Odisha Introduces Digital System to Manage Jagannath Temple Land

The Odisha government has introduced the Shree Jagannath Temple Land Management Rules-2026, replacing the earlier policies of 2003 and 2019. The new rules aim to make the management of temple land more transparent, efficient and secure.

Under the new system, all land-related applications will be processed online, with verification, approval and valuation following a defined procedure. The District Collector-led DLSC will oversee the process, while the SJMBS committee will conduct field verification. After verification, the SJTMC will issue the NOC.
For valuation, the higher of the Benchmark Value (BMV) and Applicable Land Sale Statistics (ALSS) will be considered. Separate provisions cover servitor, mutt and commercial land. Commercial land up to 0.250 decimal will be valued at four times the applicable rate, while eligible mutts operating as places of worship for 30 years will receive special concessions.

The government will also conduct GIS-based digital mapping of all temple land. A public dashboard linked with Bhulekh and Bhu Naksha will provide land-related information and help track holdings and prevent encroachment.