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JANUARY 2025

Kurukshetraenglish

Space Technology For Rural India




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Contents

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Editorial

The intersection of space technology and rural progress in India is both vast and profound, offering solutions to challenges such as agricultural productivity, disaster management, rural education, and healthcare. Nation’s space missions, such as Chandrayaan and Mangalyaan, are well known for their success in planetary exploration, the influence of space technology on the ground, particularly in rural development, is often overlooked. Agriculture, the backbone of rural India, remains highly vulnerable to changing weather patterns, pests, and inadequate infrastructure. Space-based applications, such as satellite imaging, have revolutionized the ability to monitor crop health, water resources, and land use. These satellites provide crucial data for weather forecasting, drought prediction, and flood monitoring. Moreover, satellite imagery is used in precision farming techniques, helping farmers optimize the use of water, fertilizers, and pesticides.

Editorial

January, 2025

The intersection of space technology and rural progress in India is both vast and profound, offering solutions to challenges such as agricultural productivity, disaster management, rural education, and healthcare. Nation’s space missions, such as Chandrayaan and Mangalyaan, are well known for their success in planetary exploration, the influence of space technology on the ground, particularly in rural development, is often overlooked. Agriculture, the backbone of rural India, remains highly vulnerable to changing weather patterns, pests, and inadequate infrastructure. Space-based applications, such as satellite imaging, have revolutionized the ability to monitor crop health, water resources, and land use. These satellites provide crucial data for weather forecasting, drought prediction, and flood monitoring. Moreover, satellite imagery is used in precision farming techniques, helping farmers optimize the use of water, fertilizers, and pesticides.
Space technology plays a critical role in disaster preparedness, response, and recovery. During post-disaster recovery, satellite imagery helps assess the extent of damage and enables faster, more efficient delivery of aid and resources to affected areas. For instance, ISRO’s "Bhuvan" portal offers high-resolution
satellite images that can be used to assess flood damage and track recovery efforts. Space technology also supports the development of critical rural infrastructure. ISRO’s satellite-based mapping and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) are extensively used for planning rural infrastructure
projects such as roads, irrigation systems, and electrification. In rural India, access to quality education remains a persistent challenge. Space technology can play an essential role in bridging this gap by enabling satellite-based communication networks and e-learning platforms. The "EDUSAT" satellite, launched by ISRO, specifically targets the educational sector. Access to healthcare services is another critical concern in rural India. Space technology offers innovative solutions to overcome geographical barriers. The "Telemedicine" programme, supported by ISRO, leverages satellite communication for providing healthcare consultations, diagnostic support, and
medical education to rural areas. The synergy between space technology and rural development in India is a promising and transformative force. By enabling real-time data collection, communication, and monitoring, space technology is bridging critical gaps in agriculture, healthcare, education, disaster management, and infrastructure development. While challenges such as digital literacy, infrastructure limitations, and data accessibility remain, the integration of space technology into rural development initiatives holds immense potential for creating an inclusive and sustainable future. The reason for choosing Space technology theme for this issue of Kurukshetra is to make our readers aware about the fast paced development achieved in this sector by India in recent years and the increasing role of this technology in governance and digitization in our country. Efforts have been made to provide real time and latest information about the role of space technology in agriculture and rural development which has the largest share in economy.

Lead Article

lead

Geospatial Data for Rural Resource Management

Authors: Dr. Nimish Kapoor

Geoportals developed by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) have emerged as a key player in rural development and disaster management in India. In particular, platforms such as Bhuvan Panchayat and the National Database for Emergency Management (NDEM) are empowering resource management, planning and disaster response mechanisms in rural areas. Through Bhuvan Panchayat, gram panchayats are getting access to high-quality satellite images and geospatial data, enabling them to implement their development works in a science-based manner.

Geospatial Data for Rural Resource Management
Authors: Dr. Nimish Kapoor

lead

JANUARY, 2025

Geoportals developed by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) have emerged as a key player in rural development and disaster management in India. In particular, platforms such as Bhuvan Panchayat and the National Database for Emergency Management (NDEM) are empowering resource management, planning and disaster response mechanisms in rural areas. Through Bhuvan Panchayat, gram panchayats are getting access to high-quality satellite images and geospatial data, enabling them to implement their development works in a science-based manner. At the same time, the NDEM provides a robust geospatial database for effective decision-making and resource management during emergencies. These initiatives aim to promote transparency, accountability and sustainable development of governance in rural areas of India, which, combined with Digital India and other developmental schemes, are contributing to the overall development of the country.

