| His Coordinates | |
“With the dawn of deep tech, geospatial analytics is becoming more intelligent and powerful”
Says Prof. Muralikrishna V. Iyyanki in an interview with Coordinates magazine, where he shares his insights on various topics, including the current status, emerging trends, and future prospects of geospatial technologies. |
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What is your opinion about the present status of geospatial technology and education in India?
The present status of Geospatial technology is that it has evolved as a powerful gizmo for tackling concerns interconnected to the earth, environment and people. Geospatial technology is adding upfront the outcomes or spin-off boons of advances under “Deep Tech missions”. Geospatial technology is in a stimulating and transformative stage. Let us understand that Deep tech is a global and all-purpose term for a basket of technologies of AI, robotics, blockchain, biotech, and quantum computing with a prescribed protocol. Consider AI, which is the prime constituent of Deep tech with applications in several areas, including healthcare, agriculture, etc. Space Technology has made significant strides with advancements primarily in the areas of remote sensing spatial resolution, spectral coverage and navigation facilities through GPS, etc., providing complex and large volumes of datasets. Conventional geospatial analytics have their boundaries when handling datasets. However, with the dawn of deep tech, geospatial analytics is becoming more intelligent and powerful. As an immediate example, it can be understood that Geo AI algorithms leading to “Geospatial Generative AI” have immense implications across many tasks, for example, Climate change adaptation, disaster risk reduction, urban infrastructure management etc., Considering the status of geospatial technology in India, it is critical to investigate the status and the essentials of geospatial technology education in India. Here are some key aspects that present the status and possible food for thought for a purpose-driven way forward
Geospatial technology and its education can be viewed through three mutually exclusive and significant domains or even towers. The first domain or tower is related to the hardware-oriented engineering discipline which is factually and directly not part of the geospatial education. The second domain or tower is related to software which is also exclusively not a part of the Geospatial education. The status of education in India in these two domains Viz., -Space technology-related Hardware and Software is unique and of the highest international quality and stands second to none at the global level. Every Indian is proud of ISRO’s several advancements in satellite technology. To quote a few that are relevant here, it is ISRO’s Cartosat and Resourcesat series, providing high-quality geospatial data. These are adequately supported by DST through NSDI and relevant Geospatial education missions which enhanced the value of remote sensing, data and its utilization. The superior education infrastructure related to these two domains viz Hardware and software, has facilitated amazing advancements in the aerospace sectors both in Government and Private. These two domains are the very strong potential candidates with the highest scope for facilitating the country under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) campaign.
The Third domain or tower is the Science and Technology of Geospatial Technology Applications. At the international level in many countries, all the three domains or towers mentioned here are part of their Mainstream graduate /postgraduate education and are progressing very well with state-of-the-art infrastructure and appropriate human resources for education and training. But in India the third domain or tower is yet to become part of the mainstream of formal Geospatial education unlike the first and second domains mentioned earlier. There are, of course, dedicated efforts being made by DST and DOS as well as UGC and AICTE. The National Geospatial Policy 2022 is aimed at democratizing geospatial data and fostering innovation.
In India the cream of students opts for engineering education with focus on IT and electronics due to the guaranteed campus placements and further employments. The experts belonging to the third domain provide the essential and fruitful link between satellite data providers [Domain 1 and 2] and users of the benefits of the technology i.e. Government and people. There is an unnoticed and very unsmiling cavity in terms of the volume of the students related to the third domain. The cavity is in terms of the relevance of course curriculum and employment opportunities.
In this context, there is a need for designing the curriculum with a strong focus on geospatial technology as part of the deep tech mission and demonstrate career opportunities in specific disciplines related to the third domain. The specific geospatial tools and techniques that are related to the third domain broadly should become part of the course work for students belonging to streams of Agriculture, Forestry, Architecture and Town planning, Geology and other earth sciences, Civil engineering, Management etc. The subjects like geospatial tools and techniques as well as data analytics i.e., AI tools and techniques. Inclusion of specially designed Electives which cover advanced topics like Cloud computing, Python, Generative AI, Geospatial AI, 3D printing, AR/VR, Cyber/information security, cyber-physical systems, Cyber laws, Geodesy, Remote sensing data policy, National Geospatial Policy, NSDI, GSDI etc. will help in enhancing and upbringing the status of the geospatial education with reference to the third domain.
