Land disputes are among the most common cases in Indian courts. To make land records clear and reliable, the government is giving every land parcel a unique number called ULPIN, also known as Bhu-Aadhaar. Here is a simple guide.
What is ULPIN
ULPIN stands for Unique Land Parcel Identification Number. It is a 14 character alphanumeric ID given to each land parcel. It is generated using the geographic coordinates of the corners of the parcel, so it is linked to the exact location on the ground.
Who runs it
ULPIN is part of the Digital India Land Records Modernization Programme (DILRMP), run by the Department of Land Resources under the Ministry of Rural Development. States, which manage land records, assign the numbers. The scheme was rolled out from 2021.
Budget push
In the Union Budget for 2024 to 2025, the government announced that all rural land would be given Bhu-Aadhaar, or ULPIN, and cadastral maps would be digitised within three years, with support to states.
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What the number contains
The ID is based on the state code, district, sub district, village and a unique parcel number, along with location data. Each parcel keeps its own ID, so it can be tracked even when ownership changes.
Benefits
- **One ID for one parcel:** removes confusion over survey numbers that vary across records.
- **Fewer disputes and frauds:** it is harder to sell the same land twice or forge records.
- **Easier loans:** banks can verify land quickly for crop loans and mortgages.
- **Better planning:** governments can plan schemes, compensation and disaster relief more accurately.
- **Links across departments:** land records, registration and courts can share one reference.
How to check your land records
- Visit your state’s official land records portal, such as Bhulekh or a similar site.
- Search by district, tehsil, village and survey or khasra number.
- View the record of rights and, where available, the ULPIN for your parcel.
Some states print the ULPIN on land record copies.
Tips for owners
- Check that your name, area and boundaries are correct.
- Report errors to the tehsil or revenue office.
- Keep certified copies of key documents.
Bottom line
ULPIN gives every piece of land a single digital identity. Over time, it should make buying, selling and borrowing against land faster and safer.
Source / स्रोत: Department of Land Resources, Ministry of Rural Development, Digital India Land Records Modernization Programme, Press Information Bureau
