India is putting out its mapping, geospatial data available for general use

India’s Department of Science and Technology on Monday opened access to its geospatial data and services, including maps, for all Indian entities by saying, “what is readily available globally does not need to be regulated.” The move is said to release a lot of data that is currently restricted and not available for free. The update represents a major change in the country’s mapping policy, which earlier required individuals and companies to seek approval for use of mapping data under the Geospatial Information Regulation Act, 2016. Geospatial data includes location information about natural or man-made, physical or imaginary features, whether above the ground or below, boundaries, points of interest, natural phenomena, mobility data, weather patterns, and other statistical information. Commenting on the government’s move, Rohan Verma, CEO of MapMyIndia, said there will be an unprecedented value creation for Indian economy and society as result of making geospatial data available for general use.