Mini projects integrating the data analytics tools and open GIS software and knowledge of the student’s specialization, say for example – Water Resources or Climate change adaptation or disaster risk reduction should be part of the Geospatial technology graduate/postgraduate degree programs. Here, the inclusion of principles of Geospatial thinking, design thinking as well as Open Innovation and Business Model Canvas on the lines of Berkeley Hass [University of California] would lead to a new brand of GEOSPATIAL TECHNOLOGY specialists who is a core discipline knowledgeempowered well qualified Geospatial technology application specialist.
Geospatial education primarily should focus on providing human resources belonging to the third domain, as explained above. This specialist will be the candidate with a passion for research and or entrepreneurship ie Geospatial Entrepreneur – Geopreneur. They become leaders to contribute to the Aatmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) campaign.
Next despite ISRO’s developments, there are significant gaps in the availability of remote sensing data in general and up-to-date high-resolution data in particular to meet the needs of academic institutions to provide adequate number of trained professionals. This results in shortage of trained professionals in geospatial technology, thus, limits the full utilization of National spatial data infrastructure potential.
Geospatial technology is increasingly being integrated into critical areas and projects major and minor should be part of the curriculum – To cite a few Smart cities -planning and infrastructure management , Precision farming, crop monitoring, Utilization of technologies like drones, Remote sensing data realtime mapping are used for disaster preparedness, infrastructure projects like highways, railways, Mapping deforestation, monitoring biodiversity, and studying climate change impact. Increasing adoption of drones for mapping, surveying, and monitoring, particularly in agriculture, mining etc.,
Government initiatives like the Digital India program and collaborations accelerate the geospatial sector’s growth. Here development of geospatial platforms is one important activity specially for educational institutions for reducing dependency on external platforms like Google Maps etc. to facilitate India to become a global hub for geospatial innovation.
How has the growing prominence of UAV/ UAS/ Drones-based mapping impacted Remote Sensing?Please elaborate on some points where both overlap each other and where they have distinct advantages.
UAV/ UAS/ Drones are significantly contributing to remote sensing of natural resource management. Agriculture, floods and other disaster response and recovery, civil engineering construction and urban infrastructure planning and management, forest management etc. are some of the areas for which Drones have transformed significantly the field of remote sensing application. Drones with panchromatic, multispectral or hyperspectral sensors by design flying at low altitudes provide very high-resolution imagery. These imageries complement traditional satellite imagery which may belong to low resolution category. The fact is that the remote sensing imagery from both platforms becomes prime data for processing, analyzing, and visualizing geospatial data.
Drones can provide ultra-high-resolution imagery (up to a few cm per pixel) and can capture data on-demand, unlike satellites, which may be constrained by orbital paths or revisit times. For small to medium-sized projects, Drone mapping is more affordable. For large-area mapping, drones are not suitable or appropriate as satellites surpass in area coverage, making them suitable for regional, national, and global-scale analysis. Satellites provide a long archive of imagery (e.g., IRS LISS data since 1988] enabling temporal change detection and trend analysis.
The main concern for drone data collection is the lack of consistency in data collection over time, making them not dependable for longitudinal studies. Also, the satellite systems e.g.: RISAT or MODIS, etc., provide data from a wide range of optical and microwave passive and active sensors and bands that Drones may not yet support due to payload or other technical and viability constrictions.
