This is the book published on to the order of Maharaja Nripendra Narayan. A copy of this can be found at the central Library of Coochbehar. The original ROYAL FAMILY TREE is in the book starts from page number 601. Click on the picture or the link below the page.

Maharaja Nripendra Narayan's vision and the land reform system of Cooch Behar

Maharaja Nripendra Narayan (reigned 1863-1911) is known for his progressive outlook and modernization efforts in Cooch Behar State, which included reforms in the land administration and revenue system. 

1. Context and limitations of the existing system

Before Nripendra Narayan's rule, Cooch Behar lacked a well-organized and efficient land revenue system, leading to limitations and inefficiencies in land administration. The State officials recognized the need for improvements, prompting the introduction of the first land survey in 1868-70 for land settlement purposes. This initial step aimed at developing the State's land revenue potential. 

2. Introduction of the "Scientific Land Revenue Management"

One of the significant achievements during Maharaja Nripendra Narayan's reign was the introduction of a more structured and "scientific land revenue management" system. This initiative was influenced by the British colonial ideology that had been gradually permeating different aspects of the State administration since Cooch Behar became a tributary to the British East India Company in 1773. This new system, along with the adoption of a budget system, represented a shift towards more modern and systematic governance in the State. 

3. Impact and consequences of the land reform

While the introduction of the new land revenue management system under Maharaja Nripendra Narayan was lauded for its modernity and potential for development, it also had a complex and dual impact on the environment, ecology, and the land-based society of Cooch Behar. 

• Development and modernization: The system aimed to regularize and optimize land revenue collection, which was essential for the State's financial stability and funding various developmental projects such as railways and municipal works.

• Environmental and ecological degradation: Some scholars suggest that the new system led to ecological and environmental degradation, possibly due to increased pressure on land for revenue generation or changes in land use patterns.

• Impact on the land-based society: The reforms also had a significant impact on the socio-economic structure of the land-based society. While it aimed at creating a more structured system, it might have disrupted traditional land tenure practices and relationships, leading to socio-economic changes that could be interpreted as both development and degradation. 

In essence, Maharaja Nripendra Narayan's vision led to the modernization of the land revenue system in Cooch Behar, which had a multifaceted impact on the State's economy, administration, environment, and society.