Rover-based land survey stuck as ‘tatima’ records yet to be updated

Even after the purchase of nearly 300 GPS-enabled rovers for land surveys and property mapping, the ambitious project of the Haryana Government has not yet taken off. These rovers were purchased under the Haryana Large Scale Mapping Programme, which promises to modernise land records and eliminate disputes. Rovers are lying idle in tehsils and sub-tehsils. Here’s what you need to know about the key project and the reasons behind the delay in its implementation.

What is rover-based land survey project?

The project involves using advanced GPS-enabled rovers to conduct precise land surveys and property mapping. Instead of the old chain or tape measurements, the rover records the exact latitude and longitude of the land demarcation. This ensures scientific accuracy, reduces errors and creates digital and tamper-proof land records.

Why did the Haryana Government launch this initiative?

This project was initiated by the state government with an aim to ensure large scale mapping. The state government also kept a provision of this project in the Budget. Traditional demarcation methods — based on survey stones, chains and maps — date back to the time of Raja Todar Mal. These methods are prone to human error and often lead to disputes, overlapping claims and prolonged litigation. By adopting rover technology, the government aims to ensure error-free demarcation, transparency in ownership records and paperless and seamless land management, while reducing land disputes.

When were rovers purchased and at what cost?

The rovers were procured in 2023 at an approximate cost of Rs 10 lakh each and distributed across Haryana’s tehsils and sub-tehsils. The initiative is being executed by the Revenue Department of Haryana. Training programmes for revenue staff have also been conducted under the guidance of Survey of India experts.

Where will the project operate?

The rovers will function across all districts. To support their operations, the department has already established 19 Continuously Operating Reference Stations (CORS), which provide digital signals needed for rover-based GPS accuracy. Every piece of land surveyed will be geo-referenced to Google Maps, making records transparent and accessible.

Why are rovers lying unused?

Officials cite two main reasons — non-updation of ‘tatima’ records and non-finalisation of survey fees. ‘Tatima’ refers to partition or subdivision records of land. Currently, around 18 lakh tatimas are pending across the state. Without this baseline data, rover mapping cannot proceed. The government has also yet to fix charges for rover-based demarcation. Without standardised rates, operational use of rovers has been stalled.

Has any progress been made despite the delay?

Apart from providing two training sessions to employees, a standard operating procedure (SOP) for rover-based demarcation has been issued. The SOP will make mandatory that all future land partitions and updates use rovers. A mobile app is also being developed to provide real-time data access for officials and citizens.

How will rover-based system work in practice?

When a surveyor places a rover on a piece of land, it captures the exact latitude and longitude coordinates. These are matched with CORS signals and maps, generating highly accurate, real-time data. The system ensures no overlapping of claims, with digital records linked to maps and seamless integration with land ownership details. This will replace tedious groundwork like digging survey stones or stretching measuring tapes.

What are expected benefits for citizens?

Once operational, the system will provide error-free land records accessible online, reduce the time and cost of land demarcation, minimise litigation over land boundaries, allow real-time verification through the upcoming mobile app, and ensure tamper-proof property records with digital security. It will empower landowners with reliable, transparent records and reduce dependence on middlemen and private surveyors who charge high rates for demarcation.

When is the project expected to finally start?

Revenue officials say the project is in its “final stage.” Pending ‘tatima’ records are being updated, and survey fee is under consideration by the government. The department expects rover-based mapping to commence by October end.

What challenges remain before rollout of project?

Clearing the backlog of 18 lakh ‘tatima’ records, finalising demarcation charges, conducting a fresh statewide staff training and ensuring integration with cadastral maps.

How does this fit into larger land management reforms?

The rover-based system is part of the Haryana Government’s larger push to digitise land management. It reflects the government’s attempt to modernise land governance, improve transparency and align with Digital India’s vision.