In a significant push for e-governance and transparency, the Maharashtra Revenue Department has officially granted legal validity to crucial digital land records. This move, formalized through a government resolution on Thursday, December 4, 2025, aims to simplify property documentation for millions of citizens across the state.
What Are the Key Digital Documents?
The resolution covers three primary land records that are now legally valid in their digital format. These are essential for verifying ownership, securing loans, and conducting property transactions.
The 7/12 extract is a cornerstone document, especially in rural Maharashtra. It merges information from Form VII (Record of Rights) and Form XII (agricultural details). This document provides a comprehensive snapshot of a land parcel, including:
- Owner's name and details
- Land area and survey number
- Type of cultivation and crop details
- Any outstanding liabilities
The 8A extract, commonly known as a 'khata,' summarizes a landowner's rights and focuses on revenue information. It details tax liabilities, payment history, and is vital for completing sales or loan processes. It often works in tandem with the 7/12 extract.
The Ferfar is the official mutation register. It legally records all changes or transfers in land ownership over time. Maintaining an updated Ferfar is critical for establishing a clear chain of title.
Enhanced Security and Easy Access
The digitally signed records come with robust security features to prevent forgery and ensure authenticity. Each document will be secured with a digital signature of the land revenue officer, a unique QR code, and a 16-digit verification number.
A major convenience for citizens is that these digitally signed documents will not require the physical stamp or signature of a talathi. They can be accessed and downloaded online through the official Mahabhumi portal by paying a nominal fee of Rs 15.
Citizens have two avenues to apply for these records or request corrections:
- Online: Via the Mahabhumi portal at http://digitalbaliraja.mahabhumi.gov.in.
- Offline: By applying directly at the office of the village revenue officer or the tehsildar.
A Step Towards Transparent Governance
Maharashtra Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule emphasized that this initiative underscores the government's commitment to "transparency, speed, and ease of business." By digitizing and legally validating these critical records, the government aims to reduce bureaucratic delays, minimize disputes arising from fraudulent paper documents, and empower citizens with easy, anytime access to their land information.
This reform is expected to significantly streamline property-related transactions, making processes for buying, selling, or using land as collateral for loans much faster and more reliable. It marks a pivotal step in Maharashtra's journey toward complete digital governance in the revenue sector.