There is very significant benefit of drones beyond the well talked real-time monitoring applications. It is in operations involved in combining high-resolution drone data and satellite-based low or medium-resolution data for validation, calibration and mapping with improved accuracy. Also, Drone-collected data can serve as ground truth for calibrating and validating satellite remote sensing models. A collective methodology consents researchers to analyze occurrences across distinctive spatial scales, from global tendencies to site-specific features. In a nutshell, remote sensing using Drones is ideal and needed for real-time operations and also for substantiating conventional satellite-based operations, which indeed has no substitute either from a technology point or viability point. Also, if we deliberate concerning the remote sensing undertakings in terms of the discovery of the overlap between drones and satellite platforms, it can be concluded that both have overlapping capabilities. The complementary capability that can be leveraged is based on the differences in spatial resolution (example 10 cm from Drones and 100 cm from satellites), Swath width (example 500 meters from drones and 100 or 1000 km from satellites).
The ideal approach for large or mediumscale surveys is the adoption of a hybrid approach which is seemingly being identified as the best option. That means drone-satellite integration would be an operational model for a comprehensive understanding of the terrain as well as preparation for real-time applications like disaster management. The hybrid approach gives scope for Data fusion, which can enhance the accuracy and understanding of the spectral characters of the different terrain features. This approach can also define the path for a hierarchical monitoring system. Thus, drones and satellites overlap in remote sensing but they also have complementary capabilities that can be leveraged to construct a state-of-the-art operational and equipped remote sensing system.
With Generative AI gaining prominence, could you please highlight few benefits and challenges that it may pose to the end user of remote sensing technology?
Generative AI is rapidly transforming various domains, including remote sensing technology. There are many case studies stating how Generative models can simulate different climatic / environmental situations for planning and risk assessment purposes, assisting in predictive and prescriptive analytics. It has scope for extracting features from remote sensing data. Change detection is being reported as one of the very important derived products from Gen AI to apply to disaster management. Gen AI can synthesize high-quality imagery from incomplete or noisy remote sensing data, improving accuracy in interpretation and providing a window for automated feature extraction. The Gen AI’s unique capabilities of prediction and prescription help in the simulation of remote sensing imagery for specific regions or conditions. This may moderate the need for frequent data acquisition. Of course, this needs a planned validation effort.
Also, the case studies available in the literature brings out that techniques like super-resolution models are of great help to enhance the quality of low-resolution satellite images, allowing for better classification. Of course, there are many challenges as on date due to the deficiency in complete understanding in integrating particularly the features /domain knowledge of geology and geomorphology in the treatment of the terrain imagery in terms of predictive analytics and or prescriptive analytics. Accuracy, ethical concerns in data simulation and the vast computational and resource demands are identified challenges during my Geo-Spatial Gen AI application studies related to PM 2.5 and acute respiratory infection modelling, disaster risk reduction, climate change adaptation etc.
Let us appreciate the fact that Gen AI is said to offer unique potential in remote sensing to provide desirable, feasible and viable Image data with predictive capabilities.However, the current state of the art of the technology suggests, that the remote sensing professionals should not over-rely on Gen AI turnouts, demoting the demand for traditional domain proficiency and ground validation, which is fundamental in remote sensing. Robust validation mechanisms are indispensable.
How do you see the adoption of blockchain technology worldwide in general and in India in particular? Do you think we as a country are equipped enough to adopt this advanced technology? Are there areas of integration of blockchain technology with the geospatial domain?
The implementation of blockchain technology is growing globally, though at erratic proportions and frequencies primarily based on the technological infrastructure and regulatory aspects of governance. Globally, Blockchain is being functional within a few sectors like finance, health, supply chain management etc. Cryptocurrencies, smart contracts, and secure patient data are a few examples of the many areas of application at the global level. The current understanding of blockchain technology leads to comment that scalability and interoperability remain technical challenges. Also, the regulatory and legal frameworks are still growing in many countries, creating ambiguity.
The Indian government is working on blockchain technology for land record management, e-governance, and supply chain transparency. States like Telangana and Andhra Pradesh are using blockchain for securing land records, while Maharashtra is exploring it for fraud detection in the public distribution system. Indian startups need to be encouraged to build solutions in selected areas, including healthcare, land records management etc. The main challenge is the requirement for a strong digital infrastructure and a skilled workforce. Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) form the crucial ‘middle of the pyramid’ in the geospatial ecosystem. They are vital and critical to the development and deployment of cutting-edge technologies. Many sectors, including SMEs, are not fully aware of the potential of blockchain. Blockchain can transform the geospatial domain by enhancing data integrity, transparency, and security. Blockchain can ensure tamper-proof storeroom and transparent transactions for land ownership records, reducing disputes and fraud.
