The National Geospatial Policy (NGP), announced by the Centre on December 28, 2022, seeks to liberalize access to geospatial data, foster innovation in governance, business, and academia, and drive India toward its vision of a self-reliant “Viksit Bharat” by 2047.
A key objective of the NGP is to establish a high-resolution topographical survey and mapping system by 2030, along with creating a highly accurate Digital Elevation Model (DEM) for the entire country.
The policy outlines a strategic plan to develop geospatial infrastructure, services, and platforms at both national and sub-national levels.
Empowering Governance and Economic Growth
The National Geospatial Policy acknowledges the critical role of geospatial technology in governance, economic growth, and societal development. It emphasizes enhancing institutional frameworks, promoting state and national-level coordination, and creating a vibrant geospatial ecosystem.
The Department of Science and Technology (DST) is the central agency responsible for driving this initiative, encouraging the reuse and open access to geospatial data, products, and services via a network of geospatial platforms.
The policy is expected to revolutionize sectors such as urban planning, disaster management, agriculture, environmental conservation, and transportation by facilitating the adoption of geospatial technology. This is in line with the government’s mission to modernize infrastructure, improve governance, and boost economic efficiency through data-driven decision-making.
Geospatial Policy aligns with PM Gati Shakti
The National Geospatial Policy (NGP) 2022 is closely aligned with the PM Gati Shakti – National Master Plan for Multi-modal Connectivity, a transformative digital platform launched to streamline infrastructure development across 16 key Ministries, including Railways and Roadways.
By fostering coordinated infrastructure planning and execution, PM Gati Shakti aims to create seamless multi-modal connectivity for the efficient movement of people, goods, and services across various transportation modes. This initiative focuses on enhancing last-mile connectivity and significantly reducing travel time.
Leveraging the power of accurate, real-time geospatial data, NGP 2022 plays a pivotal role in optimizing infrastructure projects. It helps to minimize redundancies, improve resource utilization, and ensure that infrastructure schemes across Ministries and State Governments are integrated effectively. A key feature of this initiative is the extensive use of geospatial technology, including advanced spatial planning tools developed by ISRO and BiSAG-N, which enable data-driven decision-making.
By aligning with PM Gati Shakti, the National Geospatial Policy 2022 is driving efficient infrastructure development and accelerating economic growth through enhanced connectivity and smart resource management.
Operation Dronagiri: A Pilot Initiative for Geospatial Innovation
A significant step under the National Geospatial Policy is the launch of Operation Dronagiri on November 13, 2024. This pilot initiative aims to demonstrate the real-world applications of geospatial technologies in enhancing citizen services, business efficiency, and governance. Operation Dronagiri is designed to integrate geospatial data, analytics, and advanced mapping technologies to support multiple sectors.
Initially implemented across five states—Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Assam, Andhra Pradesh, and Maharashtra—the project brings together government departments, industry partners, corporations, and startups to drive geospatial innovation and ensure the efficient utilization of spatial data.
Key Features: Integrated Geospatial Data Sharing Interface (GDI)
A standout feature of Operation Dronagiri is the development of an Integrated Geospatial Data Sharing Interface (GDI), which facilitates seamless access to and sharing of geospatial data across various sectors. The GDI supports applications in urban planning, environmental monitoring, and disaster management, helping organizations make informed, data-driven decisions for public welfare.
Impact and Future Expansion
Operation Dronagiri is expected to significantly enhance governance, boost economic efficiency, and promote sustainable infrastructure development. By integrating geospatial technologies with public and private sector initiatives, the project envisions a nationwide rollout under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, ensuring long-term sustainability and widespread impact.
Towards a Geospatial Revolution
With the introduction of the National Geospatial Policy 2022, India is on the path to becoming a global geospatial hub. The policy simplifies data access, encourages innovation, and supports enterprise development, thereby creating a dynamic geospatial sector that strengthens governance, industry, and research.
