IIT Bhubaneswar Partners with Survey of India to Advance Geo-Spatial Technology
Bhubaneswar, November 27, 2025 — In a significant move aimed at boosting research and innovation in geo-spatial science, the Indian Institute of Technology Bhubaneswar (IIT BBS) and the Survey of India (SoI) have formalized a strategic partnership. The collaboration was cemented on Wednesday with the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) that focuses on advancing geodesy, geo-informatics, mapping technologies, and geospatial research.
Collaboration to Enhance Geo-Spatial Applications
The partnership is set to leverage the combined strengths of both institutions — IIT Bhubaneswar’s expertise in remote sensing, geo-dynamical studies, climate science, and earth sciences, together with the Survey of India’s technical mastery in geospatial sciences and mapping. This strategic alliance aims to foster innovation and develop cutting-edge solutions applicable in various fields.
Geo-spatial technologies play a crucial role in supporting decision-making processes for diverse applications including urban planning, mining, environmental management, digitizing land records, and navigation. “By utilizing satellite data and advanced mapping technologies, we can analyze the Earth’s dynamic topography, maintain accurate land records, and address geographical and earth science challenges,” explained Raj K Singh, Head of the School of Earth, Ocean, and Climate Sciences at IIT Bhubaneswar.
Objectives and Activities Under the MoU
The MoU outlines collaborative efforts such as joint research projects, knowledge sharing, and the organization of workshops, lectures, and conferences. These activities are designed to enhance research capabilities, promote capacity building, and deepen scientific understanding in the realm of geo-spatial technology.
Dinakar Pasla, Professor and Dean of Sponsored Research and Industrial Consultancy at IIT Bhubaneswar, who signed the agreement on behalf of the institute, emphasized the partnership’s potential: “This collaboration is poised to create a dynamic platform for innovation and research, facilitating deeper integration of geospatial technologies across scientific and practical domains.”
From the Survey of India, the agreement was signed by Asish Kausal, Director of the Odisha and Chhattisgarh Geo-Spatial Directorate, cementing a commitment to collective efforts in the geospatial field.
Impact and Future Prospects
This partnership is expected not only to strengthen the academic and research landscape but also to result in practical advancements in geo-spatial solutions. Both institutions are dedicated to advancing India’s standing in scientific research and technological development, particularly in geospatial science — a critical and rapidly evolving discipline.
An official statement released by IIT Bhubaneswar affirmed that this initiative reflects a strong commitment to fostering innovation and harnessing scientific knowledge for societal and developmental benefits.
As geospatial technologies become increasingly integral to governance, environmental conservation, disaster management, and smart city initiatives, such collaborative ventures between premier institutions are vital for harnessing data-driven insights and deploying technology for national progress.
About the Author:
Hrusikesh Mohanty, based in Berhampur, specializes in local news coverage, focusing on agriculture, environment, wildlife, education, health, infrastructure, tribal issues, and socio-political developments.
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