Science & Technology · Mapping & data
Geospatial Science & National Infrastructure
Geospatial data covers maps, positioning, elevation and earth observation. It underpins infrastructure planning, climate monitoring and disaster response. Since 2021 the Department of Science & Technology has changed how such data may be collected and shared in India. This page documents those changes.
Policy text
National Geospatial Policy 2022
The National Geospatial Policy was notified on 28 December 2022. According to PIB, it:
- sets a long-term vision to 2035;
- aims to liberalise and democratise access to geospatial data;
- sets a goal of a high-resolution topographical survey and mapping system, and a highly accurate Digital Elevation Model, by 2030.
The Policy followed the DST “Guidelines for acquiring and producing Geospatial Data and Geospatial Data Services including Maps” issued on 15 February 2021. Those guidelines changed the earlier regime of prior approvals for acquiring and producing geospatial data.
PIB 2106569 · DST — GeospatialChronology
Geospatial record
Each entry is labelled by type.
- 15 Feb 2021dst.gov.in
Geospatial data guidelines issued
DST issued guidelines for acquiring and producing geospatial data and services, including maps.
Policy - 28 Dec 2022PIB 2106569
National Geospatial Policy notified
A vision to 2035, with high-resolution topographic mapping and an accurate DEM by 2030.
Policy - 30 Jul 2025PIB 2150367
NISAR earth-observation satellite launched
A joint NASA–ISRO radar mission for observing the Earth's surface. The Minister watched the launch from New Delhi.
Institutional achievement - 17 Dec 2025PIB 2205453
Survey of India national workshop, Yashobhoomi
In a video message, the Minister described geospatial technologies as a “foundational pillar” of development. He cited the 2021 reforms and the 2022 Policy, and referred to the launch of a National Geospatial Mission.
Ministerial statement - 21 Aug 2026DSTI South Africa
BRICS Geospatial Cooperation Roadmap noted
The “Chennai Consensus” declaration of the 14th BRICS STI Ministerial Meeting notes a proposed BRICS Geospatial Cooperation Roadmap for 2027–30.
Multilateral
Applications
Where geospatial data is used
These are general descriptions of the uses the Policy addresses. They are not claims about specific outcomes.
Infrastructure planning
Accurate elevation and topographic data are basic inputs for roads, railways, water and urban planning.
Positioning & geodesy
A national geodetic reference frame makes survey-grade positioning possible for mapping and construction.
Climate monitoring
Earth-observation data, including radar missions such as NISAR, supports observation of land, ice and vegetation.
Disaster response
Maps and elevation models support flood modelling, hazard mapping and emergency response. See Earth Sciences for warning services.