Data Bank
Data Bank
The Data Bank is an official record prepared under the Kerala Conservation of Paddy Land and Wetland Act, 2008, for the protection and conservation of paddy lands and wetlands in Kerala. Its main objectives are to ensure food security, protect groundwater levels, maintain ecological balance, reduce the risk of flooding, and protect the agricultural sector.
Basic Information and Key Objectives
What is the Data Bank?
Official Record
The Data Bank is the official list, including survey numbers, of the actual paddy lands and wetlands that existed in the State when the Kerala Conservation of Paddy Land and Wetland Act came into force on August 12, 2008. The document is prepared after verification using ISRO satellite imagery, revenue records, field inspections, and the Local Level Monitoring Committee (LLMC) under the leadership of the Agricultural Officer. The Data Bank is available for verification at Krishi Bhavan, Village Office, Grama Panchayat, and the concerned Revenue Offices.
Prevent Illegal Land Reclamation
Legal Protection
Land recorded in the Data Bank as "Paddy Land" or "Wetland" is protected land under the relevant law. Reclaiming such land or changing its use without permission from the Agricultural Officer, Revenue Authorities, or other legally authorised authorities is unlawful. If violations are detected, the concerned authorities have the power to take legal action.
Environmental Protection
Sustainable Development
The Data Bank primarily helps protect natural water storage areas, streams, paddy fields, and wetlands. Other key objectives include maintaining groundwater levels, reducing flood risks, protecting biodiversity, maintaining ecological balance, and increasing agricultural production. The Data Bank is an important government initiative for protecting natural resources for future generations and ensuring food security.
Land Conversion Procedures and Special Exemptions
📑 Form 5 Application
Removal from Data Bank
If the land had already been reclaimed before August 12, 2008, or was already in a condition unsuitable for cultivation, an application may be submitted to the concerned Revenue Divisional Officer (RDO) through Form 5 for removal of the land from the Data Bank. After receiving the application, satellite images from 2008 will be examined through the Kerala State Remote Sensing and Environment Centre (KSREC), and the necessary reports will be collected. If the verification establishes that the land is eligible for removal under the law, the competent authority will issue an order for its removal from the Data Bank.
📑 Form 6 Application
Change in Revenue Records (BTR)
Even after the land is removed from the Data Bank, a separate Form 6 application must be submitted to change the land classification in the Basic Tax Register (BTR). Based on the application, the concerned Revenue Authorities will conduct verification and take steps to change the classification recorded as "Nilam" to "Purayidam" or another legally permissible land category. In certain circumstances, a fee may be collected based on the fair value of the land. Government exemptions announced for constructing one's own house on land measuring less than 25 cents may be applicable in certain circumstances.
🏠 House Construction Exemptions
Special Permission
Special exemptions are available under the law for individuals who do not own any other residentially suitable land to construct a dwelling house. Within Grama Panchayat limits, applications may legally be submitted for up to 10 cents, and within Municipality/Corporation limits, up to 5 cents. A recommendation from the Local Level Monitoring Committee (LLMC) and approval from the District Level Authorised Committee (DLAC) are required.
Important Notices
📌 Public Notice
All applications related to the Data Bank shall be subject to the Kerala Conservation of Paddy Land and Wetland Act, the relevant Rules, Government Orders, and court judgments.
Before submitting an application, verify the required information with the concerned Krishi Bhavan, Village Office, and Revenue Divisional Office (RDO).
📄 Required Documents
- Land Ownership Document
- Possession Certificate
- Tax Receipt
- Survey Number Details
- Application Form
- Other Supporting Documents
⚖ Legal Note
The information provided on this page is for general guidance only. Final decisions will be based on the applicable laws, Government Orders, and verification by the competent authorities.
Copies of the final Data Bank notifications published under the Paddy Land and Wetland Conservation Act are provided below.
Ananganadi Grama Panchayat - Data Bank.
