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GS Paper: GS3-16.Achievements of Indians in Science & Technology

  • What are Hydrothermal Vents?

    Why in the News?

    • Indian oceanographers have captured the first-ever image of an active hydrothermal vent located 4,500 metres below the surface of the Indian Ocean.
      • This discovery is part of India’s Deep Ocean Mission under the Ministry of Earth Sciences, with a total outlay of ₹4,000 crore.

    What are Hydrothermal Vents?

    • Hydrothermal vents are typically found near tectonic plates, where cold water (about 2°C) near the ocean floor mixes with magma, leading to superheated water (up to 370°C) that emerges through chimneys.
    • These vents release mineral-rich plumes, including metals like copper, zinc, gold, silver, platinum, iron, cobalt, and nickel, making them significant for mineral exploration.

    Mineral Potential of Hydrothermal Vents:

    • Hydrothermal vent deposits are rich in valuable minerals such as copper, zinc, gold, silver, and nickel, which are highly sought after for various industries.
    • These vents can remain active for periods ranging from a few hundred years to 30,000 years, making them long-lasting and crucial for mineral exploration.
    • Scientists at NCPOR, confirmed that the image showed an active vent chimney with black smokers, and signs of chemosynthetic organisms thriving in this extreme environment.
      • This discovery enhances India’s Deep Ocean Mission, particularly the Samudrayaan mission, which focuses on mineral exploration from inactive hydrothermal vents.

    About the Hydrothermal Exploration Programme by NCPOR:

    Details
    • A scientific initiative by the National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR) to explore hydrothermal vents in the Indian Ocean, focusing on the Central and Southwest Indian Ridges.
    • Aimed at mineral exploration and studying ecosystems around hydrothermal vents.
    Aims and Objectives
    • Locate and Study Hydrothermal Vents: Identify active vents with minerals like copper, zinc, gold, and nickel.
    • Mineral Exploration: Part of India’s Deep Ocean Mission, aiming at valuable mineral exploration such as cobalt and platinum.
    • Biodiversity Studies: Understand chemosynthetic organisms that thrive in extreme conditions of the vents.
    Key Features of the Programme
    • Geophysical Surveys: Conducted since 2012 to detect temperature anomalies and turbidity in the water columns for locating vent fields.
    • Use of Advanced Technology: Utilizes Automatic Underwater Vehicles (AUVs) and high-resolution imaging.
    • Collaborations: Partners with the National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT) for exploration in the Southern Indian Ocean.

     

    About the Deep Ocean Mission (DOM):

    • DOM is an ambitious initiative by the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES) approved in 2021 to develop technologies for deep-sea exploration.
    • Part of the 9 missions under the Prime Minister’s Science, Technology, and Innovation Advisory Council (PMSTIAC).

    Important updates in DOM:

    • Samudrayaan and Matsya6000:
      • Launched in 2021 under DOM, Samudrayaan is India’s flagship crewed expedition to reach a depth of 6,000 m in the Central Indian Ocean.
      • The mission will utilize Matsya6000, a deep-ocean submersible designed for a three-member crew.
        • Construction: Made from titanium alloy to endure pressures up to 6,000 bar.

    India’s Ocean Exploration Milestones:

    • 1981: Ocean studies began with a program on polymetallic nodules (PMN) initiated at CSIR-NIO, marked by the collection of the first nodule sample from the Arabian Sea aboard the research vessel Gaveshani.
    • 1987: India became the first country to receive Pioneer Investor status from the International Seabed Authority (ISA).
      • Allocated 1.5 lakh km² in the Central Indian Ocean Basin (CIOB) for nodule exploration, based on extensive surveys by CSIR-NIO.
    • 2002: India signed a contract with the ISA; after resource analysis, surrendered 50% of the allotted area, retaining 75,000 km².
    • Further studies narrowed the mining area to 18,000 km², identified as the First Generation Mine-site.

     

    PYQ:

    [2021] Consider the following statements:

    1. The Global Ocean Commission grants licences for seabed exploration and mining in international waters.
    2. India has received licences for seabed mineral exploration in international waters
    3. ‘Rare earth minerals’ are present on the seafloor in international waters.

    Which of the statements given above are correct?

