Geographical Information System (GIS)

For Prelims: Geographical Information System, Spatial Data, Vector Data, Raster Data, Urban
Planning, Environmental Management, Disaster Management, Agriculture, Space Research,
Bhuvan, Bharat Maps, Gram Manchitra, Artificial Intelligence, IoT, Big Data, Cloud Computing,
Open-Source GIS, SVAMITVA Scheme, National Geospatial Policy (NGP) 2022

For Mains: Geographical Information System (GIS): its significance in various sectors, related challenges
and way forward.

What is a Geographical Information System (GIS)?

About:
A Geographical Information System (GIS) is a computer-based tool that allows users
to capture, store, manipulate, analyze, manage, and visualize geographic
or spatial data.
It integrates hardware, software, and data for processing geographically referenced
information.
Types of GIS Data:
Vector Data: One of the two primary data models used in GIS. It represents geographic
features using points, lines, and polygons.
Raster data: It represents the Earth's surface as a grid of cells or pixels, with each cell
holding a value that represents a specific attribute, such as temperature, elevation,
or land cover.
What are the Applications of GIS?
Urban Planning:
GIS is extensively used in urban planning to facilitate efficient and sustainable
development. It helps in land-use mapping by identifying and categorizing areas into
residential, commercial, industrial, and recreational zones.
It supports infrastructure development by analyzing demographic trends,
terrain, and existing utilities, thereby enabling the optimal placement of roads, public
transportation, sewage systems, and other urban facilities.
Environmental Management:
GIS plays a vital role in conserving natural resources and environmental
management.
It is used to monitor deforestation by detecting changes in forest cover over time
using satellite imagery.
GIS also assists in tracking pollution, such as identifying the sources and spread of air,
water, and soil pollutants.
Furthermore, it supports the management of wildlife habitats by mapping migration
 routes, human encroachment, and biodiversity patterns.
Disaster Management:
GIS is a crucial tool in all phases of disaster management, i.e., prevention,
preparedness, response, and recovery.
It is employed in flood mapping to identify flood-prone areas by analyzing elevation
and hydrological data.
For earthquake risk assessment, GIS maps fault lines and identifies vulnerable
structures and populations.
During disasters, GIS supports relief and response operations by planning evacuation
routes, locating shelters, and coordinating rescue efforts.
Agriculture:
In the field of agriculture, GIS
enhances productivity and sustainability through data-driven decision-making.
It enables precision farming by providing insights into crop health, soil
conditions, and irrigation requirements.
Soil analysis using GIS helps farmers determine soil fertility, pH levels, and moisture
content.
GIS is used for monitoring pest outbreaks, allowing for timely and targeted pesticide
applications.
Space Research:
GIS is integral to space research, particularly in the planning and execution of space
missions.
It aids in planetary mapping by generating detailed maps of celestial bodies like
the Moon and Mars, which are essential for scientific analysis and navigation.
GIS also contributes to mission planning by helping researchers select
safe and scientifically valuable landing sites.
Moreover, when combined with remote sensing, GIS enhances the study of
both Earth and extraterrestrial terrains.

How Does GIS Integrate with Other Technologies?

AI and Machine Learning: GIS integrates with Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine
Learning (ML) to enhance predictive modeling and spatial analysis.
Predictive Modeling: AI can predict future trends, such as changes in land
use, climate patterns, or urban growth, based on historical geospatial data.
Image Classification and Object Detection: ML algorithms can classify land features,
detect changes in satellite imagery, and automatically extract useful data from complex
maps.
Real-time Data Collection: The integration of the Internet of Things (IoT) with GIS allows
for real-time data collection and monitoring of spatial phenomena.
IoT devices, such as sensors and GPS trackers, generate continuous streams
of geospatial data, which can be immediately analyzed and visualized on GIS platforms
such as environmental monitoring, smart cities and disaster management.
Big Data: Handling Large Geospatial Datasets: With the growth of large-scale geospatial
data, Big Data technologies help handle and process massive datasets that traditional GIS tools
may struggle with.
GIS works with Big Data platforms to manage, analyze, and extract insights from
vast amounts of geospatial information.

What are the Government Initiatives Related to GIS in India?