 

Space-based Geoportal for Rural Development - Bhuvan Panchayat

Recently, an important geoportal developed by ISRO - Bhuvan Panchayat (version 4.0) has been launched in the country. The aim of these initiatives is to improve governance and decision-making by using space-based information in the field of geospatial database monitoring and rural development.

To empower the development of Gram Panchayats in India, a special geoportal - Bhuvan Panchayat has been launched by the Government of India and ISRO, which aims to assist in planning, monitoring and management of resources at the Gram Panchayat level through geospatial information and high-quality satellite images. It helps in monitoring land use, forest cover, water resources, and urban development. It helps in visualization and analysis of satellite data. The main objective of this initiative is to provide scientific satellite-imaging information to every Gram Panchayat, so that they can better implement their local development works.

Under this initiative, ISRO, in collaboration with various state governments and Panchayat Raj Institutions, has generated satellite-based data that will assist panchayats in matters of resource management, water and land use, socio-economic scenarios and primary health-education. The data collected by it can be used by the Gram Panchayats to prepare plans based on the information and monitor them.

 

The latest version 4.0 is equipped with more advanced features to maximize the benefits of rural development projects. Bhuvan Panchayat Geoportal (version 4.0) has been developed as an online platform that helps in the use and integration of space-based information for governance and research initiatives at the Gram Panchayat level. This platform has been developed by the National Remote Sensing Centre, which is capable of sharing, analyzing and visualizing web map service data products at 1:10,000 scale under the Space-based Information Support for Decentralized Planning (SIS-DP) project. 1:10,000 scale means that a distance of one centimetre on the map is equal to 100 metres in real life.

The platform uses web technologies, which enable it to work seamlessly across platforms and devices, and provides a seamless interface experience for users. With the availability of real-time data and analytics, the platform promotes transparency and accountability of rural projects. This enables effective use of resources and prevention of corruption. The Bhuvan Panchayat platform provides comprehensive data that supports holistic planning for various sectors such as agriculture, water resources, infrastructure, and social services. This holistic approach ensures that rural development is coherent and sustainable.

Gram Panchayats can accurately assess the status of their areas through Bhuvan Panchayat and make better use of local resources. This makes their plans more accurate and effective. Geospatial data from Bhuvan Panchayat can be used to manage water, land, and other natural resources, ensuring balanced and sustainable use of resources.

Bhuvan Panchayat (version 4.0) is playing a vital role in the development of rural India as an effective geospatial platform. It empowers local administration, ensures better management of resources, and makes citizens partners in governance. Also, it promotes transparency and accountability in monitoring developmental activities, thereby facilitating holistic and sustainable development in rural areas.

National Database for Emergency Management (NDEM) for Disaster Management

The recently launched National Database for Emergency Management (NDEM version 5.0) is a landmark initiative developed by ISRO with the objective of providing geospatial data and decision support tools for emergency management. Version 5.0 of NDEM provides enhanced features to further strengthen India’s disaster preparedness and response mechanism.

NDEM is based on a structured, multi-level database that helps in situation assessment and effective decision-making during disaster or emergency situations for the entire country. It is a national level geoportal which is location-based. NDEM combines the data with Decision Support System (DSS) tools and services obtained from disaster forecasting organizations. It covers various phases of all natural disasters in the country and helps in effective Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR). Additionally, NDEM acts as a disaster recovery and data provider node, providing data to the Integrated Control Room for Emergency Response.

NDEM manages all phases of disaster management – preparedness, prevention, response and rehabilitation. Due to this holistic approach, loss of life and property is minimized during disasters. The portal provides real-time data and forecast analysis, which are critical for timely decision making in emergency situations. This helps in effectively utilizing resources and reducing the impact of disasters. NDEM facilitates end-to-end coordination among various government and non-government agencies involved in disaster management. NDEM educates communities about potential risks and preparedness measures so that they become more capable to deal with emergency situations.

NDEM version 5.0 is an important step to strengthen and make the disaster management process in India more effective. It promotes holistic disaster management, coordination, and community resilience, as well as helps in making timely decisions, which can reduce the impact of disasters. This version of NDEM further strengthens India's disaster preparedness and response mechanism, making India more capable to deal with the impact of natural disasters.

