The Bihar government has decided to install Global Positioning System (GPS) devices in the vehicles and motorcycles used by revenue officials to ensure greater transparency and accountability in the functioning of the Land and Revenue Department at the grassroots level.
Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Kumar Sinha, who also holds the Revenue and Land Reforms portfolio, issued the directive while addressing a Janata Darbar in Saharsa on Wednesday.
Expressing displeasure over the functioning of departmental staff, Sinha said equipping all revenue officials’ vehicles with GPS would allow their movements and work to be tracked and monitored.
Referring to alleged manipulation of land records, the minister said efforts are underway to rectify discrepancies in record rooms and restore the system.
He added that the government is considering taking assistance from retired officials and experienced local residents to streamline operations.
Sinha acknowledged that a majority of grievances raised during the Janata Darbar stemmed from land disputes, including issues related to mutation, land grabbing and illegal sale of government land. He directed the police to identify land mafia operating in the district.
The initiative has been welcomed by residents and social activists, who said it could improve accountability and provide long-awaited relief to people facing prolonged land disputes.
