National Geospatial Policy: A Unified Framework for Geospatial Data Management and Utilization

India has a diverse geography, ranging from high mountains to vast plains and dense forests to deserts. To manage this vast and varied land, India has recently formulated a National Geospatial Policy (NGP) that aims to provide a unified framework for geospatial data management, sharing, and utilization.

Geospatial technology has applications in various sectors, from agriculture to industry. Geospatial methods can help develop urban and rural infrastructure, administration of land, banking, and finance economic activities, disaster management, and health planning and delivering services.

The NGP 2022 is expected to significantly impact the Indian economy by unlocking the value of geospatial data and services for various sectors such as agriculture, health, education, infrastructure, urban development, disaster management, defence, security, etc.

According to a Geospatial Media and Communications report, India's geospatial economy is projected to grow at 12.8% CAGR and cross ₹63,000 crore by 2025. The policy will also enable India to leverage its competitive advantage in the global geospatial market, which is estimated to reach USD 439.2 billion by 2025.

Importance of Geospatial Data

Geospatial data is a critical infrastructure and national resource with proven societal, economic, and environmental value. It enables integrated government systems, services, and sustainable national development initiatives using ‘location’ as a common and underpinning reference frame.

Establishing a National Geospatial Data Infrastructure

One of the key features of the NGP is the establishment of a National Geospatial Data Infrastructure (NGDI) that will serve as a centralized repository of geospatial data from various sources. The NGDI will provide a platform for data sharing and exchange among various stakeholders, including government agencies, research institutions, and private companies.

The government also plans to establish a National Geospatial Authority (NGA) that will act as a nodal agency for coordinating, regulating, and facilitating all geospatial activities in the country.

Promoting Data Security

The policy also provisions for implementing a National Geospatial Data Security Framework (NGDSF) to protect geospatial data and assets from unauthorized access, use, or disclosure.

The NGP also emphasizes the need for open data sharing, which means that geospatial data collected using public funds will be made freely available to the public. This will promote transparency and accountability in the use of geospatial data and will also encourage innovation and entrepreneurship in the sector.

Capacity Building and Skill Development

Another important aspect of the NGP is promoting capacity building and skill development in the geospatial sector. The policy recognizes the need for a skilled workforce to effectively manage and utilize geospatial data for various applications. To this end, the NGP proposes various measures such as training programs, workshops, and certification courses that will help develop a skilled workforce in the geospatial sector.

Advancing Geospatial Space

According to the latest data, India has made significant progress in the field of geospatial data management in recent years. The country has a vast network of satellites and ground-based sensors that provide high-quality geospatial data for various applications. India has also developed several indigenous technologies, such as the Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System (IRNSS) and the Bhuvan geoportal, that provide valuable geospatial information for various applications.

Rectifications & Challenges to National Geospatial Policy 

One of the biggest challenges in the geospatial sector in India is the absence of a comprehensive policy that guides the development of a robust geospatial data ecosystem. The National Geospatial Policy aims to address this issue by providing a unified geospatial data management, sharing, and utilization framework.

There is a shortage of skilled professionals in the geospatial sector in India, which is hindering the industry's growth. The National Geospatial Policy recognizes this issue and proposes various measures to promote capacity building and skill development in the geospatial space.

Geospatial data contains sensitive information that needs to be protected from unauthorized access, use, or disclosure. The National Geospatial Policy proposes the implementation of a National Geospatial Data Security Framework that will protect geospatial data and assets from security threats.

Many stakeholders, including government agencies, private companies, and the general public, lack awareness about the potential of geospatial technology and its various applications. The National Geospatial Policy aims to address this issue by promoting awareness and education programs.

While India has made significant progress in developing its geospatial infrastructure, there is still a need for high-quality geospatial data in many areas. The National Geospatial Policy aims to address this issue by promoting open data sharing and the development of new geospatial technologies.

Establishing a National Geospatial Data Infrastructure will serve as a centralized repository of geospatial data from various sources, promoting data sharing and exchange among various stakeholders.

Promoting capacity building and skill development in the geospatial sector through training programs, workshops, and certification courses.

Implementing a National Geospatial Data Security Framework to protect geospatial data and assets from unauthorized access, use, or disclosure.

Promoting awareness and education programs to increase awareness among stakeholders about the potential of geospatial technology and its various applications.