Space-based Information Support for Decentralized Planning at Panchayat Level Project (SIS-DP)

ISRO, in collaboration with National Remote Sensing Centre and State Remote Sensing Centres, has launched Space-based Information Support for Decentralized Planning (SIS-DP) Project at Panchayat Level. This innovative initiative has been taken with the aim of strengthening local self-governance and empowering Panchayati Raj Institutions.

The project aims to improve the planning process at the Panchayat level through space-based data, analytical tools and geospatial products. Using high-resolution satellite imagery and Geospatial Information System (GIS) platforms, the initiative is helping to create a robust database for planning and governance, so that decisions are based on accurate and up-to-date geospatial data.

The key objectives of the SIS-DP project are to facilitate decentralized planning, promote transparency and improve governance at the Panchayat level. The work associated with this project is explained in the following points:

 

  • § Preparation of satellite imagery maps for decentralized planning: The project is preparing high-resolution orthorectified satellite maps for the entire country. These maps serve as the fundamentals for planning at the Panchayat level.
  • § Preparation of thematic and base layers: The project is working on topics such as land use/land cover, drainage, settlements, transport network, slopes and angles. Additionally, agricultural land records are being vectorized and geo-referenced to provide more detailed data.
  • § Creation of Centralized Databank: A centralized databank is being created which will include satellite imagery maps, thematic layers, slope maps, and other non-spatial data (such as census data, climate data, and village level data). All these data are being made available on a GIS platform so that they are easily accessible for planning.
  • § Development of Web Portal for Panchayati Raj Institutions and stakeholders: The project will develop a comprehensive web portal which will be accessible to Panchayati Raj Institutions and other stakeholders. This portal will become a tool for decentralized planning, governance, citizen outreach, and data dissemination.
  • § Capacity Building for stakeholders: An important component of the project is the capacity building of Panchayat members and stakeholders to enable them to effectively use space based information in decentralized planning and governance.

The SIS-DP project is being implemented in two phases. In the first phase, a national mosaic (a large collection of remote sensing data, which are stitched together to produce a detailed and accurate map) of high-resolution ortho products and digital elevation models obtained from Cartosat-1 and Resourcesat satellites was prepared.

Thematic layers and supporting data required for planning were also added in this phase. Thematic layers refer to different types of thematic data (such as land use, drainage, settlements, road network etc.), and supporting data is synonymous with other information that is helpful in planning and decision making, such as maps, geography and meteorological information. In the first phase, a detailed and accurate map was prepared using satellite images and data, which will be helpful for further planning and development work.

In the second phase, the scope of the project will be expanded to update geospatial data with the latest high-resolution satellite data and integrate geospatial data analysis to create ready-to-use geospatial products and services. These services will be provided through a geoportal at the Gram Panchayat level - Bhuvan Panchayat, which will act as a central hub for access and management of geospatial data.

The Space-based Information Support for Decentralized Planning (SIS-DP) project is a transformational initiative at Panchayat level aimed at enhancing the effectiveness of local governance and planning by using satellite data and geospatial tools. It will not only improve the quality of decision-making at the Panchayat level but also empower Panchayati Raj Institutions and citizens by providing them with the information required for sustainable development.

Digital India Land Records Modernization Programme (DILRMP)

Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has a significant contribution in the Digital India Land Records Modernization Programme (DILRMP). The DILRMP programme, run by the Ministry of Rural Development and Department of Land Resources, is supported by ISRO through its geospatial technical expertise, satellite imaging, and remote sensing.

ISRO's role is crucial in the modernization of land records at the national level. Its contribution under the Digital India Land Records Modernization Programme (DILRMP), formerly known as National Land Records Modernization Programme (NLRMP), is to improve the quality, transparency, and accessibility of land related information. It facilitates access to accurate land data for government departments and citizens.

The objective of DILRMP is to develop a modern, holistic and transparent land records management system to create an integrated land information management system. The objectives of the programme include improving land information (real-time information), optimising the use of land resources, benefiting land owners and potential users, aiding policy and planning, reducing land disputes, and checking fraudulent and benami transactions. The government has approved the extension of DILRMP for 5 years (from 2021-22 to 2025-26). Two new components have been added to the programme: (i) consent-based integration of Aadhaar numbers with land records database, (ii) computerization of revenue courts and integrating them with land records.

