Revenue, Forest Departments to Conduct Joint Land Surveys in Telangana

Telangana Revenue, Housing and Information and Public Relations Minister Ponguleti Srinivas Reddy has directed officials to work towards a permanent resolution of boundary disputes between the Revenue and Forest departments, emphasising that differences between the two wings should not cause hardship to farmers and ordinary citizens. He stressed that coordinated efforts and scientific assessments were essential to settle long-pending land disputes and prevent fresh conflicts.

The Minister held a high-level review meeting with senior officials from the Revenue, Forest, and Survey and Settlement departments at the Dr BR Ambedkar Secretariat to discuss the issues surrounding disputed land boundaries. He called for closer coordination between the departments and instructed officials to conduct joint field surveys to establish the exact boundaries of government and forest lands.

Ponguleti underlined the importance of adopting modern technology and scientific surveying methods to ensure accuracy in identifying land boundaries. He said that disputes should not be addressed through temporary measures but resolved on the basis of reliable survey findings. A scientifically established boundary system would help prevent recurring disagreements and provide long-term clarity over land ownership and jurisdiction.

The Minister said the government was committed to improving the quality of land administration by ensuring transparency and accuracy in land records. He pointed out that comprehensive reforms were being undertaken through the Survey and Settlement and Land Records departments to strengthen the existing land management system.

Expressing concern over disputes that have remained unresolved for decades, he asked officials to give priority to such cases and expedite the process of settlement. He also proposed establishing coordination committees at district and mandal levels, comprising Revenue and Forest officials, to facilitate regular communication and faster decision-making.

The Minister appealed to farmers and local residents to extend their cooperation during joint surveys, stating that public participation would help officials complete the exercise effectively and avoid unnecessary complications.

Revenue Department Secretary Lokesh Kumar, Survey and Settlement Commissioner Rajiv Gandhi Hanumanthu, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests Vinay Kumar, and other senior officials participated in the review meeting.