National Geospatial Policy (NGP) 2022: Its objective is to position India as a global leader in
the geospatial sector by promoting the use of geospatial data in public and private sectors.
Its goal is to develop Geospatial infrastructures, Geospatial skill and knowledge, standards,
and Geospatial businesses.
SVAMITVA Scheme: Its objective is to provide property cards and digitize land records in
rural areas using GIS and drone-based mapping.
Its aim is to resolve property disputes, enhance financial inclusion, and support
 rural planning.
Utilizes Continuously Operating Reference Stations (CORS) and drone surveys for
accurate land mapping
Bhuvan: The Bhuvan web portal provides extensive and comprehensive access to satellite
imagery and geospatial data covering the entire country.
It supports applications that provide detailed geospatial analysis and mapping
features, which in turn facilitate developmental planning, disaster
management, inventory management, environmental conservation etc.
Bharat Maps: Bharat Maps is a multi-layer GIS platform developed by the National Informatics
Centre (NIC) to support e-governance and digital infrastructure initiatives in India.
SOI Online Maps and Data Portal: It is a digital initiative by the Survey of India (SOI), the
national mapping agency.
This portal provides online access to a wide range of topographic and thematic maps,
geospatial datasets, and cartographic tools for public and government use.
Sarthi: This is a Web-based GIS (Web GIS) platform developed to provide interactive
geospatial tools and data visualization for informed decision-making across various sectors.
Gram Manchitra: It is a GIS-based platform developed by the Ministry of Panchayati Raj to
empower Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) with spatial planning capabilities.
Geospatial Energy Map of India: It was launched in 2021 by NITI Aayog in collaboration with
the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO).
It provides a comprehensive GIS visualization of the country's energy
resources and infrastructure.
It aims to streamline energy sector planning, enhance policy-making, and foster
efficiency gains.

What are the Challenges Related to GIS Implementation?

Inadequate Data Quality: The major challenge in GIS implementation is the availability of
accurate and up-to-date data.
Geospatial data can become outdated due to environmental changes, urbanization,
or natural disasters.
Inaccurate or outdated data, such as obsolete land-use maps or incorrect population
figures, can result in flawed analysis and poor decision-making, impacting urban
planning and resource distribution.
High Cost: The ongoing maintenance and software updates also add to the financial
burden, making it difficult for many public or private sector entities to fully integrate GIS
into their operations.
The specialized software required for GIS analysis is often expensive, and there are
additional costs for high-resolution satellite imagery, GPS equipment, and servers for
data storage.
Lack of Skilled Personnel: Another significant challenge is the lack of skilled
professionals trained in GIS technologies.
GIS implementation requires experts who can handle complex data analysis, map
creation, and decision-making processes.
There is a need for professionals who are proficient in both geospatial
technologies and specific application areas such as urban planning, agriculture, or
disaster management.
The shortage of trained GIS professionals can hinder the effective use and adoption of GIS
systems in many sectors.
Privacy and Security Concerns: This includes risks of unauthorized access to sensitive
location data, potential misuse of personal and critical infrastructure information,
and vulnerabilities to cyberattacks that can compromise data integrity and national
security.

How can GIS be Improved in India?

Enhancing GIS Accuracy Through Advanced Technologies: Establish systems for frequent
data collection and real-time updates using modern technologies like IoT sensors, satellite
 imagery, and drones.
Use AI and ML algorithms for error detection and data validation to ensure accuracy and
consistency in geospatial datasets.
Open-Source Software: Promote the use of open-source GIS software like Quantum
Geographic Information System (QGIS), which reduces the cost burden on organizations,
especially in developing countries.
Training and Capacity Building: Investing in GIS training programs and certifications, with
collaboration between universities, institutes, and industry, can ensure a steady flow of skilled
professionals.
Geospatial Investment and Infrastructure: A geospatial investment fund will further
boost startups, promote local manufacturing, and enhance India’s global competitiveness in the
concerned sector.
Indigenous Technology and Self-Sufficiency: There is a need for developing indigenous
geospatial technologies to reduce reliance on foreign solutions.
This includes promoting domestic software and hardware development to build a self-
reliant geospatial industry in India.
Data Protection: Strengthen data protection laws and enforce strict cybersecurity protocols for
location-based services. Promote transparency and accountability among data handlers to
safeguard national and individual interests.

Conclusion
Geographic Information Systems (GIS) are vital for informed decision-making across diverse sectors. With
supportive policies, technological integration, and skilled manpower, India can harness GIS for sustainable
development. Addressing current challenges will unlock its full transformative potential.

UPSC Civil Services Examination, Previous Year Question (PYQ)

Prelims

Q.1 In the context of space technology, what is “Bhuvan”, recently in the news? (2010)

(a) A mini satellite launched by ISRO for promoting the distance education in India
(b) The name given to the next Moon Impact Probe, for Chandrayaan-II
(c) A geoportal of ISRO with 3D imaging capabilities of India
(d) A space telescope developed by India

Ans: C

Mains

Q.2 Discuss India’s achievements in the field of Space Science and Technology. How the application of
this technology helped India in its socio-economic development? (2016)

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