On the inaugural day of the GEO Smart India 2023, the largest and most influential event in the geospatial industry, held at HICC, Hyderabad, India from October 17 to 19, 2023, Saurabh Rai, Chief Executive Officer of Arahas Technologies, delivered an insightful and thought-provoking address. In the presence of a distinguished audience comprising geospatial industry experts and leaders, Mr. Rai explored the pivotal role of geospatial technologies in propelling India’s ambitious journey towards a $5 trillion economy.
Emphasizing the significance of geospatial technologies in India’s economic ascent, Mr. Saurabh highlighted policies such as the National Geospatial Policy that serve as enablers of progress. He drew attention to precision agriculture, illustrating how geospatial analytics can provide substantial value to the agricultural sector, underscoring the tangible impact these technologies can have on India’s economic growth.
A central theme of the event was the evolution of the geospatial industry in India. It has evolved from being a provider of geospatial services to delivering comprehensive solutions. This transformation signifies India’s preparedness to engage in complex projects that span multiple sectors and involve various stakeholders, aligning with the nation’s ambitious economic goals.
“Niche Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) play a pivotal role as system integrators in the geospatial landscape. Their agility and specialization enable rapid adaptation and seamless integration into larger, more complex systems, further enhancing India’s geospatial capabilities,” emphasized Mr. Saurabh.
He stressed the importance of adopting global best practices and models, tailored to suit India’s unique context. This adaptive approach accelerates development and enhances efficiency, drawing from international resource management systems and disaster response plans, specifically tailored to India’s needs.
Geospatial technologies have received recognition for their data-driven approach to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) initiatives. These technologies can play a pivotal role in mapping and monitoring renewable energy resources, contributing to more sustainable development in India.
In the area of disaster management, geospatial tools were praised as invaluable assets. Their role in formulating effective evacuation plans and enabling real-time monitoring during various natural calamities was underscored, highlighting their importance in safeguarding lives and assets.
As India advances towards its $5 trillion economy goal, Saurabh Rai’s insights served to underscore the multidimensional role of geospatial technologies in this journey. Collaboration between MSMEs and larger industry players can create a dynamic ecosystem, while the adaptation of global best practices to India’s unique landscape can expedite the nation’s development goals.
