Explained: What is Jamma Land & Why Kodagu MLA A.S. Ponnanna wants Karnataka to Amend Land Laws

A.S. Ponnanna, the MLA of Virajpet and Legal Advisor to the Chief Minister, met Karnataka Revenue Minister Krishna Byre Gowda to press for amendments to key laws concerning the Revenue Department.

Many farmers in Kodagu lack RTCs for their hereditary Bane land, affecting access to loans and government schemes.

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In a recent development that could have far-reaching implications for thousands of landholders in Kodagu, A.S. Ponnanna, the MLA of Virajpet and Legal Advisor to the Chief Minister, met Karnataka Revenue Minister Krishna Byre Gowda to press for amendments to key laws concerning the Revenue Department. Central to his appeal was the demand to amend the Karnataka Land Revenue Act, 1964, to resolve issues faced by Jamma landholders, especially relating to the assessment of Jamma land, lack of land records (Pahani), and the challenges faced by patta holders. The Minister has reportedly responded positively and assured that these issues would be addressed during the upcoming monsoon session of the Karnataka Legislative Assembly.

What is Jamma land?

Jamma land is a unique hereditary land tenure system specific to Kodagu district. The term “Jamma” is derived from the Sanskrit word Janma, which means “by birth.” The British administrator Sir J.B. Lyall, who studied land tenures in Coorg, noted that Jamma land emerged from a system where land was granted in return for military service. Under this arrangement, landholders were required to pay only half the regular revenue, as their primary duty was to defend the kingdom during times of conflict.

Who granted Jamma land and to whom?

Most Jamma land was granted between 1600 and 1834 by the Coorg Rajas through official documents called sannads. A smaller number of grants continued under British rule until 1895. These grants were conferred upon several local communities including Kodavas, Amma-Kodavas, Heggades, Airis, Koyavas, Gaudas, and Moplas. Those who held Jamma lands were not only responsible for farming but were also expected to act as the kingdom’s defenders in the event of internal disturbances or external threats. These landholders often served as guardians of the royal treasury and military aides.

Is Jamma land officially recorded in government documents?

Reliable records of Jamma land were first compiled between 1812 and 1824 during the reigns of Lingaraja and Chikkaveeraraja. Prior to this, records were inconsistent or non-existent. Jamma land typically includes both wetlands, which were used for paddy cultivation, and adjoining highlands known as Bane land. While wetlands were assessed for tax, Bane land was originally tax-exempt and used primarily for grazing cattle. Over time, much of this Bane land was converted into coffee estates, which are now central to Kodagu’s agricultural economy.

What problems are Jamma landholders facing today?

Despite cultivating the land for generations, many Jamma landholders do not possess proper land records, especially RTCs (Record of Rights, Tenancy and Crops), also known as Pahani. This has resulted in severe practical and legal challenges. Without RTCs, farmers are unable to access bank loans, apply for subsidies, or make legal claims to their land. Land transactions become complex and are often subject to disputes. A.S. Ponnanna emphasised that a comprehensive survey is urgently needed to issue proper land records to all legitimate landholders.

Why is Jamma land still in the name of the Pattedara (head of the clan)?

Traditionally, Jamma land was held collectively by the clan, and land records were maintained in the name of a single person, usually the eldest male or Pattedara. However, other family members also held cultivation rights and lived in ainemanes (ancestral homes) on the property. This communal system acted as a strong social security net, with every clan member entitled to reside on and work the land. In the absence of individual RTCs, other family members are now unable to prove their legal rights over land they’ve cultivated for generations.

How many people are affected and what is being done now?

An estimated 25,000 people in Kodagu depend on Jamma Bane land for agriculture and livelihood. Due to the lack of clarity in legal ownership, many of them are left without access to basic financial and legal services. Recognising the urgency of the matter, A.S. Ponnanna has strongly advocated for changes in the law and administrative reforms. Following his appeal, the Revenue Minister instructed officials to carry out a land survey without delay, in order to issue RTCs to all deserving individuals.

What lies ahead?

With the monsoon session of the Karnataka Assembly approaching, all eyes are now on whether the State government will bring forward the necessary amendments to the Karnataka Land Revenue Act. If passed, the changes could finally bring legal recognition, security, and stability to thousands of Jamma landholders in Kodagu restoring both their rightful ownership and the historic dignity attached to their land.

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