India’s New Role in Global Geospatial Leadership
India, represented by the Surveyor General of India, Shri Hitesh Kumar S. Makwana, IAS, has been elected as Co-Chair of the Regional Committee of the United Nations Global Geospatial Information Management for Asia and the Pacific (UN-GGIM-AP) for the 2025-2028 term. This prestigious appointment underscores India’s growing influence in the global geospatial community.
Fourteenth Plenary Meeting in Goyang-si, Republic of Korea
The election took place during the fourteenth Plenary Meeting of UN-GGIM-AP, held from September 24-26, 2025, in Goyang-si, Republic of Korea. Hosted by the National Geographic Information Institute (NGII), the meeting convened delegates from member states, technical experts, and observers to discuss advancements and challenges in geospatial information management across the Asia-Pacific region. Reports from the Executive Board, working groups, and partner organizations highlighted progress and outlined future initiatives.
India’s Commitment to Geospatial Innovation
India’s election as Co-Chair reflects its leadership in fostering innovation, capacity building, and regional collaboration in geospatial information management. Supported by all Asia-Pacific member states, India is poised to lead a productive three-year term aligned with the UN-GGIM Strategic Framework, focusing on data-driven decision-making, inclusivity, and good governance.
Statement from Shri Hitesh Kumar S. Makwana
Speaking at the event, Shri Makwana expressed his gratitude: “I am deeply honored by the trust that the Member States of the Asia-Pacific region have placed in India. As we look ahead to the upcoming term, I seek the continued cooperation and active support of all Member States, partners, and stakeholders.”
He emphasized a collaborative approach, stating, “Together with my fellow Co-Chair, Vice-Chairs, and Committee members, I am committed to ensuring our efforts are inclusive, resilient, and results-driven.”
Focus Areas for the 2025-2028 Term
During the upcoming term, India will prioritize initiatives aligned with the UN-GGIM Strategic Framework, including:
- Strong Leadership: Guiding regional efforts in geospatial policy and strategy.
- Secure Digital Transformation: Promoting advanced technologies for geospatial data management.
- Good Governance: Ensuring transparency and inclusivity in decision-making.
- Capacity Building: Strengthening partnerships and enhancing regional expertise.
Shri Makwana expressed enthusiasm for fostering a more connected and capable geospatial community, delivering measurable impact across the Asia-Pacific region.
Significance of India’s Role
The election of India’s Surveyor General as Co-Chair is expected to enhance India’s influence in shaping policies and strategies for effective geospatial information management. This role will strengthen India’s contribution to global geospatial standards and regional cooperation.
About UN-GGIM-AP
The UN-GGIM-AP is one of five regional committees under the United Nations Committee of Experts on Global Geospatial Information Management (UN-GGIM). Representing 56 countries in the Asia-Pacific region, it aims to maximize the economic, social, and environmental benefits of geospatial information through collaboration, capacity development, and innovative solutions.
Role of UN-GGIM
UN-GGIM serves as the apex inter-governmental body for making joint decisions and setting directions for the production, availability, and use of geospatial information. It addresses global challenges, supports development agendas, and promotes policymaking in geospatial information management.