Geo-Tagging Unveiled: UPSC Perspectives

Description

GEO-TAGGING

Disclaimer: Copyright infringement not intended.

Context

Delhi’s property geo-tagging deadline has been extended.

Geo-Tagging

Geo-tagging involves assigning geographical coordinates (latitude, longitude) to various types of media based on the location of a mobile device.
Application: Photos, videos, websites, text messages, and QR codes can be geotagged, including time stamps and contextual information.
Smartphone Integration: Devices equipped with GPS or location-based technologies automatically geotag photos.

Mechanism of Geo-Tagging:

GPS Integration: Modern smartphones and digital cameras are equipped with GPS (Global Positioning System) or utilize other location-based technologies.
Automatic Geo-Tagging: Devices automatically associate GPS coordinates with media, such as photos, by default.

Geo-Tagging of Properties:

Digital Mapping: In the context of properties, geo-tagging involves digitally mapping a property with unique latitude and longitude coordinates.
Geographic Information System (GIS): GIS is utilized to create maps with precise property locations.

Significance and Benefits:

Tax Collection Enhancement: Geo-tagging properties aids in distinguishing between tax-paying and non-tax-paying entities, reducing tax evasion.
Urban Planning Support: Identification of illegal properties supports urban planning efforts.
Service Streamlining: Geo-tagging assists in streamlining essential services like sanitation and road repairs in specific areas.
Efficient Service Delivery: Enables recognition of area-based residential needs, leading to more efficient service delivery.

Challenges and Concerns:

Technical Challenges: Residents, especially senior citizens, may face difficulties in self-geo-tagging properties.
Awareness Issues: Lack of awareness campaigns and information dissemination about the geo-tagging process.
Skepticism: Some residents express doubts about the benefits of geo-tagging and concerns about government notice.
Technical Issues with Portals: Complaints about technical problems with property tax payment portals and apps.

Property Geo-Tagging in Delhi:

Digital Mapping: Refers to digitally mapping a property with permanent latitude and longitude coordinates using Geographic Information System (GIS).
Municipal Corporation's Perspective: Officials emphasize several benefits, including enhanced tax collection potential, identification of illegal properties, and support for urban planning.

PRACTICE QUESTION

Q. Geotagging, as applied in technology, involves the allocation of geographic coordinates to various types of media. What is the primary technology utilized for automatic geotagging in most smartphones and digital cameras?

A. RFID (Radio-Frequency Identification)

B. NFC (Near Field Communication)

C. GPS (Global Positioning System)

D. QR Code (Quick Response Code)

Answer: C. GPS (Global Positioning System)

Explanation:

Geotagging is the process of assigning geographic coordinates to media, such as photos or videos, based on the location of a mobile device. In the context of smartphones and digital cameras, the most common technology used for automatic geotagging is GPS (Global Positioning System).

GPS is a satellite-based navigation system that provides accurate location and time information to a GPS receiver. Most modern smartphones and digital cameras come equipped with GPS technology, allowing them to automatically capture and embed geographical coordinates (latitude and longitude) in the metadata of photos or other media.

This feature enables users to associate a specific location with their images, providing context and additional information. In the case of geotagging properties, the technology helps map a property with unique and permanent coordinates, facilitating various applications such as urban planning, tax collection, and emergency response.