Latest news with #INSAT
Mint
03-07-2025
- Climate
- Mint
IMD to buy two Isro satellites to help improve weather forecast
New Delhi: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) plans to ask the Indian Space Research Organisation (Isro) to build and launch two-fourth generation INSAT series satellites, helping improve the accuracy of its weather forecasting. These new satellites will replace IMD's two third-generation INSAT satellites by 2028-29 and at cost of ₹ 1,800 crore, said IMD director general Mrutyunjay Mohapatra in an interview. The upgraded satellites will give a better resolution of images and be equipped with state-of-the-art sensors for lightning forecasting, said Mohapatra. As many as 162 people were killed by lightning strikes in March and April. Mohapatra said, "In remote areas like oceans, hills, the Himalayas and polar regions, one cannot take observations by putting up the instruments. So, here the department goes for the remote sensing instruments like radars and satellites. 'Radars have limitations because a radar can cover only up to 500 kilometers at any particular place and you cannot put radar in the sea or hill peaks where you do not have any communication system or roads or water. So therefore, a satellite becomes very handy though its accuracy is less as compared to the ground truth and radars.' IMD has been using satellite technology extensively for weather monitoring and forecasting. This started with the use of photographs from Television Infrared Observation Satellites (TIROS-1) launched by the US in 1960. The two satellites currently used by IMD have a one-kilometer in visible range and 4 km infrared range. 'Then we have cascaded these two satellites so that every 15 minutes you get an image. The satellite is geostationary. Apart from this there are other sensors in the satellite which provide other information like say winds and humidity, water vapour you can say. So, these information's we get it from our own satellites,' IMD also gets data from European, Japanese and Korean satellites. According to him, there is a cooperation among the countries that is called coordinated group of meteorological satellites. However, there are still gaps in detecting small-scale weather events, such as cloudbursts, thunderstorms, and lightning due to a lack of high-resolution data, products, and satellite-based tools. "Considering this, Isro would be developing INSAT-4 series with better sensors and resolution," said Mohapatra. The assimilation of satellite data in the models has improved the accuracy in short to medium range forecasting by about 20% to 30%, according to IMD.
Time of India
25-05-2025
- Climate
- Time of India
IMD restricts access to weather data over fear of cyber attack
1 2 Hyderabad: In response to potential cyber threats emerging after recent escalation in India-Pakistan tensions, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has initiated major cyber security upgrades, including installation of firewalls and a password-based access system, to protect its core weather data platforms. This was done following suspicious data access attempts from IP addresses in Pakistan and Afghanistan, officials said. "So far, IMD websites and databases were accessed by many without any security measures. Due to recent situations of cyber threats from outside the country, it was decided to install firewalls and also user ID password-based access to restricted individuals. This can help prevent cyber attacks," IMD, Hyderabad, director Dr K Nagaratna, said As part of these security measures, access to data from automatic weather stations (AWS) and RAPID (real-time analysis of product and information dissemination) has been restricted. RAPID is a web-based tool used for visualising and analysing Indian National Satellite (INSAT) system data, crucial for weather event identification. The decision has drawn concern from weather bloggers and independent meteorologists, who regularly use IMD tools for real-time updates. Balaji T, popularly known as Telangana Weatherman, said, "IMD has now restricted access to AWS and RAPID. This was so useful for weather enthusiasts and bloggers." by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Giao dịch vàng CFDs với sàn môi giới tin cậy IC Markets Tìm hiểu thêm Undo Describing the AWS system, he said it includes remote stations, telemetry, and Earth receiving stations, equipped to measure temperature, humidity, pressure, rainfall, wind, solar radiation, and soil metrics. "RADAR of IMD is still accessible. We don't know when it will go off. We, as weather enthusiasts, feel that giving access to this data will not be an issue of cyber security. We use ground observations and international models. It will be difficult for young weather enthusiasts. They have to now depend on international data," he added. Balaji also pointed out that in many countries, weather data was treated as open data. "Worldwide, weather data is liberalised, making it open data. India is going in reverse," he said. S Sai Kiran, Vizag Weatherman, said: "We rely primarily on weather models from European and US-based sources. We have used AWS and RAPID only a few times. Additionally, we refer to data from Telangana and Andhra Pradesh State Development Planning Society portals. For other regions in India, we largely depend on data from IMD and now it is inaccessible. For radar information, we continue to use IMD's doppler radar system, which is still available. "
