The International Workshop on Land Governance commenced in Gurugram, Haryana, marking a major step toward global cooperation in land management. Organized by the Ministry of Panchayati Raj in collaboration with the Ministry of External Affairs under the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) programme, the workshop has brought together over 40 senior officials from 22 countries across Africa, Latin America, and South-East Asia. The event, hosted at the Haryana Institute of Public Administration (HIPA), underscores India’s commitment to advancing land governance through technology and knowledge-sharing.
The inaugural session saw the participation of key dignitaries, including Shri Sushil Kumar Lohani, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Panchayati Raj; Shri Viraj Singh, Additional Secretary, Ministry of External Affairs; Shri Alok Prem Nagar, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Panchayati Raj; and Shri Ramesh Chander Bidhan, Director General of HIPA. Their presence reflected the importance India places on building global partnerships to tackle land-related challenges. The workshop aligns with the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who has repeatedly emphasized the role of technology in empowering rural communities and ensuring secure land rights.
Shri Sushil Kumar Lohani highlighted the SVAMITVA Scheme as a transformative model for rural empowerment. He explained that the initiative is much more than a land mapping project—it is a comprehensive effort to secure property rights and unlock economic potential for millions in rural India. With over 3.17 lakh villages mapped across 67,000 sq. km, representing an estimated asset base of Rs.132 lakh crore, SVAMITVA stands as one of the largest rural mapping initiatives globally. Shri Lohani noted that by integrating drone technology with traditional land survey methods, India has achieved unprecedented accuracy and efficiency, setting an example for other nations to follow.
Shri Viraj Singh of the Ministry of External Affairs emphasized that the workshop is a testament to India’s commitment to South-South Cooperation. By bringing together nations facing similar land governance issues, India is fostering a spirit of shared learning and collaboration. He also highlighted the role of the ITEC programme in facilitating such international partnerships, ensuring that best practices are exchanged for mutual benefit.
The first day of the workshop also featured an exhibition showcasing cutting-edge technologies in land governance. Participants were introduced to precision drone mapping, 3D geospatial data analytics, and integrated land administration systems. Government bodies and technology providers displayed advanced surveying equipment, GIS applications, and UAV-based land administration solutions, offering hands-on demonstrations of drone flight planning and high-accuracy surveying techniques. These innovations are expected to revolutionize how land records are maintained and disputes are resolved, especially in regions where outdated land databases pose a challenge.
Beyond the technology, the event also focused on the social and economic impact of land governance. Shri Alok Prem Nagar emphasized how SVAMITVA has contributed to financial inclusion by giving people legal ownership of their property, which in turn enables them to access credit and other financial services. He noted that secure land tenure plays a crucial role in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly those related to poverty reduction and sustainable land use. Shri Smit Shah, President of the Drone Federation of India, provided insights into how policy reforms have allowed India to emerge as a leader in drone-based solutions, further strengthening its position in land governance technology.
The global participation in this workshop highlights the growing recognition of India’s leadership in this field. Delegates from countries such as Turkmenistan, Colombia, Zimbabwe, and Fiji have gathered to share experiences and learn from India’s successes. The six-day event will include technical sessions, field visits, and practical training, allowing participants to gain firsthand experience in drone-based surveying and geospatial data processing. A visit to the Survey of India lab is also scheduled, providing deeper insights into the integration of digital mapping with land administration.
At its core, the workshop is more than just a platform for technical discussions—it is a step toward a future where land rights are secure, rural economies thrive, and technology bridges the gap between policy and on-the-ground implementation. Through initiatives like SVAMITVA, India is demonstrating that with the right tools and collaborative spirit, nations can overcome long-standing land governance challenges and create a more equitable world.
