This, authorities say, will help regulate the rampant sale of very small extents of agricultural lands – Reported by Bharath Joshi / DHNS / 23-12-2021

Karnataka has ordered that no agricultural land measuring less than 5 guntas, or 5,445 sq ft, can get a
survey number. 

This means such small parcels can neither be bought nor sold. This, authorities say, will help regulate the
rampant sale of very small extents of agricultural lands around urban areas that end up becoming residential plots or “revenue sites”.

This is a serious issue in Bengaluru and other cities where small residential layouts have come up on small
agricultural lands without the required land-use conversion — from agricultural to non-agricultural purposes.

In his order, Commissioner for Survey, Settlement & Land Records Munish Moudgil has fixed the minimum extent at five guntas in all districts except Kodagu, Dakshina Kannada, Udupi and Uttara Kannada where it is three guntas. 

The minimum extent will be applicable prospectively; it will not impact existing survey numbers. Also, inherited lands that are smaller than 5 guntas will be allowed. Plus, existing titleholders for lands measuring less than the minimum extent will remain valid.

The order has been issued as per Section 108 of the Karnataka Land Revenue Act, 1964, which mandates that no survey number should be created below a minimum limit fixed from time to time.