Let’s set the stage by discussing the geospatial sector of India, focusing on aspects like remote sensing, geographic information systems (GIS), global navigation satellite systems (GNSS), 3D modeling, and the recent guidelines for India’s Geo-Spatial Sector. The geospatial economy in India is currently valued at Rs 38,972 crore and employs around 4.7 lakh people. Key segments include defense and intelligence, urban development, and utilities, which together account for nearly 38% of the total geospatial market. By 2025, the sector has the potential to grow to Rs 63,100 crore at 12.8%.
Launch of Google Street View in India
Google Street View, an immersive 360-degree view of locations captured using special cameras, is now available in ten cities in India under the National Geospatial Policy (NGP) 2021 guidelines. These images allow users to swipe through a detailed view of a location, either via an app on Android and iOS devices or a web viewer. However, the Indian government has restricted Street View data collection at government properties, defense establishments, and military areas. Over the years, Google Street View has raised privacy and security concerns regarding the capture and misuse of identifiable aspects.
National Geospatial Policy 2021: A Game Changer?
The National Geospatial Policy 2021 aims to liberalize the geospatial sector and democratize datasets generated by public funds. It empowers citizens and enterprises to create, access, and use geospatial data for developmental needs while safeguarding security interests. The policy outlines several key features, such as the wide and easy accessibility of Survey of India topographic data and the sharing of geospatial data produced with public funds as per the National Data Sharing and Accessibility Policy (2012).
Towards Standardizing Geospatial Data and Education
NGP 2021 emphasizes the need to standardize geospatial data storage formats, making it available in an interoperable machine-readable form. A significant issue is the duplication of efforts by various government agencies storing such data, leading to resource wastage. Also, there’s a call for a standardized curriculum for geospatial education and the establishment of a certifying body to review professional practices and certify individuals who complete geospatial education courses.
Opportunities and Challenges of India’s Geospatial Sector
Growth potential in India’s geospatial sector is undeniable. Companies like Amazon and Zomato already leverage geospatial technology to streamline delivery operations, supporting livelihood generation. The government’s Gati Shakti program could also benefit from smooth implementation using this technology. Furthermore, focusing on the sector could spur Indian companies to develop indigenous apps akin to Google Maps.
At the same time, there are challenges. Access to geospatial data is currently restricted for non-governmental entities, including businesses and individuals. And while around 200 universities/institutions provide geospatial education, there is a lack of standardization in its curriculum. Additionally, the data shared by the government is often not machine-readable.
Prospects in Land Management, Crisis Handling, and Modeling
The geospatial sector has incredible potential in areas like land record management. With this technology, the data related to a vast number of landholdings can be accurately tagged and digitized, potentially reducing land disputes in courts. Moreover, during the Covid-19 vaccination drive, geospatial technology provided robust support to logistics and crisis management. There’s also promising value in using geospatial technology to create intelligent maps and models for STEM applications or social investigations and policy-based research.
