Who is a Patwari?

Patwari is the village account or the administrative officer in a village who is responsible for maintaining land records of the village.

India’s approximately 70% population still lives in rural areas and around 43% of India’s workforce is employed in agriculture. Therefore, the job of a Patwari in India is crucial.

The term Patwari is mostly used in North and Central India. There are different words used in different states. For example, the term Talati is used in Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Karnataka.

What is the role of a Patwari?

The duties of a Patwari include recording all the crops grown in the village, to keep updated records of all the lands and their ownership. The Patwari also collects land revenues, irrigation dues, and other taxes. The Patwari also has to keep records of all the details related to crops, harvest, and land rights for statistical purposes. The Patwari is in-charge of measuring the land and keeps details like maps of all the plots. The Patwari is also involved in collecting data for census.

Patwaris play an important role in village disputes related to lands. Farmers can approach the Patwari to clear confusions and disputes between different plots.

Who introduced the Patwari system in India?

The Patwar system was introduced in the Indian subcontinent by Sher Shah Suri. The system was further enhanced by Akbar during his rule. The British made some minor adjustments in the system but maintained the system. In 1814, a legislation was enacted which made it mandatory for every village in India to maintain a Patwari as an official agent of the government.

Patwaris play an important role in the village by keeping track of all the lands and crops grown. They are also the government representative in the village which is why they wield significant power and influence in a rural setup.