
Implementation of the Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006.
Provides land titles to tribal communities for forest land they have traditionally used.
5. Challenges in Odisha's Revenue Administration
5.1 Land Disputes
High incidence of disputes related to ownership, inheritance, and boundaries.
Prolonged legal processes hinder resolution.
5.2 Inadequate Infrastructure
Lack of adequate staff and modern equipment in remote areas hampers efficient administration.
Poor internet connectivity limits the effectiveness of e-governance initiatives.
5.3 Tribal Land Alienation
Despite legal protections, tribal land alienation remains a significant issue.
Exploitative practices and lack of awareness among tribal communities contribute to this problem.
5.4 Disaster Vulnerability
Frequent natural disasters disrupt revenue collection and land administration processes.
Need for resilient infrastructure and systems.
5.5 Encroachments
Encroachments on government and community lands are a persistent issue, particularly in urbanizing areas.
6. Recent Developments and Future Directions
6.1 Revenue Collection through Technology
Enhanced use of AI and blockchain for maintaining land records and ensuring tamper-proof documentation.
6.2 Land Bank Creation
The Odisha Government has established a land bank to support industrialization and infrastructure development.
6.3 Strengthening Disaster Resilience
Integration of disaster management systems with revenue administration.
Development of real-time tracking systems for disaster-affected areas.
6.4 Tribal Welfare Programs
Continued efforts to safeguard tribal land rights and promote inclusive growth through better awareness campaigns.
6.5 Capacity Building
Training programs for revenue officers to enhance efficiency and responsiveness.
OPSC Notes brings Prelims and Mains programs for OPSC Prelims and OPSC Mains Exam preparation. Various Programs initiated by OPSC Notes are as follows:-- OPSC Mains Tests and Notes Program
- OPSC Prelims Exam 2020- Test Series and Notes Program
- OPSC Prelims and Mains Tests Series and Notes Program
- OPSC Detailed Complete Prelims Notes