Pune Set to Host Historic ISPRS GIFTS Summit 2025, Pioneering Geo-Spatial Innovation

Get ready for a landmark event that promises to put Pune firmly on the global map of scientific innovation! In a momentous announcement, the International Society for Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing (ISPRS), in collaboration with Geo-information for Sustainable Development (GIFTS), has chosen Pune, India, as the host city for its first-ever ISPRS GIFTS Summit in March 2025.

This isn't just another conference; it's a historic milestone for India and a testament to Pune's burgeoning reputation as a hub for technology and advanced research.

The summit, organized jointly by the Indian Society of Geomatics (ISG) and the Centre for Spatial Information Science and Technology (CSIST) at Vishwakarma Institute of Information Technology (VIIT) in Pune, marks the first time an Indian city will host such a significant ISPRS event.

The theme for this groundbreaking summit, "Future Earth: Enabling Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through Geo-spatial Technologies," couldn't be more relevant.

In an era where global challenges demand innovative solutions, geo-spatial technologies—from satellite imagery to Geographic Information Systems (GIS)—are proving to be indispensable tools for monitoring, analyzing, and guiding efforts towards a sustainable future.

Prof. Lena Halounova, the esteemed President of ISPRS, underscored the critical role of these technologies, particularly for developing nations.

"Geo-spatial technologies are vital for achieving Sustainable Development Goals," she stated, expressing confidence in India's capacity to lead discussions on this crucial subject. Her words highlight the strategic importance of choosing India, a nation at the forefront of space technology, as the venue.

Dr.

S. K. Singh, President of ISG, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing India's impressive strides in space technology. He noted the immense benefit this summit will offer to students, researchers, and professionals across the country, providing an unparalleled platform for knowledge exchange and collaborative advancement.

The Vishwakarma Institute of Information Technology (VIIT) in Pune is not just hosting; it's deeply invested in the success of this summit.

Dr. S. B. Borgaonkar, Director of VIIT, reaffirmed the institute's commitment to fostering excellence in geo-spatial education and research, seeing the summit as a pivotal opportunity to showcase cutting-edge developments and inspire future generations.

A significant figure behind bringing this prestigious event to Pune is Dr.

S. K. Pathan, an ISPRS Council Member and faculty at VIIT. Dr. Pathan championed Pune as the ideal location, citing its vibrant academic environment, skilled talent pool, and the city's potential to significantly contribute to the global geo-spatial community. His efforts have paved the way for Pune to host an event that promises to be a catalyst for innovation and collaboration.

The ISPRS GIFTS Summit 2025 is more than just a gathering of experts; it's a nexus where brilliant minds will converge to share insights, forge partnerships, and explore revolutionary applications of geo-spatial science.

From climate change monitoring to urban planning, disaster management, and resource optimization, the discussions and outcomes from this summit are expected to have far-reaching implications, helping to sculpt a more sustainable "Future Earth."

For anyone involved in geo-spatial sciences, environmental studies, or sustainable development, this summit presents a unique opportunity to connect with global leaders, witness cutting-edge research, and contribute to solutions that address humanity's most pressing challenges.

Pune is not just hosting an event; it's hosting the future.