    (a) 1 and 2 only
    (b) 2 and 3 only
    (c) 1 and 3 only
    (d) 1, 2 and 3

  • [pib] DAE-Homi Bhabha Chair Scheme

    Why in the News?

    The DAE—Homi Bhabha Chair for Distinguished Scientists/Professors was launched in 2021 by the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE).

    About DAE – Homi Bhabha Chair Scheme

    Details
    Aims and Objectives
    • To recognize outstanding contributions by scientists, including retired professionals, in atomic energy and related technologies.
    • Allow retired professionals to continue research aligned with the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE).
    • Focus on research in sensitive atomic energy technologies, benefiting strategic sectors.
    Provisions and Features
    • Honorarium: Rs. 200,000 per month (capped at last drawn salary).
    • Contingency Grant: Rs. 76,000 per year for secretarial assistance, telephone bills, etc.
    • Equipment and Book Allowance: Rs. 1,25,000 for equipment and Rs. 10,000 for books.
    • Transport Allowance: Fixed monthly transport allowance for those without an official vehicle.
    Structural Mandate and Implementation
    • Eligibility: Open to distinguished scientists, including retirees involved in critical atomic technologies.
    • Tenure: 1 to 5 years, decided by a Selection Committee.
    • Implementation: Administered by DAE, providing research support and necessary infrastructure.
    Present Challenges
    • Financial Constraints: Budget limitations can affect the scale of research.
    • Integration of New Technologies: Adapting to the fast-changing technological landscape poses challenges.
    • Coordination across Stakeholders: Bureaucratic delays and communication issues can arise.

     

    Who was Homi Bhabha?

    The DAE—Homi Bhabha Chair for Distinguished Scientists/Professors was launched in 2021 by the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE).

    • Homi Jehangir Bhabha (1909–1966) was a pioneering Indian physicist and the father of India’s nuclear programme.
    • He founded the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR) in 1945 and the Atomic Energy Establishment, Trombay (later Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, BARC) in 1954.
    • Bhabha formulated India’s three-stage nuclear power programme in the 1950s and emphasized nuclear power for military and energy purposes.
    • He was the first Indian to receive the Adams Prize in 1942 and served as the President of the UN Conference on Peaceful Uses of Atomic Energy in 1955.
    • Bhabha activated Apsara, Asia’s first research reactor, at BARC in 1956, and was awarded the Padma Bhushan in 1954.

     

    PYQ:

    [2015] Indira Gandhi Peace Prize for Peace, Disarmament and Development for 2014 was given to which of the following?

    (a) Bhabha Atomic Research Centre

    (b) Indian Institute of Science

    (c) Indian Space Research Organization

    (d) Tata Institute of Fundamental Research

  • Deepening India’s steps as a key space-faring nation

    Why in the News?

    India has set ambitious objectives for its space programme over the next two decades, focusing on the development of powerful, reusable rockets like the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)’s upcoming Next Generation Launch Vehicle (NGLV).

    What are the recent achievements of India’s space program?

    • Chandrayaan-3 Mission: India successfully achieved a soft landing near the lunar south pole with its Chandrayaan-3 mission, marking a historic milestone as the fourth country to do so. This mission demonstrated India’s growing technological capabilities in space exploration.
    • Aditya L1 Mission: Launched as India’s first space-based solar observatory, Aditya L1 aims to study the outer atmosphere of the Sun, contributing valuable data to solar science.
    • Gaganyaan Preparations: ISRO is actively working on the Gaganyaan mission, which aims to send Indian astronauts into orbit by 2025. This includes extensive testing of human-rated launch vehicles and crew escape systems.
    • Budget Increases: The Indian government allocated approximately $1.5 billion to the Department of Space for 2024-2025, reflecting a commitment to enhance space capabilities and infrastructure.

    How is India planning to expand its human spaceflight and exploration capabilities?

    • Gaganyaan Mission: This mission is pivotal for establishing India’s human spaceflight capabilities, with plans for multiple uncrewed test flights leading up to a manned mission. The first crewed flight is targeted for late 2024.
    • Lunar Exploration Goals: India plans to achieve a crewed lunar landing by 2040 and establish a lunar space station to facilitate ongoing research and exploration efforts on the Moon.
    • Bharatiya Antariksha Station: The establishment of India’s first space station in low Earth orbit is planned by 2035, serving as a platform for scientific research and technology testing.
    • Next Generation Launch Vehicle (NGLV): The development of the NGLV will enhance India’s heavy-lift capabilities, crucial for supporting human missions and larger payloads in future explorations.

