Process of land-use conversion simplified

BENGALURU: Thanks to technology the process of land-use conversion from agriculture to non-agriculture in the state of Bangalore has got simpler.

The government has launched a simplified affidavit-based online land-use conversion, which can not only expedite the process by reducing delays and paperwork, but could also help check corruption.

This process was not only time-consuming but also plagued by touts and bribes. The new online system is designed as a solution for all the problems and ensure that the applicant can complete it with the help of a self-affidavit. If the system works well, land conversion will soon be a smooth process “Affidavit-based conversion replaces all previous guidelines of conversion procedure. Rising complaints from landowners about harassment and delay by revenue offices prompted the government to simplify the conversion process by using sworn-in affidavits,” said Munish Moudgil, commissioner of survey, settlement and land records.

Satish Jagirdar, a real estate professional said “Until now, converting an agricultural plot to a commercial one involved submitting over 20 documents and seeking approval from different departments from a period ranging from six months to one year. Most applicants ended up paying bribes for the certificates or giving up their efforts.”