The Union Territory of Ladakh is lagging in implementing the Digital India Land Records Modernisation Programme (DILRMP) and other development initiatives. Despite the release of substantial funds by the Central Government, the slow pace of progress raises concerns about administrative inefficiencies and the need for strategic interventions to meet developmental objectives within stipulated timelines. DILRMP, an ambitious initiative launched as part of the Digital India campaign, aims to create a transparent, comprehensive, and efficient land record management system. Since its inception in 2008 as the National Land Records Modernisation Programme, the scheme has been revamped under the Digital India initiative and extended up to 2025-26. Its major components include the computerisation of land records, the digitisation of cadastral maps, the integration of land and property registration systems, and the creation of modern record rooms. By ensuring seamless access to accurate and updated land records, DILRMP promises to mitigate land disputes, prevent fraudulent transactions, and eliminate the need for physical visits to revenue offices.
Despite these transformative objectives, the Union Territory of Ladakh has shown minimal progress. The Standing Committee on Rural Development and Panchayati Raj has noted that while the computerisation of property registration has been completed, other critical components such as digitisation of cadastral maps, integration of records, and surveys remain untouched. This lack of advancement is especially disconcerting considering the region received Rs 6.16 crore from the Central Government, of which a staggering Rs 5.37 crore remained unspent as of mid-2024. Such underutilisation of funds indicates systemic inefficiencies that demand immediate rectification.
Several factors contribute to this predicament. Administrative delays and procedural bottlenecks have hindered the timely execution of projects. The Ladakh Land Records Management Agency signed a Service Level Agreement with private firms for digitisation work only in January 2023, years after the program’s launch. This delay has significantly reduced the time available to meet the 2025-26 deadline. Additionally, a lack of capacity building and inadequate training for local officials has slowed the adoption of modern technologies essential for DILRMP’s implementation.
To overcome these challenges, the Ladakh administration must adopt a multi-pronged strategy. Project execution should be fast-tracked by streamlining administrative processes and ensuring close coordination between various stakeholders, including private service providers and Government Departments. Simultaneously, comprehensive training programs should be conducted for revenue officials to familiarise them with advanced technologies like GIS mapping and digital record maintenance. Additionally, periodic monitoring and evaluation should be instituted to track progress and address bottlenecks promptly.
A similar sense of urgency is needed for the effective implementation of the Watershed Development Component under the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (WDC-PMKSY). This program, which focuses on the development of rainfed and degraded areas, has immense potential to enhance agricultural productivity and promote sustainable water resource management in Ladakh. Activities under WDC-PMKSY, such as ridge area treatment, afforestation, and rainwater harvesting, are particularly relevant to Ladakh’s arid and fragile ecosystem. However, the Standing Committee’s findings reveal that an amount of Rs 1.15 crore remains unutilised in the bank account of the State Nodal Agency as of October 2024. This underutilisation is symptomatic of deeper issues, including inadequate project planning and execution. The Ladakh administration must address these shortcomings by engaging with local communities, leveraging traditional knowledge, and integrating modern scientific approaches to ensure the program’s success.
Furthermore, landowners and farmers must be encouraged to participate actively in these programs, as their involvement is crucial for achieving long-term success. The implications of failing to implement these programs effectively extend beyond developmental delays. Transparent and efficient land and watershed management systems are foundational for economic growth, social equity, and environmental sustainability. By addressing these issues, Ladakh can pave the way for improved governance, reduced socio-economic disparities, and a more resilient ecosystem, all in the interest of the UT. The region stands at a critical juncture where timely interventions can unlock its vast potential and transform its developmental trajectory.
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