ISRO Chairman Highlights Role of Satellites in National Security, Development, and Disaster Management During Visit to Tripura
In a detailed and insightful address during the fifth convocation ceremony of the Central Agricultural University near Agartala in Tripura on Sunday,
Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) Chairman V. Narayanan emphasized the pivotal role satellites play in safeguarding the nation, empowering citizens, and enabling sustainable development across multiple sectors.
His remarks come in the wake of a significant geopolitical development — the recent launch of Operation Sindoor, which has reportedly led to a de-escalation in tensions between India and Pakistan.
Narayanan informed the gathering that ten dedicated satellites are currently operating 24/7 to ensure the safety, security, and surveillance of India’s vast geographical expanse and its population.
These satellites, he stated, form an invisible yet powerful shield in space, constantly monitoring various aspects that are crucial to national interest, including defense, disaster alerts, climate change, and border vigilance.
“If we want to keep our nation secure, especially given our vast and diverse geography, satellite technology is essential,” said the ISRO chief.
“For instance, India’s seashore stretches across approximately 7,000 kilometers. Monitoring such an expansive coastline using conventional methods alone is neither feasible nor efficient. Satellite and drone technologies offer real-time, wide-area coverage that is critical to both prevention and response efforts.”
Multisectoral Impact of Satellites
Narayanan elaborated that ISRO’s advancements are not limited to defense and surveillance. The reach of India’s space program now extends deeply into the lives of ordinary citizens and touches sectors that include television broadcasting, meteorological forecasting, environmental monitoring, agriculture, telemedicine, tele-education, food distribution, and public security.
“ISRO’s satellites have become vital tools for development. Farmers receive weather updates and crop-related information, students in remote areas are gaining access to education, and timely disaster warnings are saving lives,” he explained.
Advancements in Disaster Management
Highlighting the transformation in disaster response capabilities, Narayanan pointed out how India has moved from being reactive to proactive in managing natural calamities.
“There was a time when natural disasters claimed thousands of lives due to the lack of advanced warning systems. Now, our satellites provide early alerts, allowing authorities and communities to take timely action,” he said.
“The death toll in such events has significantly reduced, thanks in large part to satellite-based monitoring and communication systems.”
ISRO’s Journey and Global Contributions
Reflecting on India’s progress in space technology, the ISRO chairman recalled that the country did not possess any indigenous satellite capability until the launch of Aryabhata, the first Indian satellite, in 1975.
“For nearly 70 years, India trailed behind advanced spacefaring nations. However, in recent decades, we have not only caught up but have also become a global leader in several domains of space exploration and satellite deployment,” he said.
He proudly noted that India has launched a total of 433 satellites for 34 foreign countries, affirming the global trust in India’s space infrastructure and ISRO’s capabilities.
“We have built satellites for the G20 nations that are being used for climate change monitoring and other global concerns. Our partnerships reflect India’s growing role in international collaborations.”
One of the most ambitious projects in the pipeline, he revealed, is the construction of a highly advanced and expensive Earth-imaging satellite, which will be developed jointly by India and the United States.
The satellite is expected to offer unparalleled imaging capabilities and will be launched from Indian soil — a testament to ISRO’s robust launch infrastructure and growing reputation.
Moon Missions and Scientific Breakthroughs
The ISRO chief also touched upon India’s achievements in lunar exploration. He said that Chandrayaan-1, India’s first Moon mission, marked a watershed moment in space science.
“It was through Chandrayaan-1 that India became the first country to discover evidence of water molecules on the Moon’s surface.
This finding redefined the global understanding of lunar geology and established India as a serious scientific contender in deep space exploration.”
Focus on the Northeastern Region
Acknowledging the unique developmental challenges and opportunities in India’s Northeastern states, Narayanan said that several ISRO satellites are being used to implement projects tailored to the region’s needs, including agriculture, infrastructure, education, and natural resource management.
The region’s diverse terrain and strategic location make it an important focus area for satellite-driven initiatives.
In a significant outreach initiative aimed at inspiring young minds, the ISRO chairman announced that around 100 science students from each of the Northeastern states will soon have the opportunity to visit ISRO’s facilities in Bengaluru.
This initiative is designed to build awareness, foster curiosity, and encourage youth to pursue careers in science and technology.
A Call to Future Generations
In his closing remarks, Narayanan addressed the graduating students with a heartfelt message of inspiration and responsibility. He urged them to cultivate qualities of self-motivation, confidence, leadership, and social commitment.
“Hard work and smart work have no alternatives. While academic success is important, students must also strive to become good human beings.
The values of integrity, empathy, and leadership are essential not just for individual success but also for contributing to the nation,” he said. “Give back to society what you’ve received. That is the true measure of success.”
The event concluded with applause and appreciation for Narayanan’s visionary insights and the significant role ISRO continues to play in transforming India into a technologically empowered and globally respected nation.