Disaster management, environmental monitoring, and smart cities are few examples wherein Blockchain combined with Geospatial technology can add value to traditional geospatial models. Is India ready is one question. Certainly, there is scope and need to work on blockchains combined with geospatial technology to build sandboxes. Also upskilling of geospatial professionals and education stream for blockchain-specific applications. This is one area with huge potential for Entrepreneurship, particularly in land records management in this vast country. The upskilling mission needs to include the triple helix system between government, academia, and industry, exceptionally in sectors like land records management, urban planning and disaster response.
What is the concept of exposome? What is its relevance/significance in the geospatial domain?
The exposome is a theory that expresses the totality of environmental exposures from the day of birth, along with the associated biological response. It is referred to as the exposome, a theory that has become increasingly important for discovering environmental causes of disease. WHO named air pollution as the biggest environmental risk to health in 2019. According to WHO, nine in 10 people regularly breathe air that contains microscopic pollutants that can damage their lungs, heart, and brain. The exposome theory was inducted within epidemiology. The term “exposome” was coined by Dr Christopher Wild in 2005 to encompass “the totality of human environmental exposures from conception onwards, complementing the genome”
The geospatial significance gets accredited by integrating with exposome science which indeed provides the large amount of data for modelling interfaces between environment, space, and health, ultimately driving evidence-based interventions to improve population health. The geospatial data (e.g., satellite imagery, air and water quality sensors), pollutants like PM2.5, water contamination in specific regions, and geographic disparities in exposure to environmental hazards could be quantified. This can be integrated with the availability of green spaces, walkability, noise pollution, and urban heat islands the exposome concept in the form of a geospatial exposome index like the air quality index may be demarcated.
Would you agree that there may be fewer experts in fields like Geodesy in India?
Geodesy is a well-known discipline that is central to mapping, navigation, and monitoring. Since the Earth is in constant motion, an accurate reference point is essential for determining dimensions. Geodesy measures the Earth’s shape, rotation, and gravitational field. Some routine applications of general significance include floodplain mapping, which relies on precise terrain elevations, and engineering and construction activities, which depend on accurate positioning. Thus, geodesy is a critical discipline in many fields, including navigation and engineering, and is particularly important also for space exploration. In my experience, Geodesy has the scope to support and drive innovation in geospatial technology. In this Deeptech age, maximum surveying and mapping devices are gathering and generating data in digital format. For example, consider an activity of digital twin product development or enlargement. Any such activity certainly requires a standard built on codes of geodesy and surveying, which are indeed the foundation for planning, design and positioning. However, the issue here is related to the crisis in terms of the lack of availability of trained geodetic manpower. This archetype demands an appropriate revision of how surveyors and geodesists provide their products and services..
Let me quote here about the white paper cum report dated 1 January 2022 titled “The Geodesy Crisis” by Mike Bevis and the team available at https://www. fgdc.gov/ngac/meetings/september-2022/ geodesy-presentation-ngac-sep-2022.pdf.
The white paper cum report specifies a ground reality regarding the lack of human resources and the need for funding research in geodesy, both in basic and applied aspects.
There are relatively fewer experts in specialized fields like geodesy in India compared to other units of geospatial technology per se. Let us at this stage, comprehend that remote sensing and navigation satellite amenities are crucial for various actions related to natural resources and environmental management, infrastructure development and strategic planning. The main apprehension here is related to the prevailing research gap in India and the lack of awareness of the perils associated with it. This highlights the immediate need for trained geodesy professionals. Why are there no programs that include Geodesy as a prime learning or research subject in the ongoing geospatial technology programs in different IITs and universities in the country? This cannot be overlooked by the government or academia. It is not an exaggeration or amplification to say that the “absolute national economy integration to the popular geospatial framework in several ways is reinforced by geodesy”.
