International Workshop on Land Governance Kicks Off in Gurugram
In a groundbreaking initiative, the Ministry of Panchayati Raj (MoPR) launched the first International Workshop on Land Governance today at the Haryana Institute of Public Administration (HIPA) in Gurugram. This six-day event, organized in partnership with the Ministry of External Affairs under the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) programme, gathers over 40 senior officials from 22 countries across Africa, Latin America, and South-East Asia. The workshop aims to explore innovative solutions to global land governance challenges, aligning with Prime Minister Narendra Modi‘s vision for rural transformation through technology and secure land rights.
Key Figures Address the Inaugural Session
The inaugural session featured prominent officials, including Shri Sushil Kumar Lohani, Additional Secretary of the Ministry of Panchayati Raj, and Shri Viraj Singh, Additional Secretary of the Ministry of External Affairs. In his address, Lohani highlighted the SVAMITVA scheme, emphasizing its potential for global replication. “SVAMITVA is not merely a land mapping initiative; it is a holistic approach to empower rural communities through secure property rights,” he stated. He noted that over 3.17 lakh villages have been mapped, representing an asset base of approximately Rs.132 lakh crore, showcasing the scalability of this model. Lohani also underscored the transformative impact of geospatial technologies, particularly the integration of drone technology with traditional surveying methods, which has significantly enhanced mapping accuracy and efficiency.
Shri Viraj Singh added that the workshop exemplifies India’s commitment to South-South Cooperation and knowledge sharing. He stated, “By uniting nations facing similar land governance challenges, we are fostering a collaborative approach to tackle these issues globally.” Singh also acknowledged the role of the ITEC programme in promoting international cooperation and advancing land governance objectives.
Innovative Technologies on Display
A highlight of the workshop’s opening day was an exhibition showcasing the latest advancements in land governance and geospatial technologies. The event featured a variety of technological solutions, including precision drone mapping, 3D geospatial data analytics, and integrated land administration systems. Attendees were able to engage with high-precision surveying equipment and GIS applications designed to enhance land governance. Local innovations in drone technology were prominently featured, alongside demonstrations of survey-grade drones and other transformative tools. Participants had the opportunity to experience hands-on demonstrations of drone flight planning and real-time surveying capabilities, providing a glimpse into the future of land management.
Global Participation and Collaborative Learning
The workshop has attracted significant international interest, with delegates from 22 countries, including Turkmenistan, Colombia, and Zimbabwe, participating in the discussions. This event not only highlights India’s leadership in South-South Cooperation but also addresses critical challenges in land governance, such as property disputes and outdated land databases. The six-day workshop includes interactive technical sessions, field visits, and practical demonstrations, offering participants valuable insights into drone-based surveying and the integration of geospatial technologies in land administration. The SVAMITVA scheme, which aims to provide rural property owners with a “Record of Rights” through drone surveying, has successfully mapped over 3.17 lakh villages across India, representing a significant asset base.
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