India.com
07-05-2025
- Science
- India.com
India's Orbital Arsenal: Operation Sindoor's Secret to Success
On May 7, 2025, India carried out a bold military strike called 'Operation Sindoor,' targeting terrorist bases in response to a grave security threat, much like the one seen in Pahalgam. This precise operation highlights not just India's military strength but also the critical role of its space assets, managed by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). Far beyond their scientific roots, these satellites and systems are now vital for India's security, diplomacy, and global standing. In the wake of such an operation, India's space programme proves to be a game-changer, ensuring the nation stays vigilant and strong. ISRO has built a world-class space programme, with over 120 satellites launched since 1975 and around 55 active ones today. These include the Indian National Satellite System (INSAT) and GSAT for communication, Indian Remote Sensing (IRS) satellites for earth observation, and the Navigation with Indian Constellation (NavIC) for independent positioning. Originally designed for civilian use, these assets are now crucial for military operations and would have played a key role in 'Operation Sindoor.' Their importance only grows in the post-operation phase, shaping India's response to any challenges. The IRS satellites, India's eyes in the sky, are equipped with high-resolution cameras and radar imaging. During 'Operation Sindoor,' they likely provided detailed images of target areas, helping plan the mission with precision. After the operation, these satellites would keep watch on the region, tracking any troop movements or rebuilding efforts by adversaries. With satellites like Cartosat-2E (offering 0.6-meter resolution) and RISAT-2BR1 (working in all weather), India has a powerful, independent surveillance system. NavIC, India's answer to GPS, is another cornerstone. Covering India and 1,500 km beyond, it provides accurate positioning and timing. In 'Operation Sindoor,' NavIC would have guided assets to their targets with pinpoint accuracy. Post-operation, it would support border monitoring and troop coordination, proving its worth as a reliable national security tool, especially when global systems might not be accessible. The INSAT and GSAT satellites ensure secure, real-time communication. During the operation, they would have connected military units, command centres, and leaders seamlessly. Afterwards, they could help share India's side of the story globally through broadcasts or support diplomacy. They also enable telemedicine and emergency communication, preparing India for any escalation. Beyond security, India's space assets strengthen its global image. An operation like 'Operation Sindoor' would draw worldwide attention, and India's ability to use advanced space technology showcases its progress. ISRO's success in launching over 400 foreign satellites has made India a trusted partner. Sharing satellite data could build stronger alliances, enhancing India's diplomatic reach. India's space programme also reflects its commitment to self-reliance, a value echoed in 'Operation Sindoor.' ISRO's home-grown launch vehicles, like the PSLV and GSLV, ensure India can deploy satellites without depending on others. Successes like Chandrayaan-3 and Aditya-L1 boost national pride and inspire young Indians to pursue science and technology. However, challenges remain. India must protect its satellites from threats like cyber-attacks or anti-satellite weapons, involve the private sector to speed up innovation, and expand its military satellite fleet. Reports suggest plans for 52 dedicated military satellites by 2030, a step in the right direction. In conclusion, India's space assets are the backbone of its security and global standing in the aftermath of 'Operation Sindoor.' From real-time intelligence to precise navigation and secure communication, satellites like IRS, NavIC, and GSAT are force multipliers. They also empower civilians with better connectivity, disaster alerts, and navigation tools. As tensions linger in this scenario, ISRO's satellites stand as India's silent sentinels, watching over the nation. By investing in its space programme, India can cement its place as a global space leader, ready to face any challenge. Key Facts on India's Space Assets: – Active Satellites: ~55, including 18 communication (e.g., GSAT-7 for Navy, GSAT-7A for Air Force), 20 earth observation (e.g., Cartosat, RISAT), 9 NavIC navigation, and 8 scientific satellites. – Military Role: ~15 satellites support defence, with plans for 52 by 2030. In 'Operation Sindoor,' they provided imagery, navigation, and communication. – Civilian Benefits: Improved internet, telemedicine, disaster alerts, and navigation for citizens. – Future Plans: 100–150 more satellites by 2028 for better surveillance and connectivity. – Public Pride: ISRO's cost-effective missions and self-reliance inspire young Indians in STEM. ——- E.O.M (Girish Linganna is a Defence, Aerospace & Geopolitical Analyst based in Bengaluru. He is also Director of ADD Engineering Components India Pvt. Ltd., a subsidiary of ADD Engineering GmbH, Germany. Contact: girishlinganna@ )
