The Survey of India

The Survey of India

The Survey of India is the oldest survey and mapping organization in India, established in 1767 by the British East India Company. Its primary function is to create accurate maps and geographical information for the country. The organization conducts surveys, creates topographic maps, collects geospatial data, and provides mapping services for various purposes like infrastructure development, defense, urban planning, and resource management. Their work is vital for ensuring accurate land records, aiding in disaster management, and supporting various governmental and non-governmental initiatives
 
The Survey of India (SOI) is the national mapping agency of India, established in 1767 and one of the oldest scientific departments of the Government of India. It is headquartered in Dehradun, Uttarakhand, and has 18 geospatial divisions spread across the country
 
Responsibilities of Survey of India

The Survey of India shoulders several critical responsibilities:

  1. It conducts geodetic, topographic, cadastral, and thematic surveys to create accurate maps and geospatial data of the country. This includes mapping of terrain, land use, natural resources, infrastructure, and more.

  2. Produces topographic maps, thematic maps, and other cartographic products to support various governmental, developmental, and commercial activities.

  3. Establishes and maintains the national geodetic control network, providing reference points for surveying and mapping activities across the country.

  4.  Conducts cadastral surveys to demarcate and map land boundaries, aiding in land administration and property records.

  5. Manages and disseminates geospatial data, ensuring accessibility to government agencies, private organizations, and the public.

  6. Engages in research and development activities to improve surveying techniques, mapping technologies, and geospatial data analysis.

  7. Provides crucial support to various government initiatives such as infrastructure planning, disaster management, urban development, defense, and natural resource management through accurate mapping and geospatial information.

  8. Collaborates with international organizations and agencies to ensure compatibility and standardization of geospatial data and mapping practices.

 
Survey of India Projects

The Survey of India (SOI) undertakes a wide range of projects spanning various sectors, contributing significantly to the nation’s development and security. Here’s a glimpse into some of their key projects:

National Hydrology Project (NHP):

  • A crucial initiative to establish a system for timely and reliable water resources data acquisition, storage, collation, and management.
  • SOI generates and provides various geospatial datasets, including high-resolution topographic maps and Digital Elevation Models (DEMs) of river basins.
  • Plays a vital role in flood forecasting, irrigation planning, and overall water resource management

Digital India Land Records Modernization Programme (DILRMP):

  • Aims to create a single, accurate, and up-to-date land records database across India.
  • SOI provides высокоточные aerial photographs and digital maps, aiding in land titling, boundary demarcation, and resolution of land disputes.
  • Contributes to improved transparency and efficiency in land administration

Geoinformation Portal of India (GeoPI):

  • A one-stop platform for accessing a vast repository of geospatial data from various government agencies.
  • SOI contributes various datasets, including topographic maps, digital elevation models, and orthophotographs.
  • Enables users to find, download, and utilize geospatial data for various purposes, such as urban planning, infrastructure development, and environmental monitoring
 
 
Frequently Asked Questions On Survey of India
 
What is the Survey of India?
    • The Survey of India (SOI) is the national mapping agency of India, established in 1767. It creates and maintains topographic maps, nautical charts, aerial photographs, and other geospatial data for the entire country.
What are the responsibilities of the SOI?
    • SOI’s responsibilities include:
      • Mapping the entire country with accurate and up-to-date topographic and thematic maps.
      • Creating nautical charts for safe navigation along the Indian coastline.
      • Providing geospatial data and services to various government agencies, businesses, and individuals.
      • Playing a role in border demarcation, disaster management, and infrastructure development.
What are some of the achievements of the SOI?
    • SOI has a long history of achievements, including:
      • Conducting the Great Trigonometrical Survey, one of the first large-scale scientific surveys of a continent.
      • Being the first national mapping agency to adopt satellite imagery for mapmaking.
      • Developing several innovative technologies for surveying and mapping.
What types of maps and data does the SOI provide?
    • SOI offers a wide range of products and services, including:
      • Topographic maps at various scales (national, state, district, etc.)
      • Nautical charts and hydrographic data
      • Aerial photographs and digital orthophotos
      • Digital Elevation Models (DEMs)
      • Geospatial data sets on various themes like population, land use, infrastructure, etc.
    • You can access these products and services through the SOI website or by contacting their regional offices.
Who are the main users of SOI data?
    • SOI data is used by a wide range of stakeholders, including:
      • Government agencies for planning, policymaking, and resource management.
      • Businesses for market research, environmental assessments, and infrastructure development.
      • Researchers and academics for various studies and analyses.
      • Individuals for navigation, recreation, and travel planning
 

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