Space Tech Boosting Key Government Initiatives: Jitendra Singh in Lok Sabha

Quick Summary

• Utilization of Space-based Inputs: Union Minister Jitendra Singh stated that space technologies are being employed to support government initiatives like Digital India, Smart Cities Mission, and Forecasting Agricultural Output.
• geoportal Contributions:

– Bhuvan Geoportal and Aadhaar databases are aiding Digital India and the geocoded postal address system.
– Rooftop photovoltaic assessments for solar cities in smart city missions have been conducted.

• Programs Involved:

– FASAL: Remote sensing for crop acreage estimates and production forecasting (11 crops).- CHAMAN: Horticulture acreage/production estimation (7 crops) with plans for expansion and infrastructure post-harvest.
– MGNREGA: Geospatial tech aids asset monitoring/planning activities.
– PMGSY & PMFBY: Satellite data optimizes rural road growth, crop damage assessment, claim settlement processes for farmers under insurance schemes.

• Global Space Institute Proposal:

– Proposed by the Department of Space to provide integrated education on space technology/policies/exploration aimed at advancing India’s space economy.
– Expected partnerships with academic institutions, industries, government agencies globally to boost start-ups, commercial space ventures.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The use of space-based technologies as outlined by Union Minister Jitendra Singh showcases India’s commitment to employing modern scientific advancements for societal benefit. From agriculture forecasting under FASAL to urban planning through AMRUT’s geospatial database creation, integrating satellite-driven insights into governance could enhance efficiency across multiple flagship programs. The proposed Global Space Institute appears poised to foster innovation within the country’s evolving private aerospace sector while providing educational groundwork toward a vibrant domestic space economy.

This synthesis highlights both a focus on direct welfare impacts-such as facilitating rural asset monitoring or aiding farmers-and aspirations toward global engagement in space exploration.These developments could position India strategically amidst growing international interest in commercializing outer-space activities.

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