LAND SURVEY FEES HIKED IN URBAN AND RURAL AREAS

LAND SURVEY FEES HIKED IN URBAN AND RURAL AREAS

10-JUNE-ENG 1

RAJIV NAYAN AGRAWAL

PATNA-----------------------The Department of Revenue and Land Reforms, Government of Bihar, has prepared a proposal to increase land survey (measurement) fees to ensure the speedy and transparent resolution of land-related matters in the state. A press note issued by the department states that raising the current survey fees has become necessary to provide better services to landholders and to strengthen revenue collection.

According to the department, land surveys for private land or plots are currently conducted by Circle Offices upon receipt of online applications—subject to a fee—under Rule 23 of the Bihar Tenancy Rules, 1885. The decision to revise these fees has been taken in view of the state's growing requirements and the need to boost revenue.

Under the proposed new rates, the fee for surveying private land located in Municipal Corporation, Municipal Council, and Nagar Panchayat areas will be set at ₹2,000 per *Khesra* (plot/survey number), with a maximum cap of ₹8,000. In rural areas, the fee will be ₹1,000 per *Khesra*, with a maximum cap of ₹4,000.

Additionally, for 'Tatkal' (expedited/immediate) survey services, the proposed fee is ₹4,000 per *Khesra* in urban areas, with a maximum cap of ₹16,000. In rural areas, the fee for expedited surveys would be ₹2,000 per *Khesra*, with a maximum cap of ₹8,000.

The Department of Revenue and Land Reforms states that the implementation of the revised fee structure will bring greater transparency and efficiency to the delivery of land survey services.

The department has clarified that the speedy disposal of land-related matters is among the government's top priorities. This information was conveyed in a press note issued by the department's Secretary, Jai Singh.