    What role does international collaboration play in India’s space ambitions?

    • Commercial Partnerships: India has engaged in collaborations with international companies like SpaceX for satellite launches, showcasing an openness to leveraging foreign technology and expertise in its space endeavours.
    • Foreign Direct Investment (FDI): Recent reforms have opened up India’s space sector to increased foreign investment, fostering partnerships that can enhance technological capabilities and innovation within the domestic industry.
    • Collaborative Research and Development: By exploring foreign collaboration opportunities, Indian corporations can access advanced rocket technologies and expertise that may not currently exist within the country, accelerating development timelines for projects like reusable rockets.

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthen Private Sector Engagement: India should actively encourage partnerships with domestic and international private companies to accelerate the development of advanced space technologies, such as reusable rockets and heavy-lift vehicles, ensuring a competitive edge in global space exploration.
    • Expand International Collaborations: India should deepen its space collaborations with countries and space agencies globally, particularly in research, technology sharing, and joint missions, to leverage global expertise and enhance its own space capabilities.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q India has achieved remarkable successes in unmanned space missions including the Chandrayaan and Mars Orbiter Mission, but has not ventured into manned space mission. What are the main obstacles to launching a manned space mission, both in terms of technology and logistics? Examine critically. (UPSC IAS/2017)

  • [pib] National AYUSH Mission (NAM)

    Why in the News?

    • The National AYUSH Mission (NAM) is an important Centrally Sponsored Scheme aimed at promoting and developing the AYUSH systems of medicine across the country.
      • In addition to NAM, Central Sector Schemes like the AYURSWASTHYA Yojana and the AYURGYAN Scheme play a crucial role in advancing the mission’s objectives

    About AYURGYAN and AYURSWATHYA Scheme

    Details
    AYURSWASTHYA Yojana • Under the Ministry of AYUSH to promote AYUSH healthcare and education.
    • Has two key components:

    1. AYUSH and Public Health: Promotes AYUSH interventions for community health care.
    2. Upgradation of Facilities to Centre of Excellence: Improves standards of AYUSH medical units and establishes advanced centers in AYUSH and Allopathic institutions (both Govt. and Private).

    • Funding: Maximum assistance of ₹10 crore for Centre of Excellence upgrades for 3 years.
    AYURGYAN Scheme • Created by merging two schemes under one umbrella.
    • Focuses on promoting AYUSH education and research.
    • Aims to develop quality standards and expand AYUSH education and healthcare services across India.
    • Training of healthcare professionals in AYUSH and supporting research initiatives to improve efficacy and standards of traditional medicine.

    Back2Basics: National AYUSH Mission (NAM)

    Category Details
    Overview   • Launched in September 2014 under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare during the 12th Five Year Plan.
    • Aimed at promoting and strengthening traditional systems of medicine: AYUSH (Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, Homeopathy).
    • Focuses on improving healthcare infrastructure in rural and remote areas, enhancing access to AYUSH services and promoting holistic health across India.
    Implementation and Structure • Initially implemented by the Department of AYUSH, now under the Ministry of AYUSH for nationwide execution.
    • Works in partnership with States and UTs to address healthcare gaps in underserved areas.
    Provisions under NAM • Promotion of AYUSH Systems: Integrates AYUSH into the mainstream healthcare system, especially in rural and underserved areas.
    • Support to State/UTs: Provides financial support for establishing AYUSH dispensaries, clinics, colleges and hospitals.
    • Strengthening AYUSH Health Services: Financial assistance for expanding AYUSH services, especially in remote areas.
    • Research & Development (R&D): Supports research for developing better treatments and standardizing practices in AYUSH.

    PYQ:

    [2019] How is the Government of India protecting traditional knowledge of medicine from patenting by pharmaceutical companies?

  • Major Atmospheric Cherenkov Experiment (MACE) Telescope

    Why in the News?

    The Major Atmospheric Cherenkov Experiment (MACE) telescope was inaugurated on October 4th in Hanle, Ladakh.

