Goa Government Introduces Online System for Conversion Sanads
The state government of Goa has taken a significant step towards digital governance by deciding to issue conversion sanads online, thereby eliminating the necessity for citizens to physically visit revenue offices. This move is part of a broader effort to streamline administrative processes and enhance convenience for applicants.
Draft Rules Pave the Way for Digital Transformation
To facilitate this online process, the state government has drafted the Goa Land Revenue (Conversion of Use of Land and Non-Agricultural Assessment) (Amendment) Rules, 2025. These rules are designed to complete the digital issuance of sanads, marking a departure from the current hybrid system where applications are submitted online but documents are issued physically.
Currently, applicants are required to submit their documents for conversion sanads through online portals. However, at the final stage of issuance, the process has been physical, necessitating visits to revenue offices to collect the documents. The new amendment aims to bridge this gap by enabling a fully online workflow from submission to receipt.
Public Consultation and Feedback Period
Before finalising the draft rules, the state government has invited objections and suggestions from the public. This participatory approach ensures that stakeholder inputs are considered in the rule-making process.
Under Secretary (Revenue) Vrushika Kauthankar stated, "All objections and/or suggestions to the said draft rules may be forwarded to the state secretary (revenue) before the expiry of the said period of 15 days so that they may be taken into consideration at the time of finalisation of the said draft rules." This 15-day window allows for comprehensive public engagement.
Reduced Time Frame for Sanad Issuance
In a related development, the Goa government amended the Goa Land Revenue Code, 1968 during the winter session of the legislative assembly. This amendment reduces the time frame for issuing conversion sanads from the existing 60 days to 45 days, aiming to expedite the process for applicants.
A key component of this initiative is the rationalisation of the time taken for granting conversion sanads. By leveraging digital tools, the government seeks to minimise delays and improve efficiency in land revenue administration.
Legal Framework and Implementation
In Goa, conversion sanads are issued under the provisions of the Goa Land Revenue Code, 1968, read with the conversion of use of land and non-agricultural assessment. The new online system will operate within this legal framework, ensuring compliance while modernising the process.
This digital shift is expected to benefit numerous applicants by saving time and reducing the hassle associated with physical visits. It aligns with broader trends in e-governance and reflects the state's commitment to leveraging technology for public service delivery.
