Union Minister of State for Science and Technology Dr. Jitendra Singh said the North Eastern Space Applications Centre (NESAC) is playing a key role in supporting national security and driving socio-economic development across the Northeastern states through the use of space technology.
During his visit to NESAC at Umiam in Meghalaya, the Minister said the Centre is currently carrying out geospatial mapping of the India-Myanmar border as well as inter-state boundaries in the Northeast. He added that these initiatives are contributing to improved border management while supporting development planning in the region.
Dr. Jitendra Singh reviewed NESAC’s ongoing work in sectors such as agriculture, disaster management, natural resource management, water resources, governance and urban planning. According to officials, the Centre is implementing nearly 130 space application projects, including around 50 completed and 78 ongoing initiatives across the eight Northeastern states.
The Minister praised NESAC for converting advanced space technologies into practical solutions that assist state governments in planning, resource management and public service delivery. He said the Centre has become an important link between scientific innovation and regional development.
He also called for closer coordination between NESAC, the North East Cane and Bamboo Development Council (NECBDC) and state governments to expand bamboo resource mapping. He said scientific mapping would strengthen the bamboo industry, improve resource planning and create sustainable livelihood opportunities for local communities.
Emphasising disaster preparedness, Dr. Jitendra Singh urged the Centre to further improve the accuracy of its flood early warning system so that vulnerable communities receive timely alerts. He also encouraged wider adoption of successful water conservation models across the region to enhance long-term water security.
Highlighting the strategic importance of geospatial technology, the Minister said NESAC should continue supporting national priorities in border areas while working closely with relevant agencies. He also recommended strengthening the GeoTourism ‘ManzilNE’ dashboard by increasing participation from the private tourism sector to promote the Northeast’s natural beauty, biodiversity and cultural heritage.
Dr. Jitendra Singh further urged the Centre to deepen collaboration with central ministries, state governments, research institutions, academic organisations, start-ups and private industry to accelerate the use of space-based applications across multiple sectors.
He expressed confidence that NESAC will continue to play a significant role in strengthening governance, improving disaster resilience, promoting sustainable resource management and supporting the vision of a technologically advanced and prosperous Northeast.