    About MACE Telescope:

    Details
    Details and Working • World’s highest imaging Cherenkov telescope, located in Hanle, Ladakh, at 4.3 km above sea level.
    • It has a 21-meter-wide mirror-dish, the largest in Asia.
    • Developed by Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC), Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR), Electronics Corporation of India Ltd. (ECIL), and Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA).
    • Cherenkov radiation is captured using mirrors and analyzed with photomultiplier tubes (PMTs). Cherenkov radiation is the blue glow emitted when charged particles travel faster than light in a medium.
    • Equipped with a high-resolution camera and movable base.
    Aims and Objectives of MACE • Detects high-energy gamma rays (greater than 20 giga-electron volts) emitted by cosmic phenomena.
    • Detect Weakly Interacting Massive Particles (WIMPs) for dark matter research.
    • Contribute to multi-messenger astronomy by complementing data from other telescopes.
    How Do Gamma Rays Work in DNA Mutation? • Cause ionization, which can break chemical bonds in DNA, leading to mutations.
    • Mutations may result in cancers or genetic disorders if not repaired.
    • DNA damage from gamma rays can lead to chromosomal aberrations and contribute to carcinogenesis.

     

    PYQ:

    [2015] In the context of modern scientific research, consider the following statements about ‘IceCube’, a particle detector located at South Pole, which was recently in the news:

    1. It is the world’s largest neutrino detector, encompassing a cubic kilometre of ice.
    2. It is a powerful telescope to search for dark matter.
    3. It is buried deep in the ice.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 and 3 only

    (c) 1 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

  • [pib] India’s First Indigenous Antibiotic: Nafithromycin

    Why in the News?

    The Ministry of Science & Technology has launched Nafithromycin, India’s first indigenous antibiotic to combat drug-resistant infections.

    About Nafithromycin:

    Details
    About • It was developed with the support of the Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC), a unit under the Department of Biotechnology, to combat antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
    • It aims to treat Community-Acquired Bacterial Pneumonia (CABP) caused by drug-resistant bacteria.
    ( Awaiting final approval from CDSCO for manufacturing and public use.)
    Features   • Developed over 14 years of clinical trials in the U.S., Europe, and India.
    • 10 times more effective than azithromycin. (3 doses to combat Drug-Resistant Pneumonia)
    • Minimal side effects, no significant drug interactions, and food-independent.
    Significance   • It targets both typical and atypical pathogens.
    • It addresses a global health issue, especially CABP, contributing to over 2 million deaths annually.
    • Offers a more effective, faster, and safer treatment for drug-resistant pneumonia.
    • Demonstrates successful public-private collaboration between the government and Wockhardt Pharmaceuticals.
    • A cost-effective solution for treating resistant infections in low-resource settings.

     

    PYQ:

    [2019] Which of the following are the reasons for the occurrence of multi-drug resistance in microbial pathogens in India?

    1. Genetic predisposition of some people
    2. Taking incorrect doses of antibiotics to cure diseases
    3. Using antibiotics in livestock farming
    4. Multiple chronic diseases in some people

    Select the correct answer using the code given below.

    (a) 1 and 2
    (b) 2 and 3 only
    (c) 1, 3 and 4
    (d) 2, 3 and 4

  • [pib] Postage Stamp released on Sickle Cell Eradication – 2047

    Why in the News?

    Madhya Pradesh marked a significant milestone in public health by unveiling a commemorative postage stamp dedicated to the Sickle Cell Eradication – 2047 initiative.

    What is the Sickle Cell Disease (SCD)?

    • SCD is a genetic disorder where red blood cells take a crescent shape, impairing circulation and causing complications like anaemia, organ damage, pain episodes, and a shortened lifespan.
      • It predominantly affects marginalized tribal populations.
    • Symptoms: Common symptoms include chronic anaemia, painful episodes (sickle cell crisis), and delayed growth and puberty.
    • Treatment: Treatments include blood transfusions, hydroxyurea to reduce pain episodes, and gene therapy or stem cell transplantation for long-term management.
    • India’s Mission:
      • Union Budget 2023-24 announced a mission to eradicate sickle cell anaemia by 2047, focusing on awareness and screening for individuals aged 0-40.
      • Anaemia Mukt Bharat Strategy: It provides bi weekly iron Folic acid supplementation to all under five children through ASHA workers.

