GeodCon-26 Context: GeodCon-26 is the first national conference in India dedicated to geodesy, organised to deliberate on recent scientific progress in geospatial science. The conference took place at the Indian National Science Academy (INSA) in New Delhi. Geodesy Geodesy is the scientific discipline that studies the Earth’s shape, dimensions, gravitational field, and accurate positioning on its surface. It forms the fundamental scientific basis for cartography, satellite navigation, and geographic positioning systems. Geodesy plays a crucial role in planning infrastructure, managing disasters, monitoring climate changes, and ensuring national security. Precise geodetic measurements are essential for satellite-based navigation systems such as NavIC and Global Positioning System (GPS), along with other satellite technologies. Geodesy acts as the core scientific backbone of the geospatial ecosystem, enabling accurate Earth observation and spatial data interpretation. National Geospatial Policy 2022 The policy aims to boost India’s geospatial sector by enhancing accessibility to geospatial data and encouraging technological innovation. It makes geospatial information more open and accessible, allowing government bodies, private firms, researchers, and citizens to use such data more freely. The policy encourages greater involvement of private companies and startups in developing geospatial technologies and services. Geospatial data enabled by the policy supports infrastructure development, urban planning, disaster response, and national security initiatives. Digital Twin system Context: The V.O. Chidambaranar Port Authority in Tamil Nadu has become India’s first major port to introduce a Digital Twin system. A Digital Twin refers to a real-time virtual representation of a physical asset, infrastructure, or system, allowing continuous monitoring and analysis. The platform combines information from multiple technologies such as IoT sensors, GPS tracking systems, LiDAR mapping, drone surveillance, and CCTV networks to build an interactive digital model of the port. This system enables real-time tracking and visualisation of port operations, including berth availability, ship movements, crane operations, and…
