In an era where digital transformation is reshaping governance, Bangladesh has taken significant strides in modernizing its land administration system. A cornerstone of this initiative is eKhatian, a platform designed to provide citizens with easy access to land records and related services.
Bridging the Information Gap
Traditionally, accessing land records in Bangladesh involved navigating bureaucratic processes, often leading to delays and opportunities for corruption. eKhatian addresses these issues by offering a centralized platform where users can search for Khatian (Record of Rights) and Mouza maps using specific details like district, upazila, mouza, and khatian number. This accessibility empowers citizens to obtain accurate information without intermediaries.
Integration with Other Digital Services
eKhatian is part of a broader ecosystem of digital land services. For instance, the government has introduced a hotline (16122) that allows citizens to apply for Khatian or Mouza maps and pay land development taxes through digital financial services such as Nagad, Rocket, Bikash, and Upay . Additionally, platforms like ePorcha provide similar services, further enhancing accessibility.
The integration of these services aims to create a seamless experience for users, reducing the need for physical visits to land offices and minimizing the potential for corruption.
Challenges and Considerations
While eKhatian offers numerous benefits, its effectiveness is contingent on several factors. A significant challenge is the existence of multiple versions of land records (CS, SA, RS, BRS), each with potential discrepancies. This complexity can lead to confusion among users and necessitates careful verification.
Moreover, the limited reach of digital land-registration services, currently available in only a few upazilas, restricts the platform's impact . To address this, the government must invest in expanding digital infrastructure and training personnel to manage and maintain these systems effectively.
Conclusion
eKhatian represents a significant advancement in making land services more accessible and transparent for citizens in Bangladesh. By digitizing land records and integrating with other services, it empowers users to take control of their land-related affairs. However, to fully realize its potential, challenges related to data consistency, coverage, and administrative capacity must be addressed. With continued commitment and investment, eKhatian can play a pivotal role in transforming land administration in the country.
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