Guwahati: The 15th edition of the Indo-Pacific GeoIntelligence Forum 2025 was officially inaugurated yesterday by Governor General Dr. Vijay Kumar Singh at Hotel Vivanta, Dwarka, New Delhi. Hosted by Geospatial World, this prestigious event brings together experts and leaders from across the region to discuss the future of geospatial intelligence in the Indo-Pacific.
In his inaugural address, Gen (Dr) VK Singh, a former Indian Army Chief, highlighted the strategic importance of the Indo-Pacific region. “The Indo-Pacific is not only a hub for global trade and economic growth but also a focal point for emerging geopolitical and security challenges,” he said, underlining the region’s critical role in shaping global affairs.
Dr. Singh emphasized that Geospatial technology and GeoIntelligence are essential in addressing these challenges. He explained how these tools help shape strategic decision-making, enhance national security, and foster regional cooperation. With cyber threats on the rise, he stressed the need for safeguarding geospatial data, especially as more GeoIntelligence systems rely on cloud computing and interconnected data servers. “The importance of protecting this data cannot be overstated,” he noted.
The Governor General further added that the Indo-Pacific region is vital to the global economic stability, rich in natural resources, and home to more than half of the world’s population. Recognizing these facts, he advocated for the adoption of next-generation GeoIntelligence tools, including Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, and Spatial Computing. These advanced technologies, he argued, are key to ensuring regional stability and security.
During the ceremony, several distinguished leaders also shared their insights. Lt Gen AKS Chandele, PVSM, AVSM (Retd), President of Defence, Internal Security & Public Safety at Geospatial World, delivered the welcome address, while Lt Gen Vinod G Khandare, PVSM, AVSM, SM, Principal Advisor, Ministry of Defence, also contributed to the discussions. Other notable speakers included Shri Adam Reedy, International Government Sales Manager at Esri, and Vice Admiral Tarun Sobti, AVSM, VSM, Deputy Chief of Naval Staff of the Indian Navy.
The event kicked off with the inauguration of a cutting-edge exhibition showcasing the latest developments in defense technology and GeoIntelligence tools. The forum’s discussions are centered around this year’s theme, “NextGen Sovereign GeoIntelligence Assets for Regional Security,” and aim to explore how emerging technologies can help address challenges in the region.
In his concluding remarks, Sanjay Kumar, Founder and CEO of Geospatial World, delivered a vote of thanks, marking the end of the inaugural session. The forum, set to conclude today, will continue to feature specialized sessions by experts on defense technology, intelligence applications, and the role of GeoIntelligence in shaping security strategies.
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