This paper published in Proceedings of the World Congress on Engineering sheds light on the importance of using Mobile GIS in collection of data in rural Maharashtra. With the application of this technology the realities of the field quickly reach the desk of decision makers who in turn make policies that ultimately affect the bottom line of the society.

The paper first spells out the definition of specific terms, the functional components of GIS, the application of GIS for various purposes by different institutions. It then moves on to elaborate the pivotal role played by GIS, which gives current, accurate, reliable data as quickly as possible.

The paper points at paucity of information on rural areas in Maharashtra and the need to fill in the gap so that proper policies are made on time. A proposal is been made by the authors, whereby mobile GIS is used for a faster development and growth of rural areas. With a basic training in computer to the local staff this can be easily achieved. The authors elaborate on the issues that should be taken care of while collecting critical data from the field and also how useful it would be when applied in collecting information about water and related issues. The future of mobile GIS and field force digitisation are also discussed in the paper.

Finally the authors recommend the application of mobile GIS for a speedy development process, which will benefit the rural areas of Maharashtra.

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