Dinesh Kamath's Editorial 'ISRO once again proves its scientific prowess' that was published in Newsband

ISRO once again proves its scientific prowess

Indian Space Research Organisation’s Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV-F09) carrying the GSAT-9 or the “South Asia” satellite took off at 4:57 pm on Friday. The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) proved its scientific prowess by launching the GSAT-9 ‘South Asia satellite’. It was Prime Minister Narendra Modi who had challenged ISRO scientists to build this satellite for the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC).

The project cost about ₹450 crore. All SAARC leaders (with the exception of Pakistan’s) spoke of the benefits they would receive in communication, telemedicine, meteorological forecasting and broadcasting.

Where India does excel is in its space programme, as it is the only country in South Asia that has independently launched satellites on indigenously developed launch vehicles. The satellite is intended to serve “economic and developmental priorities” of South Asian nations. The satellite will enable telecommunication, tele-education and tele-medicine as well as mapping of natural resources. It will also provide/augment internet connectivity and will be useful in disaster management.

The South Asia satellite will go a long way in addressing the region’s economic and developmental priorities. PM Modi says GSAT-9 launch will result in cooperation not conflict, development not destruction. This satellite will prove to be a boon in the progress of the entire region.

The next satellite with electric power will be the GSAT-20 slated for launch in 2018.

Thus India continues to prove itself in space science. This is yet another feat of ISRO. Sharing development by providing benefit free of cost to neighboring countries will go long way in building equity with neighbours. This satellite will help broaden our knowledge about earth more and it will give us a comprehensive view of the rich resources

India is aggressively speeding its rocket, missile space technology along with nuclear TRIAD to be a strong potent power in Asia to be reckoned. Gone are its past hesitancy and tendency of playing second fiddle to China.

The South Asian satellite is bound to be appreciated by all countries of the region who will benefit from this.