Boundary Settlement and its Effect on Property Rights and Local Governance

Boundary settlement being the formal administrative and legal demarcation of the land boundaries, they constitute a foundational mechanism for securing the property rights and effective local governance in the country. In the State of Tamil Nadu, it is governed by the Survey and Boundaries Act, 1923 where the process operates through the revenue administration to transform uncertain and disputed land boundaries into records and legally recognized demarcations. By analysing the statutory framework governing the boundaries, procedures followed and opting for an alternate dispute resolution system and also emphasizing on how the settlement contributes to strengthening of the property rights and preventing encroachments. This study analyses the statutory framework governing boundary settlement, the procedures involved, and the potential for adopting alternative dispute resolution mechanisms. It further emphasises the role of boundary settlement in strengthening property rights and preventing encroachments. The findings indicate that clear boundary demarcation significantly enhances jurisdictional clarity, improves revenue collection, and promotes inter-departmental coordination. However, the implementation process continues to face challenges arising from outdated cadastral records, inconsistent maintenance of survey markers, risks of corruption, and the limited enforceability of statutory provisions. Accordingly, the study highlights the necessity for institutional reforms, including the effective implementation of the Digital India Land Records Modernisation Programme, the adoption of drone-based surveying technologies, and the strengthening of enforcement mechanisms. When supported by such reforms, boundary settlement can play a critical role in reinforcing local governance and safeguarding land rights.