Statewide Property Regularisation Launched In Karnataka
The Karnataka government has announced a statewide expansion of the B-to-A khata conversion scheme, previously limited to Bengaluru, aiming to formalise unauthorised urban properties and enhance municipal revenue streams. The initiative is expected to cover roughly 10 lakh properties, including vacant plots in unplanned layouts, across the state’s urban centres.
The B-to-A khata conversion allows property owners to bring previously unauthorised constructions into the formal regulatory framework, enabling them to obtain construction permits, occupancy certificates, and access to municipal services. Experts note that formalising land records can strengthen urban governance, improve tax compliance, and reduce disputes over property ownership—a persistent challenge in rapidly growing cities like Bengaluru and Mysuru.Under the programme, property owners in Karnataka must meet specific eligibility criteria. Plots must generally measure no more than 30x40ft, have road connectivity, and conform to local masterplans. Properties on private roads must have declared public access before conversion. Agricultural land outside masterplan areas must be reclassified for non-agricultural use prior to applying. Conversion fees, based on a percentage of the state-determined guidance value, will be defined for properties outside Bengaluru, following the model implemented in Greater Bengaluru last November.
Urban policy analysts highlight that the scheme is more than an administrative exercise—it signals a broader push toward regularised, inclusive urban development. “Bringing unauthorised properties into the official fold allows municipalities to plan infrastructure, service provision, and urban expansion more effectively,” said a senior urban development advisor. By formalising property titles, the state can potentially incentivise responsible development while safeguarding citizen investments in housing and small-scale commercial structures.Economic implications are also significant. Legalising previously unauthorised plots can stabilise real estate markets by reducing speculative transactions and providing buyers and investors with clear titles. Additionally, increased property tax collection can fund local infrastructure projects, including roads, water supply, and public amenities, enhancing the livability and resilience of urban areas.
Nevertheless, successful implementation will require clear communication, streamlined approval processes, and effective coordination with local authorities. Observers caution that delays, ambiguous guidelines, or gaps in record verification could limit uptake, undermining the intended regulatory and fiscal benefits. If executed efficiently, the scheme has the potential to transform Karnataka’s urban land governance, creating a more transparent, equitable, and financially sustainable environment for residents and municipalities alike.