How do you see climate change as a challenge to the growth of human kind? Are there some actionable and acceptable solution available to combat this challenge?
Climate change is one of the realities and challenges to the growth and sustainability of humankind, impacting virtually every aspect of life, from the environment and economy to health and social stability. The challenges to be addressed due to climate change are well understood and documented through scientific and social media of all forms and of course, demand higher concentration and dedication to provide actionable solutions. What is needed is to ponder how technology, either Deeptech or traditional technologies or their appropriate combination, can provide solutions to adaptation and mitigation. Now, several approaches are being suggested for some of the fields, say, like agriculture, infrastructure, energy, water management etc. For example, the development of drought resistant crops and sustainable cultivation practices are being suggested for agriculture to adaption. Water recycling, desalination, and rainwater conservation etc. are being suggested for water management to adaptation. Some of the Actionable and Acceptable Solutions include carbon pricing, energy efficiency, renewable energy, etc. In fact, more than any of these technological considerations more important is behavioural change through the reduction of waste and the adoption of a circular economy
What are your views on the quality and level of geospatial education in India?
The quality and level of geospatial education in India have shown notable progress over the years, but some areas need further development. Some of the requirements are addressed in terms of advanced research in data processing, geospatial and generative AI, and geodesy applications. Government initiatives like the National Geospatial Policy 2021 are suitable to foster a conducive environment for geospatial education and research. What is needed is the policy implementation in a faithful manner. One important factor is the Shortage of Skilled Faculty with deep expertise in geospatial technologies and their interdisciplinary applications. Industryacademia collaboration for geospatial research and internships remains limited compared to global standards. A lot can be stated here and what is needed is policy support and investment.
How conducive is the prevailing policy scenario for the growth of geospatial technology?
The conduciveness of the prevailing policy scenario for the growth of geospatial technology varies across regions, but there are several general trends in terms of data accessibility and uneven growth. The global policy scenario is progressively becoming more conducive to the growth of geospatial technology, driven by increasing recognition of its applications in governance, business, and sustainability
What is the significance or scope of Geospatial Technology in the implementation or implantation of the Industry 4.0 plan as well as schema?
Geospatial technology provides locationbased data as an added advantage. It has a decisive task in Industry 4.0, augmenting working proficiency due to this advantage. There are a good number of cases in which Geospatial technology has played a key role in industry layout optimisation and supply chain logistics improvement. The integration of geospatial technology into Industry 4.0 systems shall enrich the outcome of any product or process development plan. It is an ongoing process with limited cases of direct utilization of the geospatial technology. By leveraging location intelligence, industries are continuously working to optimize operations.
Let me convey here that the Industry 4.0 implementation schema inadvertently has a built-in technology-based ingredient, which needs a copious attachment to geospatial intelligence and geospatial technology. In simple words, this technology-based ingredient is the Geospatial technology. A prerequisite here for an outstanding industry 4.0 implementation outcome is the continuous operation of enhanced industry-academia dialogue to support the addition of numerous valid geospatial and non-spatial attributes.
The inherent and indefinite potential of geospatial data provides additional support to implement Industry 4.0 protocols in terms of manufacturing, waste management and environmental management, and beyond, making it a dynamic constituent of the Industry 4.0 ecosystem. The potential of geospatial data composes an outstanding platform for descriptive analytics, diagnostic analytics, predictive analytics and prescriptive analytics.
It may not be out of context to realize and mention here that the established processes of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies are a keystone of Industry 4.0. Essentially, automation and optimisation are the branded outcomes of Industry 4.0 that make AI pertinent to Industry 4.0. Thus, Geospatial AI (GeoAI) which is the integration of AI with Geospatial technology, has further enhanced scope in both the implementation and implantation of Industry 4.0. For example, view a case of the creation of a digital twin of factories along with a simulation of the possible mutual impact of surroundings and industrial areas. Such a development helps in visualising geospatial data in 3D environments for better decision-making.
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