    What are the key facts about the Sickle Cell Eradication – 2047 Initiative?

    Details
    Aims and Objectives • Complete eradication of sickle cell anemia by 2047.
    • Awareness and screening in tribal communities.
    • Accessible diagnosis and treatment, with tools like HPLC.
    • Genetic counseling for prevention.
    • Technology-driven monitoring via mobile app and National Sickle Cell Portal.
    Features of the Program • Newborn screening and prenatal diagnostics at AIIMS Bhopal.
    • Nationwide expansion to 17 states by 2047.
    • Advanced testing with HPLC machines.
    • Community engagement through support groups and education.
    Implementation   • Collaborations with institutions like AIIMS Bhopal, Sankalp India, and healthcare providers.
    • Phased rollout starting with high-prevalence regions in Madhya Pradesh.
    • Government funding for infrastructure and tech development.
    • Digital technology for data collection and case management.

     

    PYQ:

    [2023] Consider the following statements in the context of interventions being undertaken under the Anemia Mukt Bharat Strategy :

    1. It provides prophylactic calcium supplementation for pre-school children, adolescents and pregnant women.
    2. It runs a campaign for delayed cord clamping at the time of child-birth.
    3. It provides for periodic deworming to children and adolescents.
    4. It addresses non-nutritional causes of anaemia in endemic pockets with special focus on malaria, hemoglobinopathies and fluorosis.

    How many of the statements given above are correct?

    (a) Only one
    (b) Only two
    (c) Only three
    (d) All four

  • First ‘Black Hole Triple’ System Discovered

    Scientists have discovered a “black hole triple” in space, marking the first time such a system has been identified.

    Why in the News?

    Scientists have discovered a “black hole triple” in space, marking the first time such a system has been identified.

    Black Hole Triple: What does it mean?

    • Many black holes are found in binary systems with another star or black hole.
    • This triple system includes two stars orbiting a black hole:
      • The nearer star orbits the black hole every 6.5 days.
      • The distant star orbits approximately every 70,000 years.
    • The system, located in the constellation Cygnus, features V404 Cygni, one of the oldest black holes known, which is nine times larger than the Sun.
    • It is 8,000 light years away from Earth.

    What is a Black Hole?

    • A black hole is a space region with such strong gravity that no light or matter can escape.
    • Most black holes form from supernova explosions—the death of massive stars.
    • This triple system suggests an alternative, less violent formation process.

    How was it discovered?

    • Researchers from Caltech and MIT discovered the system while reviewing astronomical data from telescopes.
    • They described the stars as being gravitationally bound, indicating they form a triple system.
    • It is believed that  V404 Cygni did not form through a supernova explosion, which typically ejects outer stars.
    • Instead, it likely formed through direct collapse: the star collapsed inward without exploding.
    • Known as a “failed supernova”, this process causes an implosion without expelling matter, leading to a gentler black hole formation.

    Future of the Triple System

    • The triple system may not remain as such, as V404 Cygni is consuming the nearby star.
    • This discovery suggests that some existing binary systems may have originally been triple systems, where the black hole later consumed one of its members.

    PYQ:

    [2019] Recently, scientists observed the merger of giant ‘blackholes’ billions of light-years away from the Earth. What is the significance of this observation?

    (a) ‘Higgs boson particles’ were detected.
    (b) ‘Gravitational waves’ were detected.
    (c) Possibility of inter-galactic space travel through ‘wormhole’ was confirmed.
    (d) It enabled the scientists to understand ‘singularity’

  • Moonlight Programme

    Why in the News?

    The European Space Agency (ESA) launched its Moonlight Lunar Communications and Navigation Services (LCNS) Programme.

