Context:

• The second batch of Phase II of the NAKSHA Capacity Building Programme was inaugurated on 16 June 2025 at four National Centres of Excellence.

Programme Overview:

• Inauguration Date: 16 June 2025
• Locations: Four Centres of Excellence – Pune, Guwahati, Chandigarh, Mysuru
• Training Duration: One week (starting 16 June 2025)
• Participants: Officials from 128 Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) and District-level administrations
• Objective: To train officials in drone-based surveys, orthorectified imagery, and geospatial data management for effective monitoring of urban land surveys under the NAKSHA Project.

Role of the Four Centres of Excellence:

• These centres have been strategically chosen to ensure region-wise access to training for officials across India.

Inaugural Ceremony:

• Each centre witnessed participation from local administrative officers, representatives of the Department of Land Resources (DoLR), and technical experts from the Survey of India.

The events included:

• Discussion on the significance of the NAKSHA Project.
• Emphasis on the role of geospatial technologies in digital land administration.
• Presentation of the training curriculum and expected outcomes.

Training Curriculum and Format:

Training Modules:

• Drone Surveying: Techniques for drone operations, data capture, and orthorectified imagery creation.
• Geospatial Data Management: Handling, analysis, and storage of geo-referenced data.
• Digital Mapping: Preparation of accurate digital maps and property cards.
• Policy Framework: Legal and administrative processes involved in land surveys under the project.
• Software Training: Use of geospatial software and data processing tools.

Training Format:

• Theoretical Sessions: Concepts of geospatial technologies and survey methodologies.
• Practical Sessions: Hands-on exercises in drone flying, data analysis, and mapping.
• Case Studies: Examples from successful pilot surveys conducted in Phase I.
• Interactive Sessions: Q&A and troubleshooting with domain experts.

About NAKSHA Programme:

• Full Name: National Geospatial Knowledge-based Land Survey of Urban Habitations
• Purpose: To conduct scientific urban land surveys using modern geospatial technologies such as drone/satellite-based aerial surveys and web-GIS platforms.
• Coverage: 157 Urban Local Bodies from 27 states and 3 Union Territories.
• Nodal Agency: Department of Land Resources (DoLR), Ministry of Rural Development.
• Funding: 100% centrally funded with a budget allocation of ₹194 crore.
• Technical Partners: Survey of India, NICSI, MPSEDC, etc.
• Priority Areas: Smaller towns (Area < 35 sq. km, Population < 2 lakh)