India’s National Geospatial Policy 2022 Spurs Inclusive Development and Innovation

New Delhi:  In a significant stride towards inclusive development and technological innovation, the Indian government is actively implementing the National Geospatial Policy 2022 (NGP), marking a paradigm shift in geospatial data access and usage. Launched in 2022, the NGP is spearheaded by the Department of Science and Technology (DST), with a commitment to liberalize geospatial data access and foster an Atmanirbhar Bharat, empowering local companies in the geospatial domain.

The NGP has played a pivotal role in expanding access and usage of spatial data, rapidly improving citizen services, and extending its reach to even the remotest corners of the country. Professor Abhay Karandikar, Secretary of DST, emphasized the transformative impact of the policy, stating, “The liberalisation of geospatial data access through NGP has been a major step in transforming the way spatial data is used for reaching its benefits to the people.”

Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the governance framework for geospatial data has been revamped. The NGP eliminates the need for prior approval, security clearance, licenses, and other restrictions on geospatial data and maps within India. The pre-existing clearance system has been replaced by self-certification, simplifying access and fostering a more streamlined process.

To bolster data infrastructure and enhance the availability of location data, the Survey of India (SoI) has launched a pan-India Continuously Operating Reference Stations (CORS) Network. Additionally, under the SVAMITVA Scheme, SoI has conducted drone surveys and mapping of over 2.8 lakh villages in Andhra Pradesh, Haryana, and Karnataka.

Individuals, companies, and government agencies can now process acquired geospatial data, build applications, and develop solutions, fostering a thriving geospatial industry in the country. The NGP encourages open standards, open data, and platforms, promoting enterprise development and innovation.

The citizen-centric policy empowers local companies to generate and utilize their geospatial data, paving the way for technological innovations. The establishment of incubation centers, industry accelerators, and Geospatial Technology Parks further strengthens the ecosystem for innovation. The NGP positions India as a world leader in the global geospatial space, aligning with the Prime Minister’s vision of a developed and empowered nation.

With its focus on freedom to innovate and increased access to spatial data, the National Geospatial Policy has become a crucial tool supporting national development, economic prosperity, and a thriving information economy, realizing the dream of a “vikshit Bharat” or a developed India.