Karnataka Reforms Jamma Bane Land Records Through Land Revenue Amendment

Kodagu’s Traditional Land System Brought Under Modern Revenue Framework

The Government of Karnataka has undertaken a significant legislative reform to modernise the centuries-old land record system of the Coorg region, officially known as Kodagu . The amendment seeks to resolve long-standing documentation challenges associated with Jamma Bane land holdings, which are integral to the cultural identity and economic sustenance of the indigenous Kodava community.

Assent and Legislative Backing

The Karnataka Land Revenue (Second Amendment) Act, 2025 came into force following the assent of Thawarchand Gehlot on January 7, 2026. The amendment aims to harmonise Kodagu’s land records with the Karnataka Land Revenue Act, 1964, while integrating them into the state’s digitised land management system under the Bhoomi Project. This move marks a transition from region-specific legacy practices to a uniform statutory framework.

Historical Background of Jamma Bane Lands

Jamma Bane lands are hereditary holdings exclusive to Kodagu district. These lands were granted between the 17th and 19th centuries by Coorg rulers and later by the British administration as a reward for military service. The land parcels typically include paddy-growing lowlands and forested uplands, many of which were gradually converted into coffee plantations. A distinctive feature of this system was the retention of the original pattedar’s name in land records, irrespective of generational transfers.

Challenges Arising From Outdated Records

The continuation of ancestral names in official records led to persistent legal and administrative difficulties. Landowners faced hurdles in mutation, inheritance, sale transactions, and securing bank credit. Although Kodagu was earlier governed by the Coorg Land Revenue and Regulations Act, 1899, certain practices continued informally even after the Karnataka Land Revenue Act, 1964 became applicable. Ownership rights of the Kodava community were repeatedly upheld by the Karnataka High Court , including in the landmark Chekkera Poovaiah vs State of Karnataka case.

Key Changes Under the Amendment

The amendment authorises Tahsildars in Kodagu to rectify inconsistencies in the Record of Rights after conducting a due and transparent enquiry. A new subsection has been inserted into Section 127 of the Karnataka Land Revenue Act, 1964, permitting correction or deletion of entries that were improperly transferred or recorded in earlier decades. The law also provides an appellate mechanism, ensuring procedural fairness while enabling rightful successors to secure legally valid land titles.

Important Facts for Exams

• Jamma Bane lands are hereditary holdings unique to Kodagu district.

• They were historically granted for military service by Coorg rulers and the British.

• The Karnataka Land Revenue (Second Amendment) Act, 2025 addresses legacy record issues.

• Tahsildars are empowered to correct land records after due enquiry.

• The reform aligns Kodagu’s land records with the Karnataka Land Revenue Act, 1964 and the Bhoomi Project.