ISRO provides high-resolution satellite imagery and geospatial data, which are useful for mapping land records. These images are used to update and digitize cadastral maps, which are essential for accurate land record management. These imageries help create a digital map of land boundaries.

This program plays a vital role in geo-referencing traditional paper cadastral maps (Bhoomi maps). Geo-referencing involves aligning these paper maps with geographic coordinates using satellite-based positioning. This process is essential for integrating traditional land records with digital databases. Bhuvan Geoportal is integrated with DILRMP to increase accessibility of land data, map areas in digital format, and detect any changes in land use or boundaries.

ISRO's satellite technology is used to identify plots earmarked for single ownership or single use, so that land record management includes accurate geographic information. This process prevents problems like land disputes and encroachments. 

95% of land records of rural India now digitized

ISRO has played a vital role in digitization of land records and land management. High-resolution images and geographic mapping provided by ISRO satellites have made it possible to accurately determine land boundaries, resolve ownership disputes and improve the accuracy of surveys. ISRO satellite technology has contributed to making the land management system more effective and equitable.

In a landmark achievement, about 95% of land records of rural India have been digitized, revolutionizing the management of land ownership and transforming the lives of millions of people. This historic step is an important part of the Digital India Land Records Modernization Programme (DILRMP), which is a major step towards transparency, efficiency and empowerment.

Digitization of land records is playing a vital role in the development of rural India. It is helping solve longstanding problems like complex paperwork, ownership disputes and fraud. Union Rural Development Minister Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan recently emphasised the importance of this progress, and explained how digital records simplify land management and reduce the burden on courts, thereby speeding up the dispute resolution process.

With land ownership information now readily available online, rural households are enjoying greater security and convenience in land transactions than ever before. Disadvantaged communities are particularly benefiting from this change, as they gain better access to land rights. The integration of geographic mapping has improved the accuracy of surveys, helping in disaster response and fair compensation during land acquisition.

The programme has so far completed digitisation of 95% of land records, digitization of 68.02% of cadastral maps, and integration of 87% of sub-registrar offices with land records, creating a more systematic, transparent and accessible land governance system.

This transformation is laying a strong foundation towards building a more equitable and just society. By making land records clear and accessible, it is being ensured that rural communities can confidently claim their land rights, thereby promoting economic growth and stability. This milestone not only strengthens rural land governance, but also ensures that every individual can actively participate in the progress of the nation.

 

Digitization of Land Records: Improving Transparency, Better Management and Development

ISRO’s satellite technology and remote sensing data play a vital role in digitization of land records, ensuring accurate survey of land, geo-referencing and transparency, and helping resolve land disputes.

The Government of India has initiated the process of digitization of land records in 6.26 lakh villages, which is an important milestone in the efforts to make land ownership secure, transparent and accessible. This digitization aims to improve the land management system and solve various land related problems. Importance of Digitization of Land Records:

Land Disputes: More than 60% of litigation in India is related to land. Digitization can reduce these disputes.

Encroachment and Benami Properties: Digitization of land records will help in controlling encroachment and benami properties.

Inefficiency of manual processes: Digitization of land records will eliminate manual processes, thereby increasing efficiency.

Precise survey and planning: Transparency is being brought in land records through geospatial mapping, which will ensure equitable access to vulnerable sections.

Boosting agricultural credit: Clear ownership of land will ease the supply of agricultural credit, giving farmers access to capital.

Other benefits: Better targeted delivery of agricultural subsidies, timely compensation for land acquisition or disasters, and increased GDP.

 

ISRO satellites involved in digitization of land records and land survey work

Cartosat satellites: Cartosat-1, Cartosat-2, and its subsequent versions, such as Cartosat-3, provide high-resolution images, which are essential for determining the exact boundaries and use of land. These satellites are helpful in generating geospatial data, which accurately document the actual shape and boundaries of land. Cartosat satellites are also used in geo-referencing and thematic mapping.

ResourceSat Satellites: Resourcesat-1, Resourcesat-2, and Resourcesat-2A satellites provide important information about land use, environment, water resources, and agricultural activities. Data obtained from these satellites is used to obtain information such as land use change, agricultural production, and drainage, which helps in digitizing land records and making land management accurate.

The data obtained through these satellites provide geospatial data required for valuation, determination of land use and rights, and development plans. With the help of these satellites, land records can be digitized in a more accurate, transparent, and effective manner.

