Guwahati (Assam) [India], August 23 (ANI): Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW) Sarbananda Sonowal on Saturday announced that the Ministry is exploring the possibility of launching a dedicated satellite or acquiring a transponder to bolster India’s maritime governance and port management infrastructure.
“Our Ministry should plan to launch a satellite of our own or acquire a dedicated transponder for the Indian maritime sector. This will strengthen India’s coastal and port management infrastructure through advanced space-based solutions,” Sonowal said while addressing top officials of the ministry on the occasion of National Space Day.
According to the minister, the proposed system would provide exclusive coverage for Indian coastal waters, inland waterways, and port regions. It would integrate with national maritime databases to enable real-time monitoring of vessel traffic, navigational safety, and port operations.
“This will help enhance vessel traffic monitoring, enable real-time ship tracking across India’s coastline and Exclusive Economic Zone, ensure early identification of congestion, and improve navigational safety. It will also boost preparedness for search-and-rescue operations, pollution control, and disaster management. Moreover, it will reduce dependence on foreign navigation systems and support the Atmanirbhar Bharat vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji,” Sonowal added.
Highlighting India’s recent strides in space technology, Sonowal said the nation has emerged as a global leader in science and innovation. “India has made remarkable progress in science and technology and has built one of the world’s most respected and efficient space programs,” he said.
Recalling milestones in India’s space journey, the Union Minister noted the launch of Aditya-L1 in 2023—India’s first solar observatory to study the sun—and the successful mission of Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, who became the first Indian to complete a mission to the International Space Station. He further mentioned the upcoming Gaganyaan mission and India’s plans to build its own space station.
“Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji, India’s space programme has made remarkable progress in addressing diverse challenges and unlocking new frontiers of opportunity,” Sonowal said, extending his greetings on National Space Day.
He urged the youth of the nation “to reach out not just to the sky but to space.” (ANI)
About The Author
