Digital Crackdown: Nepal Launches High-Tech System to Expose Fake Squatters Nationwide

The Ministry of Land Management, Cooperatives, and Poverty Alleviation has begun verifying the status of landless squatters using the Land Records Information Management System (LRIMS). This system is designed to check government records to determine if individuals claiming to be landless own property anywhere else in the country. According to the ministry, this verification process is being carried out transparently and efficiently through electronic means and established protocols. Currently, the ministry is processing the list of squatters within the Kathmandu Valley, provided by the Ministry of Urban Development. This identification process will gradually be implemented across the entire country. The ministry oversees 110 land revenue offices and 21 land reform and revenue offices involved in this initiative. Furthermore, the ministry has communicated with all 753 local levels to gather information regarding the staff, technical manpower, and resources needed to provide land-related services at the local level. Based on priority, the ministry will provide training and skill development programs to these local bodies before transferring the relevant responsibilities to them.