New Delhi: Policymakers, experts, and industry leaders gathered at the National Workshop on Strengthening the Geospatial Ecosystem, held at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, to discuss strategies for advancing India’s geospatial sector in alignment with the National Geospatial Policy (NGP) 2022. Organized by the Survey of India (SoI) under the Department of Science and Technology (DST), the workshop focused on fostering collaboration and innovation to realize the policy’s transformative potential.
In his address, Secretary DST, Professor Abhay Karandikar, highlighted the inclusive vision of NGP-2022, emphasizing its collective nature. “The National Geospatial Policy 2022 is not just a government initiative; it is a collective responsibility. Every citizen, every institution, and every industry have a role to play in realizing the promise of this policy. As we embrace the power of geospatial technologies, let us work together to ensure that the benefits are felt by all,” he said.
Surveyor General of India, Hitesh Kumar S. Makwana, underscored the need for collaboration, calling for the reduction of duplication in geospatial initiatives. He stressed the importance of seeking collaborative funding to enhance geospatial development and drive national progress.
The event also highlighted the impact of Operation Dronagiri, launched on November 13, 2024. This pioneering initiative leverages geospatial technologies to tackle critical challenges in agriculture, infrastructure, transportation, and livelihoods, showcasing India’s commitment to using innovation for economic and sectoral development.
Participants discussed the challenges and strategies for establishing a uniform and modernized National Geodetic Reference Frame, which is vital for integrated services and sustainable development. The workshop also addressed capacity development in the geospatial sector, focusing on standardized curricula, skill-building programs, and research to strengthen India’s geospatial capabilities.
Manoj Joshi, Secretary of the Department of Land Resources, and Srikant Shastri, Chairman of GDPDC, participated in the discussions, emphasizing the collaborative roles of various stakeholders, including central ministries, state governments, academia, and private industry.
The workshop served as a significant milestone in advancing India’s geospatial ambitions, laying the groundwork for innovation and collaboration. By aligning with the vision of NGP-2022, the event reinforced India’s commitment to becoming a global leader in the geospatial sector, ensuring that data-driven solutions drive sustainable development and economic prosperity.