Time of India
03-05-2025
- Politics
- Time of India
HC quashes termination of 15 employees of closed SIET
Cuttack: Orissa high court has quashed the order of disengagement of 15 employees issued with the closure of State Institute of Educational Technology (SIET) on April 29, 2013. In a recent order, Justice Sashikanta Mishra directed the state authorities "to adjust the petitioners against available vacancies in any department/directorate of the state govt granting them continuity of service and other service benefits". "Necessary orders in this regard should be passed within three months from the date of communication of this judgment or production of certified copy thereof," Justice Mishra added. According to case records, the govt initiated the 'Educational Television' programme, commonly known as ETV, under direct control of the State Council for Educational Research and Training (SCERT) in 1980. State govt conferred it autonomous status and renamed it as SIET on Jan 1, 1990 on suggestion of the Centre. Prior to the formation of SIET, the Centre had sanctioned the creation of 120 posts. Subsequently, the state govt created 118 posts under the INSAT scheme at different times. However, state govt declared SIET as defunct/closed on April 29, 2013. The batch of petitions were filed on May 7, 2013. Senior advocates Jagannath Patnaik and Tarunkanta Pattnayak argued on behalf of the petitioners. The disengagement was highly discriminatory since 63 other employees of SIET were relocated in various govt departments by treating them to be on deputation, it was argued. Disposing of the petitions on April 25, Justice Mishra held that the petitioners having been appointed against substantive posts created by the govt after Jan 1, 1990 and continuing in service for more than two decades, cannot be disengaged by treating them differently than employees appointed earlier. "The attempt of the state to distinguish the petitioners from the 63 employees, if permitted, would entail creation of a class within a class, which cannot be countenanced in law," Justice Mishra ruled. "The petitioners and the 63 employees stand on the same footing except for the condition of their appointment being co-terminus with the scheme. If the 63 employees were adjusted against different posts by applying the legal fiction of deputation, there is no reason why the petitioners should also not be appointed in similar fashion," Justice Mishra observed. State govt had stated though 118 posts were created between 1983-1988, only 63 employees were duly recruited by Dec 31,1989 and were treated as govt employees. Employees engaged after Jan 1, 1990 were treated as autonomous employees as their engagement was temporary and subject to continuance of the scheme. Therefore, there is no question of any discrimination. The 63 employees appointed against sanctioned posts were repatriated and accommodated in different posts as their continuance was not dependent on the central scheme. Rather, they were appointed against posts created and sanctioned prior to grant of autonomous status to SIET on Jan 1, 1990. Therefore, the petitioners cannot claim any parity with these 63 employees, state govt had contended.
The Hindu
25-04-2025
- Politics
- The Hindu
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu mourns Kasturirangan's demise, extols his contributions to Indian space programmes
Condolences poured in from across political parties over the demise of K. Kasturirangan, former Chairman of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), on Friday. Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, in a post on X, said Dr. Kasturirangan was a scientist par excellence. As ISRO Chairman, he had successfully steered India's space programmes for nine years, leaving an indelible mark on the field. His contributions extended beyond space science. Dr. Kasturirangan, as an educationist, was pivotal in formulating the National Education Policy (NEP)-2020, shaping the future of learning in India. A highly decorated scientist and Padma Vibhushan awardee, Dr. Kasturirangan had defined India's most ambitious space-based High Energy Astronomy Observatory, a milestone under his leadership, he said, adding, 'His passing is a huge loss to the nation and the global scientific community. I pray for his noble soul to rest in peace, and extend my deepest condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues.' HRD Minister Nara Lokesh, in a message on X, said he was deeply saddened by the passing of 'Padma Vibhushan Dr. Kasturirangan Garu — a towering figure in India's space journey and education reform.' Dr. Kasturirangan led ISRO during a transformative era, launching world-class satellites like IRS-1C/1D and INSAT, helping place India among the top space-faring nations. His vision also shaped NEP-2020 and the new National Curriculum Framework. Heartfelt condolences to his family, he said. YSRCP president Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy, in a post on X, said he was deeply saddened to learn about the passing of Dr. Kasturirangan, an eminent scientist, visionary educator, and passionate environmentalist. Dr. Kasturirangan leaves an indelible mark on the annals of India's space history. 'My tributes to this legend. May his soul rest in peace,' he said.
