NEW: Welcome to Indian National Cartographic Association (INCA)
Organisation Overview

India's Apex Body for Cartographic Sciences

The Indian National Cartographic Association (INCA) was founded in 1979, growing from just 79 founding members into one of the largest cartographic organisations in Asia. Today INCA has approximately 3,000 Life Members and 84 Institutional Life Members spanning Central and State Government agencies, defence organisations, research institutions, universities, and private industry.

INCA is affiliated with the International Cartographic Association (ICA) and engages with the UN Committee of Experts on Global Geospatial Information Management (UN-GGIM). INCA is registered under the Societies Registration Act.

Vision, Mission & Values

Vision

To be the leading national body that advances cartographic science and geospatial technology in India, fostering innovation, education, and professional excellence in support of the nation's development.

Mission

To promote cartography and geospatial sciences; facilitate knowledge exchange; publish quality research; conduct national congresses and workshops; and engage young talent through education and competitions.

Core Values

  • Scientific Excellence
  • Professional Integrity
  • National Service
  • Knowledge Sharing
  • International Collaboration

Objectives of INCA

INCA's objectives guide its activities across publication, education, professional development, and national service.

"INCA has evolved into one of the largest cartographic organisations in the field of cartography, with key member organisations including the Survey of India, ISRO, NHO, NRSC, and numerous universities across the country."

— Press Information Bureau, GoI

1
Promote Cartographic ScienceAdvance cartography, GIS, remote sensing, photogrammetry, hydrography, and related geospatial disciplines across India.
2
Publish the Indian Cartographer JournalPublish and disseminate The Indian Cartographer (ISSN: 0972-8392), a peer-reviewed biannual journal.
3
Conduct Annual International CongressOrganise India's premier annual forum for cartographic science featuring technical sessions, workshops, and exhibitions.
4
Facilitate Knowledge ExchangeCreate forums for sharing scientific information among cartographers, GIS professionals, and spatial data scientists.
5
Foster Youth & School EngagementConduct the INCA National Map Quiz for school children and promote geospatial literacy among young Indians.
6
Recognise ExcellenceHonour outstanding contributions through the INCA Gold Medal, Young Cartographer Award, Best Map Award, and Honorary Fellowships.
7
International CollaborationRepresent India at the ICA, participate in UN-GGIM activities, and foster global partnerships.
8
Support Professional DevelopmentOrganise workshops, training programmes, and capacity-building activities in GIS, remote sensing, and geospatial data science.

INCA Branches Across India

INCA has active branches in major cities conducting local events, workshops, and promoting cartographic science.

Bengaluru Branch
Karnataka · ISRO / SOI
Chandigarh Branch
Punjab / Haryana · SOI
Dehradun Branch
Uttarakhand · SOI / NHO
Delhi Branch
National Capital Region
Gujarat Branch
Ahmedabad / Vadodara
Hyderabad Branch
Telangana · NRSC / SOI
Indore Branch
Madhya Pradesh
Jodhpur Branch
Rajasthan
Kerala Branch
Thiruvananthapuram
Kolkata Branch
West Bengal · SOI
Mumbai Branch
Maharashtra · NHO / SOI
Nagpur Branch
Maharashtra · SOI / MRSAC

Awards & Fellowships

INCA Gold Medal

The highest honour, awarded for exceptional and sustained contributions to cartographic science over a distinguished career.

Young Cartographer Award

Recognises outstanding research or professional contribution by young cartographic professionals.

Best Map Award

Awarded for excellence in cartographic design, accuracy, and innovation in map production.

Best Paper Award

Conferred on the author(s) of the best technical paper presented at the Annual INCA International Congress.

Honorary Fellowship

The highest class of INCA membership for individuals who have rendered exceptional service to cartographic sciences.

National Map Quiz Award

Prizes awarded to top-performing students and schools in the INCA National Map Quiz.