Introduction
In a significant move to advance scientific research and innovation in Pakistan, the National Centre of GIS and Space Applications (NCGSA) launched its flagship Research Fund (RF) program on March 22, 2021, according to the approved PC-1. With a substantial allocation of PKR 200 million, this initiative was designed to support and promote cutting-edge research in the domains of Geographic Information Science(GISc.) and Space Applications.
The primary aim of the Research Fund program is to catalyze the development of innovative, market-oriented, and application-driven research that leverages modern geospatial technologies and space-based tools. Faculty members & Researchers of Higher Education Institutions and Research & Development Organizations of Pakistan were invited to submit proposals focused on the sustainable socio-economic development of Pakistan through Space Science, Technology, and its Applications. Proposals were joint industry-academia projects of a maximum duration of 24 months and a maximum budget of 15 MPKR. The NCGSA Research Fund Program holds strategic importance for Pakistan’s academic, industrial, and national development landscape.
RF Process
The NCGSA Research Fund Program follows a structured and transparent process that begins with a formal call for proposals, inviting faculty and researchers from HEIs and R&D organizations to submit joint academia-industry projects in key domains such as Remote Sensing, Small Satellite Technology, PNT, Space Applications, and Outreach. Proposals must demonstrate innovation, feasibility, societal impact, and potential for commercialization. Following the announcement, proposals are submitted and screened based on predefined selection criteria, including scientific merit, implementation plan, team expertise, and alignment with national priorities. A multi-level review process is conducted involving expert committees, peer reviewers, and industry evaluators, culminating in a final pitching round. After careful evaluation, 13 projects were selected for funding, each receiving up to PKR 15 million over two years, followed by contract signing and milestone-based fund disbursement.
Program Design
Research Fund Projects
This project was undertaken to develop a comprehensive framework for landslide risk reduction through the integration of advanced technologies and methodologies, including InSAR remote sensing, UAV-based surveys, geophysical and geotechnical investigations, numerical modeling, and the implementation of an early warning system.
This project focuses on the development of a high-resolution Nano-g accelerometer for applications in Remote Sensing and GIS, including inertial navigation, earthquake detection and monitoring, seismological studies, seismic surveying, spacecraft guidance, and geophysical sensing.
This project aims to develop an automated toolchain for detecting oil spills using radar and optical satellite imagery acquired from the Sentinel-1 and Sentinel-2 constellations. It will establish a classification framework for oil spill detection and enable pixel-wise multi-label classification.
This project aims to develop a GIS-enabled software tool for the preventive maintenance of distribution system assets. The tool will offer a dynamic visualization of the distribution grid, enabling DISCOs to perform timely system updates and reconfigurations before asset overloading occurs, thereby mitigating the risk of grid failure. By monitoring the utilization of power distribution assets, the GIS-based tool will enhance system reliability, support informed decision-making, and contribute to reducing operational costs for utility providers.
The aim of this project is to develop innovative and cost-effective socio-technical approaches for a smart groundwater monitoring system capable of real-time observation of groundwater depletion. The system will integrate in-situ measurements with data from the Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment (GRACE) satellite mission to accurately estimate groundwater storage depletion at a regional scale. This smart solution will provide high spatial and temporal resolution monitoring to support sustainable water resource management.
In its initial phase, this application aims to identify disease hotspots and subsequently support the control of potential outbreaks. It will further recommend environmental management practices based on the data collected and analyzed, enabling more effective disease prevention and response. Given that this project addresses a critical global health issue, its implementation holds the potential for widespread adoption and significant positive impact.
This project aims to develop a fully indigenous Attitude Determination (AD) system leveraging GNSS signals. The solution will consist of a custom-built FPGA-based hardware module integrated with entirely locally developed onboard software. The system will be designed for seamless installation on both airborne and land-based platforms.
This project aims to develop advanced algorithms for highly accurate target location determination, achieving precision within ±1 meter. The approach will leverage deep neural networks enhanced by Terrain Referenced Navigation (TRN) techniques to improve geolocation accuracy and reliability.
The project aims to develop a machine learning-based time series forecasting algorithm to predict and validate future sunspots and active regions. In addition to forecasting, the algorithm will facilitate the analysis of key physical properties, such as sunspot areas and their evolution across the solar disc, using solar imagery.
Pakistan’s current seismic monitoring capabilities remain limited, highlighting the urgent need to establish a robust geomagnetic monitoring network across the country. The indigenous development of magnetometers would significantly enhance national seismic monitoring capacity, enable comprehensive coverage, and offer valuable insights into earthquake mechanisms.
This Project outlines the development of manufacturing processes for aluminum and composite sandwich panels intended for satellite subsystem components. The primary objective is to optimize a cost-effective and efficient fabrication method through the prototype development of sandwich panels, followed by rigorous testing to demonstrate their space worthiness.
This initiative aims to promote space sciences among the general public—particularly the youth—through a unique and engaging approach. As the first endeavor of its kind in Pakistan, the project will feature a film that blends real data, facts, and scientific information into a fictional narrative, presented in an entertaining and accessible format
This multifaceted project aims to promote awareness of space and particle sciences through three key components: (1) development of instruments to detect cosmic ray muons and neutrons, (2) nationwide roadshows featuring an LHC Interactive Tunnel, and (3) establishment of an astrophysics laboratory for education and research.
Outcomes & Strategic Impact
The Research Fund (RF) initiative has catalyzed substantial progress in advancing Pakistan’s scientific and technological landscape through strategic investments in research infrastructure, innovation, and capacity building. The RF projects have not only strengthened national research capacity but also contributed to data-driven decision-making, technological self-reliance, and societal resilience. Furthermore, outreach efforts and educational programs have deepened public engagement and promoted awareness in the field of space and geospatial technologies.
Program Impact