Information Society Watch

October 2006, MoneyControl.com

Using the mapping capabilities of Google Earth, farmers in a potential Maharashtra Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in India proved the fertility of their land to authorities who were claming it uncultivable. The Special Economic Zone (SEZ) policy of the Indian government is drawing protests from all corners, particularly from farmers whose land is increasingly earmarked for possession. Using data generated by Google Earth, the Maharashtra farmers have taken a stance for higher compensation from the government for possession, as well as initiating a front against possession itself. The article highlights one of the many ways in which technology is facilitating social processes around the globe.

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