Navigating the Online Patta Name Change Process: 18 Essential Steps

Introduction
In recent years, the process of changing a patta (land title) name has transitioned from traditional methods to an online system. While this shift aims to streamline and simplify the application process, it has introduced new challenges and complexities. This guide outlines the essential steps to successfully navigate the online patta name change process, ensuring that all necessary records are updated accurately. Whether you are a landowner or a stakeholder, understanding these steps is crucial to avoid common pitfalls and ensure a smooth transition.

18 Essential Steps

1. Transition to Online Applications: Previously, patta applications required
   submitting a stack of documents, including copies of necessary papers and an up-to-
   date Encumbrance Certificate (EC). These were tied together and handed over to the
   Village Administrative Officer (VAO). Now, the application process has moved
   online.
2. Application Fees: Previously, no fee was required for patta applications. However,
   the online process now imposes a fee of Rs. 50 (with some places charging more),
   turning it into a revenue stream for the revenue department.
3. Online Application Challenges: Applicants must now queue up at cooperative
   societies, taluk offices, and service centers. Issues like power cuts, server downtime,
   and computer malfunctions are common, forcing villagers to travel multiple times,
   often covering long distances and sacrificing workdays.
4. Immediate Action Required: VAOs and surveyors have been instructed not to
   keep online patta name change applications pending. If follow-up is delayed or
   missing, applications may be rejected online, citing reasons such as missing linked
   documents.
5. No Immediate Result: Unlike booking a bus ticket or withdrawing cash from an
   ATM, submitting a patta application online does not yield immediate results. The
   online system only handles the application submission; the rest of the process requires
   traditional follow-up at the taluk office.
6. Necessary Follow-Up: Applicants must take the online application receipt and
   relevant documents to the VAO or surveyor for direct follow-up. All required
   paperwork must be moved through various desks, from the VAO to the surveyor, then
   to the Land Record Draft (LRD) officer, the chief surveyor, and finally, the tahsildar.
7. Application Processing: Patta applications are divided into two types: those for
   “full survey” lands and “sub-division” lands. Applications for full survey lands are
   directed to the VAO, while sub-division applications go to the surveyor.
8. Full Survey Patta Changes: Applications for full survey land name changes are
   managed by the VAO, who processes them without significant issues.
9. Sub-Division Applications: These are handled by the surveyor, then passed to the
   LRD officer, the chief surveyor, and ultimately signed by the tahsildar. This process is
   referred to as handling the “8A document.”
10. Understanding the 8A Document: The 8A document is a crucial part of the
    survey law, equivalent to the stage before a patta document hatches. Once the
    tahsildar signs it, the patta is updated online.
11. Final Steps: After the patta is updated online, it’s essential to check if the changes
    are reflected in the Field Measurement Book (FMB) and the “A register” (village
    accounts).
12. Old Process Involvement: Previously, the VAO played a key role in patta name
    changes. Now, full survey patta changes go to the VAO, while sub-division
    applications go to the surveyor, leading villagers to the taluk office to meet the
    surveyor directly.
13. Surveyor Involvement: Surveyors rarely visit the VAO office, which means
    updates in village records, FMBs, and other documents may not occur without direct
    requests from villagers.
14. Ensuring Accuracy: Villagers must ensure that surveyors update FMBs and
    village records accurately. In some villages, these records are available online, and it’s
    crucial to verify if sub-division entries are updated.
15. VAO-Surveyor Coordination: Since surveyors handle patta name changes,
    VAOs may be unaware of these changes. This can result in discrepancies between
    online and village records.
16. Additional Procedures: For activities like digging wells or taking agricultural
    loans, entries in the FMB and village records are necessary. If not updated, disputes
    with the VAO may arise.
17. Comprehensive Updates: For various official purposes, it’s essential to have the
    patta name change reflected in all relevant records. VAOs may refuse cooperation if
    these records are not updated.
18. Ensure that all related documents—FMB, A register, and chit—are
    updated alongside the online patta application. This requires continuous follow-up
    with the surveyor and VAO to avoid discrepancies and ensure the process is complete.

Conclusion
Changing a patta name online may appear straightforward, but the reality involves a series of meticulous steps and continuous follow-up. By understanding these 18 essential steps, applicants can effectively manage the process, ensuring that all necessary records are accurately updated. This diligence is crucial to avoid future complications and to ensure that the patta change is recognized both online and in all relevant village records.

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