Kerala is on its way to bringing in a whole new range of technology-based initiatives, which will see the use of blockchain, to make even more secure and transparent land transactions in the state. According to Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, the initiatives will help to curb fraud, avoid duplication of registrations, and ensure that people get access to most services regarding registrations without having to visit government offices.
Speaking at the annual Registration Department Day celebrations in Azhikkode, Kannur district, the Chief Minister said the government is working towards delivering maximum public services at citizens’ doorsteps through digital platforms. The event was held at the location of Kerala’s first registration office, adding historical significance to the occasion.
As per CM Vijayan, there is interest in using blockchain technology to facilitate the development of unalterable records for land as well as to increase trust in property transactions. Together with this initiative, there is also a proposed adoption of scientific methods for identifying fake documents as well as for preventing several registrations of one property due to various problems experienced in property markets.
As stated by the Chief Minister, the important role that the Registration Department has in the development of Kerala goes beyond just protecting property rights, since this department is one of the biggest contributors to state revenues. It has been a decade of reform in terms of making property registration clearer, more efficient, and people-friendly.
He stated that the problem was such that citizens had to make several journeys to the registration offices. Such activities have been done away with as a result of simplification of procedures and the digitalization of the process. According to him, the government adopted a zero-tolerance position against corruption to the point where it made it clear that irregularities during the registration process will not be condoned.
CM Vijayan also drew attention to the fact that the offices of the sub-registrars in the state have been computerized. The procedures followed in the registration of lands have been made more efficient and more effective. The procedures followed in the registration of lands in Kerala have become a model for the other states, according to him.
In addition to land transactions, the government has also worked towards making registration services more inclusive. There have been special efforts made towards providing equality in access to these services for the transgender community and other marginalized communities. The marriage registration processes have also been made simpler. The notice under the Special Marriage Act is now accessible online.
With Kerala on the verge of eradicating landlessness, the state government has further extended the exemption from stamp duty to economically weaker sections of society for the registration of land as well as the construction of houses. The chief minister has also appreciated the role of the Registration Department in the registration of the LIFE Mission Housing Scheme.
Adding to this is the fact that the efficiency of the department has also had a very positive impact on the finances of the state, as there has been a year-on-year increase in the revenues generated for registration services. With the coming reforms in areas like the use of blockchain technology, the state of Kerala will be known for its transparent and people-centric government in the field of property registration.
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