Through the 73rd and 74th Amendments of the Constitution of India, Panchayati Raj Institutions have got greater autonomy in their rights and jurisdiction. This initiative has been launched with the aim of making Panchayati Raj Institutions more efficient and effective so that they can make better decisions at the local level by using spatial data and satellite technology and bring transparency in governance.

Navigation Signal System (NavIC), which is an Indian satellite-based navigation system, will also be used to provide location based services to Gram Panchayats. Through this, information about the correct location and necessary data for local development plans will be available in an accurate and timely manner.

Through Bhuvan-Panchayat Geoportal, state governments and panchayats will be empowered and will get an opportunity to effectively implement government schemes and development works under Digital India. The platform will reach around 2.56 lakh Gram Panchayats, providing the technology and information required to improve the quality of life in rural areas. This initiative is streamlining the implementation, monitoring and resource management of schemes by Panchayat Raj Institutions using satellite technology and digital information to create holistic and sustainable strategies for rural development. This initiative is an important step under the Digital India program of the Government of India, which will technologically empower rural India and ensure its holistic development.

These geospatial platforms and projects developed by ISRO have given a new direction to Indian rural resource management, planning and disaster response mechanisms. These initiatives aim to promote transparency, resource management, and sustainable development, thereby enabling empowerment and sustainable development in rural areas. Through Bhuvan Panchayat, Gram Panchayats can now implement more scientific and data-supported schemes, while NDEM helps in making quick and effective decisions in disaster management. ISRO's role in DILRMP has improved digitization and transparency of land records, leading to better services to Indian rural society. ISRO has made significant contributions to resource management, governance and disaster response for rural areas of India, which will ensure more empowered, transparent and sustainable rural development in future.

 

The author is a science communication specialist. Email: nimish2047@gmail.com

Focus / Special Article

special article

ISRO's Role in Rural Development

Authors: Sudheer Kumar N

Rural development is a critical component of the country’s growth strategy, given that, in India, over 65% of its population resides in rural areas. Space technology has emerged as a transformative tool in this domain, offering innovative solutions to challenges in agriculture, water management, disaster preparedness, health, education, and infrastructure. Organizations like ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation) and several government programs leverage space-based applications to enhance the efficiency and reach of rural development initiatives. The satellite data and space applications contribute enormously for the sustainability of various domains. challenges such as agricultural productivity, disaster management, rural education, and healthcare. Nation’s space missions, such as Chandrayaan and Mangalyaan, are well known for their success in planetary exploration, the influence of space technology on the ground, particularly in rural development, is often overlooked. Agriculture, the backbone of rural India, remains highly vulnerable to changing weather patterns, pests, and inadequate infrastructure. Space-based applications, such as satellite imaging, have revolutionized the ability to monitor crop health, water resources, and land use. These satellites provide crucial data for weather forecasting, drought prediction, and flood monitoring. Moreover, satellite imagery is used in precision farming techniques, helping farmers optimize the use of water, fertilizers, and pesticides.

Focus

January, 2025

Rural development is a critical component of the country’s growth strategy, given that, in India, over 65% of its population resides in rural areas. Space technology has emerged as a transformative tool in this domain, offering innovative solutions to challenges in agriculture, water management, disaster preparedness, health, education, and infrastructure. Organizations like ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation) and several government programs leverage space-based applications to enhance the efficiency and reach of rural development initiatives. The satellite data and space applications contribute enormously for the sustainability of various domains.

Rural development applications are continuously focussing on water and land conservation through systematic planning, implementation of development plans in rural sector. Applications of geospatial solutions and their implementation in rural development sector provide customized near real time natural resources databases, tools for the analytics and drawing the water and land resources plans.

There are several initiatives / projects, which are taken up by State and Central Government departments at micro and macro level to enrich the assets required in rural sector for the sustainable development through growth of agriculture like Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), Accelerated Irrigation Benefit Programme (AIBP), Integrated Watershed Management, Programme (IWMP) and On Farm Water Management (OFWM), National Health Resource Repository (NHRR) Project, Rural connectivity, which uses the latest remote sensing and GIS technologies in operational modes.

Rural health sanitation improvement programmes are also playing major role in sustainable development. Several projects are being executed for supporting Ministry of Rural Development and are useful for governance.

