Has India Become Co-Chair of the UN Global Geospatial’s Regional Committee?
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Synopsis
India's election as Co-Chair of UN-GGIM-AP marks a significant achievement, showcasing its leadership in geospatial information management. This three-year term aligns with strategic frameworks aimed at enhancing collaboration and innovation in the Asia-Pacific region.
Key Takeaways
- India's election as Co-Chair of UN-GGIM-AP showcases its leadership in geospatial matters.
- Focus on strong leadership and digital transformation in geospatial information management.
- Commitment to collaboration and inclusivity across Asia-Pacific.
- Three-year term aligns with the UN-GGIM Strategic Framework.
- Efforts to strengthen partnerships and enhance capacity.
New Delhi, Oct 16 (NationPress) India has been elected to the esteemed role of Co-Chair of the Regional Committee of the United Nations Global Geospatial Information Management for Asia and the Pacific (UN-GGIM-AP), as announced by the Ministry of Science and Technology on Thursday.
The elections took place during the 14th Plenary Meeting of UN-GGIM-AP in September, which was held in Goyang-si, Republic of Korea, by the National Geographic Information Institute (NGII).
According to the Ministry, India’s election as Co-Chair signifies its growing leadership in the global geospatial landscape and recognizes its efforts in fostering innovation, enhancing capacity, and promoting regional collaboration.
India will occupy this influential position for a three-year term that aligns with the UN-GGIM Strategic Framework.
The meeting convened representatives from member states, technical specialists, and observers to deliberate on pertinent issues concerning geospatial information management within the Asia-Pacific region.
“I am truly honored by the confidence that the Member States of the Asia-Pacific region have placed in India. As we prepare for the upcoming term, I earnestly seek the ongoing cooperation and active support of all Member States, partners, and stakeholders,” expressed Hitesh Kumar S. Makwana, IAS, the Surveyor General of India, who attended the meeting.
“Alongside my fellow Co-Chair, Vice-Chairs, and Committee members, I am dedicated to collaborating with all of you to ensure our joint efforts are inclusive, resilient, and result-oriented,” he further stated.
Makwana indicated that during the forthcoming term, the nation’s initiatives will be closely aligned with the UN-GGIM Strategic Framework—emphasizing strong leadership, secure digital transformation, and effective governance.
“We aim to advocate for data-driven decision-making, inclusivity, and transparency while reinforcing partnerships and enhancing capacity to achieve measurable impacts across the Asia-Pacific region,” he noted.
Makwana also expressed gratitude for the sustained trust and support, conveying the country’s eagerness to further collaborate in nurturing a more interconnected, capable, and forward-thinking geospatial community.
The UN-GGIM-AP is one of the five regional committees under the United Nations Committee of Experts on Global Geospatial Information Management (UN-GGIM).
It represents the National Geospatial Information Agencies of 56 countries in the Asia and Pacific region, working to maximize the economic, social, and environmental advantages of geospatial information through cooperation, capacity development, and shared solutions.
The UN-GGIM strives to tackle global challenges concerning the utilization of geospatial information, including in developmental agendas, serving as a body for global policymaking in the realm of geospatial information management.
Point of View
India's election to the Co-Chair position of UN-GGIM-AP emphasizes its commitment to playing a pivotal role in global geospatial governance. This development reflects India's strategic foresight and dedication to regional cooperation, aligning with global standards and practices.
NationPress
16/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is UN-GGIM-AP?
The UN-GGIM-AP is the Regional Committee of the United Nations focused on Global Geospatial Information Management for Asia and the Pacific, working to enhance the economic, social, and environmental benefits of geospatial information.
How long is India's term as Co-Chair?
India will serve a three-year term as Co-Chair, which is aligned with the UN-GGIM Strategic Framework.
What are the goals of UN-GGIM-AP?
The goals include maximizing the benefits of geospatial information through cooperation, capacity building, and addressing global challenges in geospatial data usage.
Who represented India at the meeting?
Hitesh Kumar S. Makwana, the Surveyor General of India, represented the country at the meeting.
What initiatives will India focus on during its term?
India will emphasize strong leadership, secure digital transformation, good governance, and promoting data-driven decision-making.
