Can Blockchain Spark off the Reincarnation of India’s Living Dead?

Abstract

A large number of studies have found a negative correlation between economic growth and corruption. Therefore, governments implement various anti-corruption measures particularly technology-based mechanisms. The government of India has launched various initiatives such as Digital India and Digital India Land Records Modernization Program (DILRMP) to modernize land records in the country and curb the corruption at various levels of land transactions. However, despite a push for reform through the DILRMP, India's current land title management system remains plagued with deficiencies. The current system of land records and property ownership is rife with corruption. DILRMP is heavily dependent on the government functionaries to act as a trusted third party for the verification of data and processing of deeds. This leaves a space for unscrupulous elements to trick the system and register a fraudulent deed, transfer land titles, and so on. This paper investigates the usefulness of an emerging technology called Blockchain and its integration with India's biometric identity program called Aadhaar for management of land records and property registration. This paper proceeds with relevant case studies, by identifying the requirements and outlining the concept and system architecture for such a solution. From our analysis, we conclude that the blockchain technology in association with Aadhaar would be an effective mechanism to bring in much-needed transparency in the government functionaries, eradicate fraud and corruption, and enhance socioeconomic benefits.