Agriculture and Food Security

Agriculture in India holds a crucial place in the country's economy and society. As one of the largest agricultural economies in the world, India depends heavily on this sector for food security, employment, and economic development. Agriculture contributes approximately 18-20% of India’s GDP. Despite a declining share in the GDP due to industrial and service sector growth, it remains vital for economic stability. India is the world’s second-largest producer of rice and wheat and a leading producer of pulses. Initiatives like the Green Revolution in the 1960s boosted food grain production, making India self-sufficient in food. Agriculture accounts for about 12-15% of total exports from India.

Remote sensing satellites provides huge amount of data to assess the extent of crop for estimating the yield and analysing the productivity across various seasons and geographical regions. This facilitates planning the public distribution system and godowns for storing the food grains for ensuring the food security. It also enables the stake holders to take decisions on the export potential of various agricultural products that are excess over domestic consumption.

The satellite imagery also provides crucial information about the crops affected by pest and its propagation to contain the extent of damage. It also provides the demand of fertilisers and pesticides based on the crops and timely distribution for effective application and control.

The land records mapping and asset tagging is very important for the formers for regularising the loans and insurance claims in case of any calamities. The transactions will be more authenticated and secured using the satellite images to assess the extent of  damage and substantiate the claims.

Satellite data is much useful in assessing the soil moisture and super-impose the soil fertility information for assessing the water demand and suggesting a productive crop, that yields a balanced revenue for the farmers.

Majority of the farmers in India are in the small income groups and government supports them through various schemes such as Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY), Soil Health Card Scheme etc. Satellite imagery is used to assess crop damage and determine insurance claims under this crop insurance program, ensuring that farmers receive timely support in times of distress. The Soil Health Card provides farmers with information on soil health and fertility based on satellite and ground data. This helps them apply the right nutrients and improve productivity.

HORTICULTURE

Another domain contributes to the revenue is horticulture which includes, vegetables, fruits, flowers, herbs and ornamental plants. Hyperspectral satellite data will be used to the extent of analysing stress and quality of leaves and monitoring the health of the plants. The production and yield of different seasonal fruits and vegetables play a vital role in the distribution system to monitoring and control of the agriculture economy. This also leverages for proper planning of supply chain for a long term sustainability.

AQUACULTURE

Satellite imagery is increasingly being used in aquaculture to enhance productivity, sustainability, and environmental management. The remote sensing capabilities of satellites allow aquaculture practitioners to monitor and manage fish farms and aquatic ecosystems efficiently. Satellite images can help analyze water parameters such as chlorophyll concentration, turbidity, and temperature, which are crucial for site selection. Geographic data from satellites assist in identifying locations with optimal conditions for aquaculture based on factors like salinity, nutrient availability, and proximity to pollution sources. Thermal imaging from satellites helps track surface water temperatures, essential for fish and shrimp health. Satellites can detect sediment levels, indicating water clarity, which affects aquatic species' growth. By analyzing chlorophyll levels, satellites provide insights into plankton abundance, an important food source for some aquatic species. Satellite images can detect and monitor algal blooms, helping farmers mitigate risks of oxygen depletion and toxins affecting fish health. Continuous monitoring provides early warnings about blooms, allowing timely interventions. High-resolution satellite images can map aquaculture ponds, cages, and other infrastructure, ensuring proper spatial planning. Regular monitoring of aquaculture sites can track changes in water levels, vegetation, and infrastructure over time. Satellite data helps identify stressors like poor water quality or temperature fluctuations that could lead to disease outbreaks.

Digital Agriculture Mission

The Digital Agriculture Mission is designed as an umbrella scheme to support various digital agriculture initiatives. These include creating Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI), implementing the Digital General Crop Estimation Survey (DGCES), and supporting IT initiatives by the Central Government, State Governments, and Academic and Research Institutions.

The scheme is built on two foundational pillars:

  • · Agri Stack
  • · Krishi Decision Support System.

Additionally, the mission includes ‘Soil Profile Mapping’ and aims to enable farmer-centric digital services to provide timely and reliable information for the agriculture sector.

The Krishi Decision Support System (DSS) will integrate remote sensing data on crops, soil, weather, and water resources into a comprehensive geospatial system.

