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Understanding the National Geospatial Policy 2022

A Comprehensive Look at Its Role in Infrastructure Development

Understanding the National Geospatial Policy 2022

  • 29 May, 2025
  • 295

Understanding the National Geospatial Policy 2022

The National Geospatial Policy (NGP) 2022 is pivotal in enhancing infrastructure planning across India. It directly supports PM Gati Shakti – a National Master Plan that integrates 16 Ministries onto a unified digital platform.

This policy aims to provide real-time, location-based data that helps minimize delays, avoid duplication of efforts, and ensure quicker project delivery. By improving connectivity, the NGP enables planners to effectively map and connect various transport networks, including roads, railways, ports, and airports.

Role of Geospatial Tools

The utilization of geospatial tools from ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation) and BiSAG-N (Bhaskaracharya National Institute for Space Applications and Geo-informatics) is crucial in supporting this integrated planning system. These tools facilitate better spatial analysis and monitoring of infrastructure projects.

Benefits of NGP 2022

  • Improved Project Delivery: The provision of accurate geospatial data helps planners identify existing infrastructure, thus speeding up the planning phase.
  • Enhanced Connectivity: Planners can efficiently map transport routes, ensuring that all areas, including remote locations, are well-connected.
  • Resource Optimization: By utilizing the same updated maps, Ministries can avoid unnecessary duplication of construction efforts.
  • Support for Economic Growth: Better infrastructure attracts investment, reduces transportation costs, and generates employment opportunities.

Real-World Examples

For instance, before constructing a new road, planners can use the platform to verify if a railway line or pipeline is already planned in the vicinity. In Maharashtra, the construction of a railway line was expedited by assessing forest clearance needs through satellite imagery.

Furthermore, NGP plays a crucial role in last-mile connectivity. For example, in Uttarakhand, remote villages can now be located on digital maps, facilitating new road links under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is PM Gati Shakti and how is it linked to NGP 2022?
Answer: PM Gati Shakti is a digital platform that facilitates collaborative planning of infrastructure projects among various Ministries. NGP 2022 enhances this by providing precise location data and maps to streamline planning efforts.

Q2. How does geospatial data reduce project delays?
Answer: Real-time maps and satellite data allow early identification of land boundaries and terrain challenges, minimizing rework. For instance, satellite maps helped expedite a railway project in Maharashtra by clarifying forest clearance needs.

Q3. What is the role of BiSAG-N and ISRO?
Answer: BiSAG-N and ISRO provide essential spatial planning tools and satellite imagery, enabling effective design and monitoring of infrastructure projects. For example, ISRO's imagery was critical in assessing flood-prone zones for highway construction in Assam.

Q4. How does NGP help with last-mile connectivity?
Answer: NGP assists planners in identifying transportation network gaps, ensuring that remote areas are adequately connected. In Uttarakhand, digital maps have facilitated new road links for previously isolated villages.

Q5. How are States involved in this system?
Answer: State Governments contribute by uploading their infrastructure data and plans to the platform, aligning state objectives with national priorities. Karnataka, for instance, linked state road projects with national highway corridors through the Gati Shakti portal.

UPSC Practice MCQs

Question 1: What is the primary goal of the National Geospatial Policy 2022?
A) To enhance digital literacy
B) To support infrastructure planning
C) To promote urban development
D) To increase agricultural output
Correct Answer: B

Question 2: Which organization provides spatial planning tools for the NGP?
A) NASA
B) ISRO
C) DRDO
D) ISRO and BiSAG-N
Correct Answer: D

Question 3: How does NGP facilitate better connectivity?
A) By providing financial aid
B) By improving public transport
C) By mapping transport networks
D) By constructing new buildings
Correct Answer: C

Question 4: What is the significance of PM Gati Shakti in relation to NGP?
A) It is a construction company
B) It is a digital planning platform
C) It is a financial scheme
D) It is a transportation regulation
Correct Answer: B

 

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