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The Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) is set to launch an online portal, www.shreesampatti.in, to streamline property transactions related to temple lands, covering over 60,426 acres across Odisha and other states. The portal will allow users to submit applications, check status, and reduce manual paperwork under the Uniform Policy-2003. Law Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan stated that the initiative aims to resolve illegal land occupations and generate INR 8,000-10,000 crore for temple initiatives. Alongside digitizing land records, SJTA is enhancing online donation systems and plans to modernize temple administration through various digital initiatives.
The Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) is taking significant steps to streamline land-related processes for the public. In an effort to simplify how individuals manage property issues related to temple lands, SJTA plans to launch an online platform.
Currently, people wishing to sell or transfer property on temple lands must submit manual applications, which can be a lengthy and cumbersome process. This system, governed by the government's Uniform Policy-2003, has faced criticism for its inefficiency. SJTA's chief administrator, Arabinda Padhee, announced the upcoming website, tentatively named www.shreesampatti.in. This portal will allow users to submit applications electronically, check their status, and avoid the need to visit the SJTA office in person.
The temple administration oversees a vast area of land, totaling 60,426 acres across 24 districts in Odisha and an additional 395 acres in states like West Bengal, Maharashtra, and Madhya Pradesh. Many individuals currently occupy these lands without formal ownership records, complicating their ability to claim property rights. The new online system aims to address this issue by providing a more accessible way for occupants to engage with the temple administration.
Law Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan emphasised the importance of this initiative during a recent statement. He noted that the new managing committee will ensure that land settlements proceed according to the 2003 Uniform Policy. The minister acknowledged the prevalence of illegal land occupations, particularly in Puri, and indicated that the SJTA would offer smaller land parcels at reduced rates while larger encroachments would be sold at market value. This approach aims to create a fund estimated at INR 8,000 to INR 10,000 crore for the temple, which could support various religious and community initiatives.
In addition to the land settlement portal, the SJTA is also enhancing its online donation platform. Future plans include establishing an information center near the beach and digitizing all temple records and books. These improvements are part of a broader strategy to modernize temple administration and improve public engagement.
The move towards digital solutions reflects a growing trend among religious institutions to adapt to technological advancements. By making processes more efficient and transparent, the SJTA aims to foster a stronger connection with devotees and the wider community. This initiative not only seeks to resolve land issues but also enhances the overall experience for those interacting with the temple, ensuring that the legacy of Lord Jagannath continues to thrive in the modern age.