 

  • II. Water Resource Management

Satellite technology and data play a transformative role in water resource management by providing accurate, timely, and large-scale information about water availability, distribution, and quality. These tools aid in decision-making, planning, and sustainable management of water resources

Mapping and Monitoring Water Bodies: Satellites can track the extent, volume, and seasonal variations of lakes, rivers, and reservoirs. High-resolution imagery maps the size of water bodies, helping assess storage capacities and trends. Multi-temporal satellite data reveals changes in water body extents due to climate variability, urbanization, or other factors. Satellite imagery assesses water clarity and sediment transport in rivers and reservoirs. satellites detect groundwater depletion and recharge patterns. Satellite data helps in designing recharge structures and monitoring their effectiveness. Digital Elevation Models (DEMs) from satellites delineate watersheds and sub-basins

Irrigation Management : Satellites provide data on vegetation health and evapotranspiration, optimizing irrigation schedules. Monitoring irrigated areas ensures efficient water allocation for agriculture. Satellites provide critical data on soil moisture levels, aiding drought forecasting.

 

Integrated Watershed Management Programme (IWMP) creates wide network of farm ponds, check dams and other soil conservation measures apart from supporting many other natural resource management actions. A geospatial data oriented Web GIS solution along with smart phone based application for achieving transparent and precise governance is developed and hosted on Bhuvan-IWMP . High resolution time series satellite images rendered in natural color coupled with smart phone uploaded field inventory of activities done under IWMP. With spatially explicit and detailed space based imaging of the watersheds for time periods before the implementation of IWMP projects followed by post implementation period, it is possible to watch the changes brought in due to activities duly validated by the near real time inventory of the field structures and activities.

8200 micro watershed projects to be monitored for five years. Utilisation smart phone application based geotagging of activities are being handled by State agencies. Visualization of assets brought in high level transparency that is acknowledged widely.

  • · Space technology facilitates mapping of water bodies, groundwater recharge zones, and watershed areas. This data is crucial for irrigation planning and drought mitigation.
  • · Government Initiative: Under the Jal Shakti Abhiyan, satellite data is used to monitor water conservation projects and rejuvenation of water bodies in rural areas.

  • III. Disaster Management and Preparedness

 

Flood Monitoring and Management

Flood Prediction and Early Warning: Real-time satellite data identifies areas at risk by monitoring rainfall, river discharge, and water levels.

Damage Assessment: Post-flood imagery maps inundated areas to evaluate the extent of damage and aid in recovery efforts.

 

  • · National Agricultural Drought Assessment and Management System (NADAMS)- This initiative combines satellite data with meteorological data to assess drought conditions, providing timely information for farmers and policymakers to manage agricultural risk
  • · Early Warning Systems: Satellites like INSAT provide timely weather updates and disaster alerts, reducing vulnerability to cyclones, floods, and droughts.
  • · Post-Disaster Assessment: High-resolution imagery aids in damage assessment and planning for relief operations.
  • · ISRO's Flood Early Warning System (FEWS) has been integrated into rural flood-prone areas, enhancing disaster preparedness.

  • IV. Rural Connectivity, employment and Infrastructure

To demonstrate the potential of satellite technology for development of rural areas, ISRO established Village Resource Centres (VRCs) on a pilot scale, in association with selected NGOs, Trusts and State Government Departments. VRCs have provided various space technology enabled services such as tele-healthcare, tele-education, natural resources information, advisories related to agriculture, career guidance to rural students, skill development and vocational training etc. About Rs 18 crores was spent for establishing 473 VRCs.

The Ministry of Rural Development is utilizing the Geographic Information System (GIS) for improvement in planning and implementation of projects. GIS planning is being used for Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS) and Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY).

  • V. Healthcare and Education

  • · Telemedicine: ISRO’s satellite-based telemedicine services bridge the healthcare gap in rural areas, enabling specialist consultations remotely.

Telemedicine initiative has been broadly divided into the following areas:

  • a. Providing Telemedicine Technology & Connectivity between remote/rural hospital and Super Speciality Hospital for Teleconsultation & Treatment and Training of doctors & paramedics.
  • b. Providing the Technology & Connectivity for Continuing Medical Education (CME) between Medical Colleges & Post Graduate Medical Institutions/Hospitals.
  • c. Providing Technology & Connectivity for Mobile Telemedicine units for rural health camps especially in the areas of ophthalmology and community health.
  • d. Providing Technology and Connectivity for Disaster Management Support and Relief.

ISRO's Telemedicine pilot project was started in the year 2001 with the aim of introducing the Telemedicine facility to the grass root level population as a part of 'proof of concept technology demonstration' programme.

eSanjeevani - the National Telemedicine Service of MoHFW, Government of India has evolved into the world’s largest documented telemedicine implementation in the primary healthcare. 