    About Moonlight Programme

    Details
    Agency European Space Agency (ESA)
    Purpose To establish a communications and navigation infrastructure around the Moon to support future lunar missions by space agencies and private companies.
    Planned Missions Supports over 400 moon missions planned over the next 20 years.
    Satellite Constellation Deployment of 5 lunar satellites to provide communication and navigation services.
    Data Transfer Range Enables data transfer between Earth and the Moon over a distance of 400,000 km.
    First Satellite Lunar Pathfinder, a communications relay satellite built by Surrey Satellite Technology Ltd, is set to launch in 2026.
    Operational Timeline Initial services expected to begin by 2028, with full operational capability by 2030.
    Primary Focus Area Coverage around the Moon’s South Pole, an area of high interest due to favorable lighting conditions and potential water ice presence in permanently shadowed craters.
    Global Collaboration Collaboration with NASA and JAXA (Japanese Space Agency) as part of LunaNet for standardizing lunar mission communications and navigation.
    Significance – Enables over 400 lunar missions
    – Supports NASA’s Artemis programme
    – Provides continuous all-weather connectivity for lunar missions
    – Focuses on the South Pole for ice deposits
    – Reduces costs by sharing infrastructure
    – Technological advancements for Mars missions (MARCONI)
    Strategic Advantage Enhances ESA’s role in global lunar exploration and contributes to the future of commercial lunar activities.

  • What is Wayanad’s new X-band Radar?

    Why in the News?

    After the floods and landslides in Wayanad in July 2024, the Union Ministry of Earth Sciences approved the installation of an “X-band radar” in the district.

    What is an X-Band Radar?

    • An X-band radar is a type of radar that operates in the 8-12 GHz frequency range of the electromagnetic spectrum, with wavelengths of 2-4 cm.
    • This radar is particularly useful for detecting smaller particles like raindrops, fog, and other fine materials due to its shorter wavelengths, which allow for higher resolution images.

    Key Features of X-Band Radar:

    • High Resolution: The shorter wavelength provides more detailed images, making it ideal for tracking weather phenomena, including precipitation and particle movements.
    • Limited Range: They have a relatively shorter range compared to other types like S-band radars because higher frequency signals get attenuated (weakened) faster as they travel through the atmosphere.

    Applications: In weather forecasting, X-band radars are used for short-range weather monitoring, such as predicting rainfall intensity and landslides. They are also used in air traffic control and military applications.

    What is a Doppler Radar?  

    • A Doppler radar is a type of radar used primarily in meteorology to measure the velocity and movement of weather formations, such as clouds and storms.
    • It works on the principle of the Doppler effect, which refers to the change in frequency of waves as their source moves relative to the observer.

    It’s applications: 

    • Velocity Measurement: By measuring these changes in frequency, Doppler radar can determine how fast the object (e.g., rain cloud) is moving and in which direction.
    • Weather Monitoring: Doppler radar helps in tracking rainfall intensity, detecting wind patterns, and predicting the formation of storms or tornadoes.

    India’s Radar Network

    • The India Meteorological Department (IMD) began using radars in weather applications in the 1950s.
      • The first indigenously designed X-band storm detection radar was installed in 1970 in New Delhi.
    • In 1996, the IMD replaced 10 outdated X-band radars with digital X-band radars.
    • India’s radar network includes both wind-finding and storm-detecting X-band radars. The country also uses S-band radars (2-4 GHz) for long-range detection. The first S-band cyclone detection radar was installed in Visakhapatnam in 1970.

    Recent Developments:

    • In September 2024, the Ministry of Earth Sciences announced that India would install 56 additional Doppler radars over the next few years.
    • On September 11, 2024, the Union Cabinet approved the ₹2,000-crore ‘Mission Mausam’, which aims to upgrade meteorological infrastructure, including the installation of up to 60 radars by 2026.
    • The Wayanad radar initiative also includes the installation of a C-band radar (4-8 GHz) in Mangaluru, with an observational range of 250 km.

    About the NISAR

    • NISAR, short for NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar, is a joint satellite mission being developed by NASA and ISRO.
    • NISAR will use radar imaging to create a high-resolution map of the earth’s landmasses, tracking changes in natural processes.
    • Its payload consists of an L-band radar (1.25 GHz, 24 cm) built by NASA and an S-band radar (3.2 GHz, 9.3 cm) built by ISRO.
    • NISAR is expected to launch in 2025 aboard an ISRO GSLV Mk II rocket, with a total cost of $1.5 billion, primarily funded by NASA.

     

    PYQ:

    [2016] Discuss India’s achievements in the field of Space Science and Technology. How the application of this technology has helped India in its socio-economic development?