Topic summary

National Hydrographic Office

National Hydrographic Office

The National Hydrographic Office, formerly the Indian Naval Hydrographic Department (INHD), headed by the Chief Hydrographer to the Government of India, is an Indian government agency responsible for hydrographic surveys and nautical charting in India. Its headquarters National Hydrographic Office is located in Dehradun, Uttarakhand beside the Principal Controller of Defense Accounts Office (Air Force). Presently, the department is equipped with seven indigenously built survey ships including a catamaran hull survey vessel (CHSV). The is the training institute to impart knowledge regarding hydrography and to train its personnel. Two more ships are currently being constructed and expected to be commissioned by 2025-26.

The department is also responsible for making electronic navigational charts officially on behalf of the Government of India. The department has also signed memoranda of understanding with various countries for surveying their waters as part of international cooperation.