Context: Recently, two Geoportals namely ‘Bhuvan Panchayat (Ver. 4.0)” portal for rural land records and “National Database for Emergency Management (NDEM Ver. 5.0)” launched at Prithvi Bhavan.

About National Database for Emergency Management (NDEM Ver. 5.0)

• The National Database for Emergency Management (NDEM Ver. 5.0) is a geo-portal designed to disseminate crucial space-based information and services related to natural disasters across India and neighboring countries.

• The database provides comprehensive geospatial data essential for addressing emergency situations and disaster management efforts nationwide.

• Purpose: NDEM serves as a centralized repository for space-based inputs, aimed at enhancing disaster management and reducing risks associated with natural calamities.

• It covers a wide spectrum of natural disasters, extending its services beyond India to neighboring countries.

Key Features

• Comprehensive Data: NDEM offers a structured, multi-scale geospatial database covering the entire nation.

• Situational Assessment: It supports informed decision-making during emergencies by providing up-to-date situational assessments.

• Early Warning System: NDEM plays a crucial role in establishing an early warning system, helping to mitigate the impact of natural disasters and safeguarding citizens from unpredictable natural events.

• Technology and Scope: NDEM leverages advanced geospatial tools to monitor and manage emergencies effectively.

About Bhuvan Panchayat (Ver. 4.0)

• The geoportal is an advanced online platform developed by the National Remote Sensing Centre (NRSC), under the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).

• Purpose: This portal serves as a comprehensive WebGIS (Web Geographic Information System) which is designed to support “Space-based Information Support for Decentralized Planning (SISDP)” and empower citizens at the grassroots level in Panchayats across India.

• Features: It provides high-resolution satellite imagery at a scale of 1:10K, enabling visualization and planning for infrastructure development, land use, and disaster risk reduction.

• Benefits: By digitalizing rural land records and improving land revenue management, Bhuvan Panchayat aims to reduce corruption, enhance transparency, and promote ease of living by giving citizens direct access to real-time data.

Role of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)

• ISRO, India's space agency, is responsible for scientific, engineering, and technological advancements to harness the benefits of space for the nation and humanity as a whole.

Core Responsibilities

• Space Exploration: ISRO designs and develops launch vehicles, satellites, and spacecraft to explore outer space, including missions to the Moon and Mars.

• Earth Observation: ISRO operates a large constellation of remote sensing satellites that provide valuable data for weather forecasting, disaster management, resource monitoring, and urban planning.

• Communication and Navigation: ISRO's satellite systems enable communication, broadcasting, and navigation services across the country, bridging the digital divide and enhancing connectivity.

• Scientific Research: ISRO conducts scientific research in space science, astrophysics, and planetary exploration, contributing to the global understanding of the universe.

• Technological Development: ISRO promotes the development of indigenous space technology, including launch vehicles, satellite platforms, and ground infrastructure, promoting self-reliance and reducing dependence on foreign technology.

Contributions to National Development

• Agriculture: ISRO's satellite data helps in crop yield estimation, drought monitoring, and precision farming, benefiting farmers and enhancing agricultural productivity.

• Disaster Management: ISRO's early warning systems and satellite imagery aid in disaster preparedness, response, and mitigation, minimising the impact of natural calamities.

• National Security: ISRO's satellite-based communication and surveillance systems contribute to national security and defense capabilities.

• Socio-Economic Development: ISRO's space applications, such as telemedicine, distance education, and e-governance, enhance the quality of life and empower communities, especially in rural areas.