Mumbai, March 11 (NationPress) The Maharashtra government declared on Wednesday that the duration for completing land surveys within the state will now be 30 days, significantly reduced from the earlier 60 to 90 days.

Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule shared this update during the Legislative Assembly session, presenting an ambitious strategy to enhance the Land Records Department using advanced technology and a substantial recruitment initiative.

This announcement was made in response to a 'Calling Attention' motion initiated by MLA Babanrao Lonikar, which highlighted the ongoing backlog of land survey cases and the shortage of staff.

“To minimize human error and to expedite processes, the government plans to utilize 1,500 Rover machines. Currently, 1,250 machines are operational, with the aim of equipping each land surveyor. This marks the first overhaul of the organizational structure since 2003, including the addition of 994 new positions to alleviate the burdens on current staff,” stated the Minister.

He confirmed that the positions for Deputy District Superintendents would be filled within the next three months.

According to the Minister, high-performing maintenance surveyors will now qualify for a selection grade.

“In pursuit of transparency and efficiency, we are transitioning to a technology-driven model. Funding for the additional Rover machines will be allocated through the District Planning Committee and Land Acquisition resources,” he added.

Presently, the Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar Commissionerate oversees the responsibilities of eight districts. The government is actively evaluating a proposal to create a second Revenue Commissionerate and a Deputy Director of Land Records office in either Nanded or Latur to bolster administrative efficiency, as stated by the Minister.

Furthermore, Minister Bawankule announced that the policy to reclassify lands granted to ex-servicemen, landless farmers, and agricultural workers under the Maharashtra Agricultural Lands (Ceiling on Holdings) Act from 'Class-2' to 'Class-1' is set to be finalized by March 31, 2026. MLA Shweta Mahale had advocated for exemptions regarding the premiums charged for this conversion for lands allocated to ex-servicemen.

Currently, these lands are under the Class-2 category, which imposes legal restrictions on their transfer.

In response to this request, the Revenue Minister affirmed, “The government is favorable toward designating these lands as 'Freehold', and the necessary procedures are nearing completion.”

Minister Bawankule further elaborated, “A notification related to the conversion rules was issued on January 14, 2026. After reviewing objections and suggestions received up to February 11, the file has now gained approval from the Law & Judiciary Department as well as the Finance Department. The finalized policy for the conversion of these lands from Class-2 to Class-1 is set to be published by the end of March 31.”

Given that these lands were allocated to landless individuals, laborers, and ex-servicemen, the government is ensuring they do not encounter a financial burden.

“In line with the regulations and pricing established for the conversion of 'Nazul' lands, a nominal fee will be assessed to convert these lands into freehold status. This will offer significant financial relief to both ex-servicemen and marginalized groups,” the Minister clarified.