Overview The Director of Survey and Settlement has issued instructions to Collectors and Assistant Directors of Survey and Land Records to cease manual processing of note files and manual approval of sub-division statements. This directive emphasizes the adoption of electronic processing for online patta transfer applications across rural, urban, and natham formats. Key Developments Electronic Processing: All applications for Online Patta Transfer (OPT) involving sub-division (OPT-ISD) and not involving sub-division (NISD) must be processed electronically using user logins. Manual Processes Discontinued: Manual note files, sketches, and sub-division statements are no longer required from Survey and Revenue officials during OPT application processing. Service Integration: Since December 2025 , Collabland and Tamil Nilam services have been integrated across Tamil Nadu, except in Chengalpattu, Kancheepuram, Ranipet, and Tiruvallur districts where only one taluk each has been integrated. Operational Status: Online patta transfer is operational across Tamil Nadu in rural, urban, and natham formats, with electronic processing and user logins. Role Allocation: Village Administrative Officers and Zonal Deputy Tahsildars handle cases not involving sub-division, while firka surveyors, Tahsildars, and other officials process applications involving sub-division. Historical Context In October 2015 , the Director of Survey and Settlement directed that the firka surveyor conduct fieldwork and prepare the sub-division sketch and draft sub-division statement within the sketch itself. This move aimed to eliminate the need for manual applications, note files, and Tahsildar approvals, as these processes were to be done electronically. UPSC Relevance This initiative is relevant to GS2 (Governance) and GS3 (Economy) . It highlights the government's efforts to modernize land administration through digitization, which can improve transparency, reduce corruption, and enhance efficiency in land transactions. The integration of services like Collabland and Tamil Nilam demonstrates a focus on e-governance and citizen-centric service delivery. Important Facts Online Patta Transfer (OPT): System for transferring land ownership online. Collabland and Tamil Nilam: Integrated services for rural land records. Firka Surveyor: Responsible for field work and sub-division sketch. Tahsildar: Approves sub-division statements. Natham Land: Land designated for residential purposes in villages.