For several decades, not only state-space agencies but also international organisations like the United Nations Office of Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA) and United Nations Platform for Space-based Information for Disaster Management and Emergency Response (UN-SPIDER) have also been promoting the use of space technologies for global health. 

Tele-Education: Initiatives like EDUSAT provide distance learning opportunities for rural students, improving access to quality education. ISRO’s Tele-education programme provides satellite-based distance education services for bridging rural-urban divide and improve quality in education sector across the country.

Objectives : 

  • · Supplementing curriculum based teaching
  • · E-learning through satellites
  • · Access to quality resource persons and education
  • · Taking education to every nook and corner of the country

 

 

  • VI. Land and Property Management

  • · Digital India Land Records Modernization Program (DILRMP):
    • o Integrates satellite imagery for accurate mapping of land parcels, ensuring better land governance.
    • o The Bhoomi initiative uses satellite imagery along with Ground Control Points (GCPs) to maintain accurate land records and streamline land transfer processes, thus promoting transparency in land dealings.
    • o SVAMITVA Scheme: Launched in 2020, this program uses drones and geospatial technology to map rural land parcels, providing ownership records and resolving property disputes.

7. Bhuvan Panchayat:

Bhuvan Panchayat portal is specifically designed to provide information and tools for utilisation on all the products and services developed under the National Natural Resources Management System (NNRMS) project called Space-based Information System for Decentralised Planning (SISDP). With an aim to support the geospatial data requirements for entire country at a large scale of 1:10k thematic products like LULC, Drainage, Settlements, Slope, Rail & Road along with collateral data and high resolution satellite imagery base of 2.5m, the project has successfully completed two phases i.e. SISDP and SISDP-U by generating and disseminating generated datasets on Bhuvan Panchayat portal.

Bhuvan Panchayat presents a comprehensive information on the project, its activities, facilities to download the data directly as a shape file or use the data as OGC WMS/WMTS services thus facilitating all the users of different geospatial domains to integrate the data directly in their value added services or showcase as mashups / overlays in their existing value chains. A pan India seamless coverage of thematic data at this large scale of 1:10k scale is made available to support growing needs of g-governance, societal applications, R&D activities in environment and land use studies and geospatial industry needs at absolutely no cost along with free access based on the governing policies as on date. 

8. BharatNet:

BharatNet, one of the biggest rural telecom projects in the world, implemented in a phased manner to all Gram Panchayats (approximately 2.5 lakh) in the country for providing non-discriminatory access to broadband connectivity to all the telecom service providers. Objective is to enable access providers like mobile operators, Internet Service Providers (ISPs), Cable TV operators, content providers to launch various services such as applications like e-health, e-education and e-governance in rural and remote India. The project has been approved by Union Cabinet on 25.10.2011. The project is being executed by a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) namely Bharat Broadband Network Limited (BBNL). Till Oct end, 2024, under BharatNet Phase-I and Phase-II; 2,14,283 GPs are service ready

 

  • i. Objectives: BharatNet aims to provide high-speed broadband to over 2.5 lakh Gram Panchayats (GPs) across India using optical fiber, enabling access to e-governance, e-health, e-education, and other digital services. Its last-mile connectivity extends broadband access to households, schools, hospitals, and other public institutions
  • ii. Implementation: The project has progressed through phases:
    • o Phase I (completed in 2017) covered over 1.25  lakh Gram Panchayats.
    • o Phase II: GPs are to be connected through multiple implementing models like State-led Model, Private Sector Model and CPSU Model, along with Last Mile connectivity in GPs through Wi-Fi or any other suitable broadband technology . 

References:

FROM PREVIOUS ISSUES

April 2023

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Month: August 2024

     From Classrooms to Screens: Future of Learning with Digital Education The future of learning with digital education holds immense promise. Advancements in artificial intelligence (AI), virtual reality (VR), and augmented reality (AR) technologies are poised to further revolutionise educational experiences.   If you want to teach people a way of thinking, don’t bother trying to teach them. Instead, give them a tool, the use of which will lead to new ways of thinking. – Richard Buckminster Fuller   *Rajnish Kumar * The author is a Chief Operating Officer, National e-Governance Division, (Ministry of Electronics and IT) & former Director (Digital Education), Ministry of Education, New Delhi. Email:...

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