Technology
Abstract
An implementation model for NSDI in India
A. Deva Kumar Varma
Add. : IT Department, Qatar Petroleum, Doha, Qatar.
E-Mail : dkvarma@hotmail.com
Abstract
The use of Geographical Information Systems (GIS) has a short history in our country. GIS began as a simple map production tool at the beginning of the last decade. But, within the last few years its application has exploded to encompass a wide range of activities and today many are already speculating its impact on our society. Recognizing the future potential of this technology for national growth it is imperative to stream line its development in our country.
The idea of setting up a National Spatial Data Infrastructure (NSDI) has already been mooted and is under national debate, attracting much attention amongst the tentatively identified agencies and workgroups. Considerable expertise is called for to set up an NSDI and is not the same as using GIS. Also, careful and apolitical considerations are required while formulating vision, organization, and, standards the three pillars that hold NSDI. This paper attempts to provide a model framework for an NSDI and to bring into focus the responsibility to cater to a wider audience touching any / all aspects of national progress rather than a restricted view of the technology’s application sectors. The model is based on the premise that the spatial database is both a national resource and an asset that needs to be professionally and purposefully managed.
The suggested model utilizes the producer – consumer model to describe the relationship between end users and the different agencies that produce data for sharing. Producers are further classified into two groups owners and custodians based on their role in spatial data management. Owners are defined as those really responsible for all aspects of the data, while custodians are those delegated with the responsibility of maintaining the data in its present state for sharing. Consumers, users of data, are the main stay of NSDI. Any organizational structure proposed for implementing NSDI should have the mechanism to gauge and, respond to their requirements. NSDI, therefore, needs to be proactive, reactive and, dynamic. A three tier organizational structure, consisting of a Spatial Data Commission, a GIS Group / Department and, a Business Committee, is envisaged for the suggested NSDI model. This simple structure is expected to reduce complexity and introduce transparency.
The envisaged GIS Group will have members with a background in implementing large enterprise GIS systems preferably involving cross functional, or interdisciplinary, groups or departments. This Group will be entrusted with the responsibility of implementing the NSDI. Since the Group could handle sensitive national data / information they may be formed by the Central Government, ideally, as a separate Department. Once set up, the Group will enforce standards, develop appropriate data models, define the roles and responsibilities of each producer groups, and, provide the interface for consumers. Representatives from this group will be represented in the Planning Commission as well. Ideally, NSDI will address the user needs of all sectors including utilities and urban planning, and, development / management.
Business Committee will be responsible for coordinating with the producers for the collection and
sharing of spatial data. Its members include representatives drawn from the GIS Group and the producers. The Spatial Data Commission will be a body primarily entrusted with formulating policy matters and to resolve interdepartmental issues, if any. Its members include representatives from the Government, GIS group and the producers. NSDI activities at the State level will be coordinated through Data Centers set up at all the State capitals and managed by the GIS group.
The suggested model has many advantageous. Standards and data are professionally managed. Consumers need to deal with a single entity for their data needs though their requirements may in reality relate to one, or more than one, custodians or owners. Due to the direct control of the Government data sensitivity and security can be easily managed and enforced as needed by the Government. Organizational structure is very simple and easy to implement and govern.